This investigation seeks to quantify the effects of thermal bridging in commercial facades and then propose alternative solutions to improve performance. Utilizing infrared images
taken from targeted assemblies at 15 recently completed buildings; we have determined the actual performance and R-values of a range of façade types and conditions. We
have compared these fi gures with the theoretical R-values calculated using materials specifications to quantify
the discrepancy between theoretical design and actual performance. Although several insulation assemblies performed well without thermal bridging losses, complete assemblies were typically in the order of 50% less effective
than the theoretical model. In certain complex assemblies, the research identified facades with as much as a 70% reduction in effective R-value.
