A thermal bridge is rarely a single line on a drawing. It is usually a place where insulation, airtightness, geometry, and installation responsibility cease to function as one continuous system.
| Condition | What It Means | Typical Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| Geometric Thermal Bridge | Corners, parapets, balconies, and changes in form increase local heat flow. | Lower internal surface temperatures and increased heat loss. |
| Material Thermal Bridge | A thermally conductive element interrupts the insulation layer. | Concentrated heat flow through concrete, steel, or fixings. |
| Installation Discontinuity | Insulation or the air barrier is interrupted because of installation quality. | Cold areas, condensation risk, and unpredictable structural performance. |
| Window Junction | The frame position and reveal insulation are not coordinated. | Cold reveals, draughts, and a risk of mould. |
| Roof and Floor Edge | The envelope changes direction without a properly developed overlap of layers. | Linear heat loss and concealed defects that are difficult to detect. |
Review the structure, insulation, air barrier, waterproofing, and finishes together.
Trace the insulation and airtight layer across the drawing without lifting the pen.
Confirm that the junction can actually be built, inspected, and repaired.
Use calculations, thermal imaging, or temperature measurements where necessary.
Retain approved drawings and photographs of concealed junctions in the project passport.
REN-002 preserves a shared engineering language for future projects.