Minimizing thermal bridging through window systems in buildings of hot regions

This paper is concerned with minimizing thermal bridging through typical window systems in buildings of hot regions. The present approach is based on an integrated 3D dynamic simulation. The theoretical background of the adopted approach is presented. The reliability of this approach in evaluating thermal bridges as well as its applicability to different geometric shapes is proved. It is found that the thermal bridging through typical window systems is significant and should be taken into account in buildings design. Applicable construction for window systems are proposed to minimize thermal bridging in the buildings of hot regions. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.