Analysis of the Influence of External Wall Material Type on the Thermal Bridge at the Window-to-Wall Interface

Abstract

Background: Although many works focus on increasing the energy efficiency of buildings, there are still a number of problems that need to be solved, such as reducing heat losses at the window-to-wall interface, especially since the requirements for saving energy used for heating/cooling rooms are constantly increasing. This paper analyses the impact of the material parameters of the external wall and the window installation in the insulation layer on the size of thermal bridges around the window. Purpose: The aim of the work is to demonstrate the benefits resulting from the correct installation of the window, the appropriate location of the window in relation to the face of the external wall, as well as the correct selection of construction materials. Methodology: In order to show the improvement in the energy efficiency of buildings, an analysis of the heating/cooling energy consumption was carried out for the selected buildings. The thermal and humidity analyses were carried out using TRISCO program, while the economic analysis was performed using the Audytor OZC program. Results: It was found that the proposed system of window installation in the thermal insulation layer reduced the annual heating demand by at least 10% on average. Conclusions: It has been shown that the method of window installation and the type of the wall structural materials are interrelated and therefore should be considered simultaneously. Their proper selection allows for a reduction in the amount of energy needed for heating and cooling buildings, and thus a reduction of heating/cooling costs, as well as limiting greenhouse gas emissions.