Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessments are often seen as straightforward evaluations of a property’s energy efficiency. However, many homeowners and landlords are caught off guard when their EPC rating is lower than expected. One of the most common yet overlooked culprits is unseen thermal bridging—a hidden pathway for heat loss that can drastically reduce a building’s efficiency score.
At EPCrate, we specialize in identifying these subtle inefficiencies that could be silently compromising your EPC results.
What is Thermal Bridging?
Thermal bridging occurs when materials with high thermal conductivity, such as steel or concrete, bypass insulation layers, creating direct heat-loss paths. These “bridges” allow heat to escape much faster than the surrounding insulated areas, significantly impacting the overall energy efficiency of the building.
While some thermal bridges are visible (like exposed steel beams), others are hidden within wall junctions, floor connections, or architectural details—making them difficult to detect during standard EPC visual surveys.
Why Does Thermal Bridging Impact EPC Ratings?
Increased Heat Loss: Thermal bridges reduce the effectiveness of insulation, raising the U-values of building elements.
Default Penalty Values: If specific thermal bridging details are not provided, EPC software applies conservative default PSI (thermal bridge) values, which can drag down your rating.
Condensation Risks: Thermal bridges create cold spots that attract moisture, leading to mould and long-term structural damage.
Missed During Visual Inspections: Without proper documentation or thermal imaging, unseen thermal bridges often go unnoticed by assessors.
Common Areas of Unseen Thermal Bridging:
Floor-to-wall junctions
Wall-to-roof interfaces
Structural steel or concrete beams within insulated cavities
Window and door lintels without thermal breaks
Cantilevered balconies and projections
How to Prevent EPC Failures Due to Thermal Bridging
At EPCrate, we recommend proactive measures to mitigate the effects of thermal bridging on your EPC assessment:
Provide Accredited Construction Details (ACDs): These are predefined building junction details that show minimal thermal bridging, helping to avoid software-imposed default penalties.
Use Thermal Imaging Before Assessment: This helps to locate hidden bridges, so remedial actions can be planned ahead of the EPC.
Retrofit Insulation at Junctions: Ensure that junctions and bridging areas are properly insulated and sealed.
Install Thermal Break Materials: Use non-conductive inserts at key structural connections to interrupt heat pathways.
Book an EPC Assessment with EPCrate
Don’t let hidden thermal bridges compromise your EPC score. Our expert assessors will guide you through pre-assessment strategies to ensure every detail is accounted for. You can book an EPC assessment here or view our transparent pricing plans.
For bespoke advice on thermal bridging and advanced EPC evaluations, contact EPCrate today.
