Thermal break technology, the game-changer in energy-efficient construction

Is fenestration an often overlooked entity? Ajay Balakrishna of Schon Doorways discusses why fenestration should not be seen as merely decorative and how thermal break technology is reshaping fenestration systems to achieve energy efficiency.

In today’s world, where people prioritise greener living, energy efficiency is no longer a choice but a requirement. Architects are in constant pursuit of transforming buildings into sustainable options, and fenestration systems (facades, windows, and doors) are at the centre of this revolution. “Thermal break technology” is a key innovation in this revolution that enhances insulation and aids in energy savings to a large extent.

What is thermal break technology?
Suppose you are sipping coffee from a double-walled mug. The heat remains inside your drink, and your hands remain cool. This is largely what the thermal break technology accomplishes in aluminium doors and windows. Aluminium is a good conductor of heat. Thermal breaks, often made from non-conductive materials, are added between aluminium systems’ interior and exterior frames to interrupt/break this heat transfer. This interruption results inbetter insulation, reduced heating and cooling costs, and increased indoor comfort all year round.

Why it matters?
Inefficient fenestration systems can result in almost 25–30 percent energy loss in buildings. Thermal break systems address this issue and keep the interiors warm during winter and cool during summer without overloading the HVAC systems. The technology helps save operating expenses in the long term and is a major game-changer for architects and developers looking for green building certification.

Design challenges
Although thermal break systems largely influence building performance, their application raises structural integrity and design accuracy issues.Installing non-metallic barriers in an aluminum frame is a delicate process. When not done properly, it can weaken frame strength, impair its rigidity, or cause expansion problems due to temperature fluctuations. Another crucial aspect is the design factor, which calls for a skillful approach to preserving ultra-skinny profiles and wide spans without sacrificing effective thermal insulation. Any discrepancy in the manufacture or installation may undermine the system’s airtightness and energy efficiency. This balancing act is further compounded in large architectural projects that require visual sophistication and good performance.

The need for a collaborative approach
How to incorporate ultra-skinny profiles and broad spans without compromising thermal insulation. Architects and engineers must collaborate and develop new solutions, frequently opting for hybrid materials, customised thermal breaks, and cutting-edge simulation software to subject proposed designs to durability and performance testing. The aim is to create a structure that is not only energy-efficient but also visually striking, safe, and durable. This is where architectural ingenuity and material science intersect! Schon Doorways meets this harmony by applying high-quality polyamide strips to our thermal break systems, renowned for strength, durability, and superior insulating abilities. Combining German-designed precision and thorough testing, our systems are created to hold up against challenging environmental conditions without compromising design or functionality.

As the demand for sustainable architecture grows, thermal break technology will become increasingly important. Whether a residential tower or commercial space, a well-designed and integrated fenestration system can have a significant effect—not just on utility bills but on the planet as a whole.

For more details, visit: https://www.theschon.com/