______________________________________________________________________________________ Modular
Construction the overall cost-effectiveness of modular buildings. Not only do these challenges create immediate concerns for individual projects, but they also raise broader questions about the long-term sustainability and resilience of modern construction. If left unaddressed, thermal bridging could undermine the very benefits that make modular construction so appealing- efficiency, speed, and sustainability.
As modular construction continues its rapid expansion, so too does the need for innovative materials and smarter construction techniques to ensure long-term performance. The industry is seeing a shift towards solutions that not only improve energy efficiency but also futureproof buildings against changing climate conditions and evolving regulatory standards. With sustainability becoming a top priority for developers, architects, and policymakers alike, addressing thermal bridging will be critical to maintaining the reputation of modular buildings as a forward-thinking, eco-friendly alternative to traditional construction.
In any construction, integrating effective thermal breaks is vital for enhancing energy efficiency. These materials, designed with low thermal conductivity, act as barriers to disrupt continuous heat flow, significantly reducing thermal transfer. Solutions like those from Armatherm can be seamlessly incorporated into the steel framework of modular buildings to minimise thermal bridging. The FRR structural thermal break material combines excellent thermal insulation with high compressive strength and has been successfully implemented in numerous structural steel connections, effectively transferring load in both moment and shear conditions.
Ultimately, while modular construction delivers notable advantages in efficiency, speed, and sustainability, addressing thermal bridging is key to optimising these benefits. Thermal breaks play an essential role in preserving energy performance, reducing heat loss, and preventing issues like condensation and material degradation. By prioritising advanced thermal break solutions alongside precision in design and installation, modular construction can continue to set new standards for high-performance, energy-efficient buildings. ■
Armatherm™ www. armatherm. com
Armatherm™ is one of the leading suppliers of structural thermal break materials for the construction industry. Armatherm™ thermal bridging solutions can be used anywhere a penetration or transition exists in a building envelope creating a thermal bridge. Armatherm™ structural thermal break materials minimise heat loss at balcony, canopy, parapet, masonry shelf angle, cast in situ and cladding connections.
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