How to prevent the formation of thermal bridges?

16.10.2025 Ivan Landa

Imagine living in a house that is warm in winter and pleasantly cool in summer, without drafts, damp corners or unpleasant mould. This is an ideal, but it is easily disrupted by so-called thermal bridges. These are places where heat escapes from the house without us noticing it at first glance. In this article, we will explain how thermal bridges arise, why they can damage the structure of the house, worsen the quality of living and increase heating costs. And above all, we will show you how to effectively prevent them during construction or renovation.

What are thermal bridges and why should we pay attention to them?

A thermal bridge is a place in the structure where heat transfer is increased compared to the surrounding parts of the building envelope. Simply put, heat escapes through this place more easily than it should.

Thermal bridges cause:

• Higher heating or cooling costs
• The formation of moisture and mold
• Reduced thermal comfort in the interior
• Gradual degradation of building structures

Prevention of thermal bridges is essential for an economical, healthy and long-term sustainable home.

How are thermal bridges divided?

In order to prevent thermal bridges, it is necessary to understand where and how they arise:

Material and structural bridges

Material thermal bridges are caused by the penetration of a material with high thermal conductivity through the insulation (e.g. a steel beam in the insulation). Structural thermal bridges arise due to the different thermal insulation properties of the materials used in the structure (e.g. a thick layer of mortar between ceramic blocks).

Geometric bridges

These bridges arise where the shape of the structure changes. For example, in the corners of buildings, where the external area increases compared to the internal area. This change in geometry leads to a local increase in heat loss, because the thermal insulation is narrowed or disrupted.

Point and line bridges

Point and line bridges refer to thermal bridges in buildings where heat escapes. Point bridges appear in small places, for example when anchoring insulation or in places where dowels are used. Line bridges, on the other hand, occur along the entire length of the structure. Typically, the connection between the floor and the perimeter wall or the transition between the roof and the wall.

Even small thermal bridges can have a big impact on the overall energy balance of the house.

Where do thermal bridges most often appear?

Thermal bridges occur mainly where different structures meet or where there is no continuous insulation.

Focus especially on these places:

• Connections of walls to ceilings, floors and roof
• Around windows, doors, linings and window sills
• Balconies, loggias and consoles
• Installation and anchor penetrations
• Insufficiently insulated places during the reconstruction of older buildings

It is precisely in these details that the biggest problem often lies.

How to prevent thermal bridges?

Thoughtful design and project preparation

Think about every detail already in the project phase:

• Evaluate critical points, transitions, penetrations and connections of structures.
• Choose the appropriate thickness and type of insulation according to the nature of the building.
• Design the structure so that a continuous layer of thermal insulation is maintained.

Correct choice of materials

• Use materials with low thermal conductivity.
• In places where there must be a structural connection, such as balcony anchoring, use special elements that interrupt heat transfer.
• Ensure precise connection of the insulation without gaps and joints.

High-quality construction

• Carry out work with emphasis on airtightness and an uninterrupted insulation layer.
• Carefully check every detail, especially around windows, doors, corners and connections.
• After completion of construction, perform a thermal imaging inspection to detect any heat leaks.

Maintenance and inspection in operation

• Monitor the occurrence of cold spots, moisture or mold.
• When renovating older buildings, evaluate the current solution and modify it if necessary.

How to solve critical points?

Windows and doors

Ensure that the frame is properly insulated and the connection between the structure and the insulation is smooth. Don't forget to insulate the window sills as well.

Wall and floor connection

Make sure that the insulation of the foundation part is a seamless connection to the insulation of the walls.

Balconies and consoles

These elements often represent a weak point in the structure. Use special load-bearing elements that interrupt the heat transfer between the interior and exterior.

Anchoring facade systems

Choose high-quality anchoring elements and systems that minimize the formation of point bridges.

Why is it worth removing thermal bridges?

By removing or reducing thermal bridges, you will gain several advantages:

• Lower heating and cooling costs
• More pleasant indoor environment without cold corners
• Less risk of moisture and mold
• Longer service life of the structure
• Better energy balance of the building

Preventing thermal bridges means thinking about the building as a whole, from the project to the selection of materials to the implementation itself. Properly designed and implemented insulation can save you energy, extend the life of the building and increase the comfort of your living space.

If you are building or renovating and want to be sure that your structure will be free of thermal bridges, contact us. We will be happy to help you choose the right solution, advise on the details, and ensure that your building will be economical and healthy.