Thermal Analysis of the Building Envelope
To achieve good sustainability in our buildings we need to consider heating, ventilation, solar gain, building use, choice of materials and building form, amongst others. Very good thermal separation between inside and outside is necessary to obtain the required internal conditions and optimum energy efficiency. To achieve this, we must avoid thermal bridging through the wall construction.
A thermal bridge is a part of the structure of lower thermal resistance that bridges adjacent parts of higher thermal resistance, and which can result in localised cold surfaces on which condensation, mould growth and/or pattern staining can occur. Not assessing the risks could lead to inappropriate construction techniques, and an inadequate protection will result in financial and energy losses over the life of the building. It could also compromise the health and safety of its occupants.
Patrick Ryan Associates have expertise in the field of thermal analysis and have been working closely with clients, architects, and contractors to achieve very low thermal transmission for the building facades on our projects. In doing so we can also ensure that there is no surface condensation and minimise thermal bridging at the junctions. See example of a moderately efficient window system above with no risk of condensation.