Armatherm

Thermal bridges are highly conductive structural elements that create heat transfer between the exterior and interior of the building thermal envelope. Thermal bridging occurs through any material that is more conductive than the insulation surrounding it. The conductive heat transfer due to thermal bridging has been recognized as a considerable factor in building envelope heat loss.

Thermal bridging through steel and concrete structures can therefore have a significant impact on a building’s energy performance. Thermal bridging can reduce the R value of a wall assembly by as much as 50% by interrupting continuous insulation. Reducing heat flow through a building’s thermal envelope reduces energy consumption as well as potential condensation issues. To achieve higher R values, thermal bridging and air leakage must be minimized.

As early as 2006, many European countries had already instituted improved energy rating systems for new buildings to better control and reduce domestic energy consumption. Nearly 10 years ago, in response to an EU initiative to improve the energy performance of buildings even further, Armadillo Ltd. developed its first thermal break material, Armatherm™ to prevent heat loss due to thermal bridging.

Since 2011, drawing on Armadillo Ltd.’s experience, Armatherm™ has been working with architects and structural engineers in North America to improve building design details and reduce heat loss due to thermal bridging within the building thermal envelope.

Mission et stratégie environnementale (ESG)

Armatherm™ Minimize Energy Loss and Improve Building Envelope Performance

Associations:

• U.S. GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is committed to transforming the way our buildings are designed, constructed and operated through LEED — the top third-party verification system for sustainable structures around the world.

• RCI

RCI, Inc. is an international nonprofit association of professionals who specialize in roofing, waterproofing, and exterior wall specification and design. From sprayed polyurethane foam to cedar shakes, from parking garages to air barriers, RCI has a member expert for every type of roof, exterior wall, or waterproofing issue in the world today.

• AISC

The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), headquartered in Chicago, is a not-for-profit technical institute and trade association established in 1921 to serve the structural steel design community and construction industry in the United States.

• NIBS

The National Institute of Building Sciences was authorized by the U.S. Congress in the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, Public Law 93-383. In establishing the Institute, Congress recognized the need for an organization that could serve as an interface between government and the private sector.

• CANADA GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL

The Canada Green Building Council is a not-for-profit, national organization that has been working since 2002 to advance green building and sustainable community development practices in Canada.