How can thermal bridging be avoided in masonry construction?

Thermal bridging occurs when a material that has a high thermal conductivity, such as steel or concrete, creates a pathway for heat to flow through a building envelope, leading to energy inefficiency. One of the most effective ways to mitigate thermal bridging in masonry construction is by strategically placing insulation.

Insulation can be applied in various forms, such as continuous insulation on the exterior or interior of walls, to create a thermal barrier around the structure. This helps to break the direct contact between interior and exterior materials, reducing heat transfer and improving the overall thermal performance of the building. By ensuring that the insulation is correctly placed in areas that are prone to thermal bridging, such as around windows, doors, and at junctions between different materials, the thermal efficiency of the masonry structure can be significantly enhanced.

While other options might seem relevant at first glance, they do not effectively address thermal bridging in the same way. Using thicker materials may not necessarily prevent thermal bridging, as the materials themselves could still provide a pathway for heat. Removing structural supports could compromise the integrity of the building and is not a practical solution. Eliminating mortar joints may help in specific instances but is usually not feasible or effective in traditional masonry construction and does not address the overall issue of thermal bridging.