Careful design detailing is necessary in order to design a building envelope which is free of thermal/cold bridges. The drawing shows an outline section through a single storey house having a 350 mm external concrete block wall with an insulated cavity. The ground floor is an insulated solid concrete floor. (a) Select any three locations from those circled on the sketch, and show clearly, using notes and annotated freehand sketches, the typical design detailing which will prevent the formation of thermal bridges at each location selected. (b) Discuss in detail two advantages of designing a building envelope which is free of thermal bridges.

Leaving Cert Construction Studies Heat Loss & Insulation: Careful design detailing is nece

Careful design detailing is necessary in order to design a building envelope which is free of thermal/cold bridges - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 9 - 2011

Question 9

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Careful design detailing is necessary in order to design a building envelope which is free of thermal/cold bridges. The drawing shows an outline section through a si... show full transcript

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Careful design detailing is necessary in order to design a building envelope which is free of thermal/cold bridges - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 9 - 2011

Step 1

Select any three locations from those circled on the sketch, and show clearly, using notes and annotated freehand sketches, the typical design detailing which will prevent the formation of thermal bridges at each location selected.

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Answer

Location 1: The Window Sill
- Design Detail: Incorporate a property cavity closer made of high-density fireproof insulation. This should be positioned to eliminate thermal bridging.
- Notes: Ensure that all gaps are sealed using a flexible sealant to maintain air tightness.
Location 2: The Wall Plate
- Design Detail: Use a proprietary cavity closer or block of high-density fireproof insulation at the junction of the wall plate and external wall.
- Notes: Ensure that the gap between wall plate and eaves vent is completely filled with insulation to avoid any heat loss.
Location 3: The Floor Junction
- Design Detail: Ensure that perimeter insulation with a minimum R-value of 0.75 m²/KW is installed.
- Notes: All junctions must be sealed with a flexible sealant or tape to maintain air tightness.

Step 2

Discuss in detail two advantages of designing a building envelope which is free of thermal bridges.

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Answer

Enhanced Energy Efficiency
Designing a building envelope without thermal bridges prevents heat loss through critical junctions. This leads to significant savings in heating costs and reduces the overall energy demand of the structure.
Improved Indoor Comfort and Air Quality
A building that minimizes thermal bridging maintains a more consistent indoor temperature. This reduces the risk of condensation, preventing dampness and growth of mold. Furthermore, a stable thermal environment contributes to overall occupant comfort and a healthier living space.

Careful design detailing is necessary in order to design a building envelope which is free of thermal/cold bridges - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 9 - 2011

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Careful design detailing is necessary in order to design a building envelope which is free of thermal/cold bridges - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 9 - 2011

Select any three locations from those circled on the sketch, and show clearly, using notes and annotated freehand sketches, the typical design detailing which will prevent the formation of thermal bridges at each location selected.

Discuss in detail two advantages of designing a building envelope which is free of thermal bridges.

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