Thermal Break Technology

A thermal break or thermal barrier is a material of low thermal conductivity placed in an assembly to reduce or prevent the flow of thermal energy between conductive materials.

When it comes to windows and doors. A thermal break or thermal barrier is essentially a break in a conductive material with a material of low thermal conductivity stopping the conduction of heat across the system.

This technology is important when it comes to framing systems as it separates the frame into two separate interior and exterior pieces joined with a less conductive material which reduces temperature transfer across the framing system.

The concept is similar to that of a double or triple glazed unit; creating a thermal barrier against heat loss by introducing a low conductive material to the system makeup. In insulated glass panels such as double glazing, this is a gas filling and spacer bars. In framing this is a ‘thermal break’.

For useable, warm environments a thermally broken system to all external framing is a must. Aside from the relevant Uf values (see ‘What is a U Value?’ ) required by modern building regulations, using a non-thermally broken framework in a space can lead to freezing of the internal framing in colder months and condensation build up internally on the cold metal surfaces which can then lead to mould and damp on internal surfaces such as real wood flooring and curtains.

A thermal break in metal framing creates a thermal barrier against heat loss meaning that the internal framing section will not be as cold as the frame exposed to the external elements.

These thermal breaks are generally made of a substantially rigid, low thermal conductive polyamide or polyurethane material, which are naturally good thermal barriers. The thermal break material is then mechanically locked in aluminium window framing to create a thermally broken system.

Modern thermal break technology greatly increases the thermal performance of glass systems, ensuring internal space remain warm and comfortable all year round and maintain the energy efficiency of a space.

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Originally published at technical.iqglassuk.com.