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Thermal envelope continuity is essential to ensure a dwelling house is thermal bridge free - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 9 - 2019
Question 9
Thermal envelope continuity is essential to ensure a dwelling house is thermal bridge free. The drawing shows an outline section through the external door of a singl... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Thermal envelope continuity is essential to ensure a dwelling house is thermal bridge free - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 9 - 2019
Step 1
a) Best practice design detailing that will prevent the formation of a thermal bridge at each location.
Answer
To prevent the formation of thermal bridges at the locations indicated:
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External Door: Use a thermal break within the door frame and ensure that the surrounding wall has continuous insulation. The external door should align with the insulated boundary to minimize temperature differential. An insulated reveal can be added around the door to enhance this.
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Cavity Wall Junction: Ensure that insulation is continuous across the cavity wall and that there are no gaps. Consider the use of insulated cavity ties to maintain thermal separation between the inner and outer walls.
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Roof Connection: At the junction of the roof and wall, insulated parapets can be employed. The roof insulation should extend down the wall to ensure continuity of insulation, preventing cold bridging at the junction.
Each of these measures actively reduces localized heat loss, enhancing the overall thermal efficiency of the building.
Step 2
b) Discuss two negative impacts of thermal bridging as a result of poor design detailing.
Answer
Thermal bridging can have significant negative impacts:
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Mold Growth: Cold surfaces resulting from thermal bridging can lead to condensation, creating damp conditions favorable for mold growth. Mold can then infiltrate the air supply, posing health risks to occupants and requiring costly remediation efforts.
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Increased Energy Costs: Areas of thermal bridging lead to higher energy demands for heating, as the building's overall thermal efficiency is compromised. This escalates energy bills, with significant implications for sustainability and comfort within the living space.