Thermal losses of buildings and freezing of structures: causes, consequences, methods of diagnosis and elimination
With the onset of cold weather, owners of commercial and residential real estate can often face an unpleasant situation: walls, floors or roofs freeze, the microclimate is disturbed in the premises, cold air flows appear or condensation forms on the surfaces altogether.
Thermal losses of buildings are one of the key problems affecting the comfort of living, durability of structures and heating costs. Heat leaks through walls, windows, roofs and other enclosing structures lead to increased energy consumption and possible freezing of building elements.
In this article, we will look at what heat loss is, cold bridges, causes and consequences of freezing, control methods and regulations governing these issues.
What kind of heat leaks can occur in buildings
Heat loss
Heat loss is the leakage of thermal energy from a building into the environment through enclosing structures. They occur due to temperature differences inside and outside the building and can significantly increase heating costs during cold periods.
The main types of heat loss:
Through walls, windows, doors: the main source of heat leaks. Non-insulated or poorly insulated structures allow more heat to pass through.
Through the roof and floors: poor-quality insulation in these areas also contributes to leaks.
Through ventilation and leaks: cracks and gaps in window and door openings increase heat loss, as does a ventilation system without heat recovery.
The main causes of heat loss are associated with insufficient thermal insulation and design errors:
Insufficient thickness of thermal insulation: the thickness of the insulation does not match the climatic conditions of the region.
Damage to thermal insulation materials: mechanical damage or natural wear of the insulation leads to a decrease in its effectiveness.
Poor installation quality: leaks in windows, doors, roof, seams and joints.
Lack of protection from cold bridges: incorrect location or insufficient insulation of metal elements.
Poor sealing: gaps and cracks in the structure lead to direct heat leaks.
Bridges of cold
Cold bridges are sections of the structure through which significant heat leakage occurs compared to the rest of the fence surface. These zones may occur due to uneven thermal insulation or the use of materials with high thermal conductivity.
Examples of cold bridges:
Connections of walls and ceilings.
Seams between windows and walls.
Metal elements (beams, fasteners) passing through insulated areas.
The corners of the building.
The main reasons for the appearance of cold bridges:
Improper insulation of joints and seams between building elements.
The use of materials with high thermal conductivity (for example, metal structures).
Violation of the insulation technology during installation.
The presence of load-bearing structures passing through insulated walls (beams, columns).
Consequences of cold bridges:
A decrease in temperature on the surface of the inner walls, which can cause condensation.
Increased humidity and mold development on the interior surfaces.
Increased heating costs due to heat leakage.
The main reasons for the formation of heat leaks
The heat loss of a building is due to several factors, including thermal conductivity of materials, structural features of the building, the presence of cracks and cracks, air convection and radiation losses. An extended description of the factors affecting the heat loss of a building, taking into account technical standards, includes the following:
1. Thermal conductivity of materials
The materials used in building enclosing structures (such as walls, roof, windows and doors) may have different thermal conductivity coefficients. The higher the thermal conductivity coefficient of the material, the higher the heat loss through it. For example, concrete and glass have a relatively high thermal conductivity, which makes buildings with such structures more susceptible to heat loss.
2. Structural features of the building
The shape and architectural features of a building can also affect its heat loss. For example, buildings with more corners and projections may have more places to form cold bridges and increase heat loss. Technical standards, such as building codes and energy efficiency standards, determine the optimal shapes and design solutions to minimize heat loss.
3. The presence of cracks and crevices
Good sealing and sealing of enclosing structures play a key role in preventing heat loss. Technical standards define the requirements for sealing joints and joints in order to avoid air penetration and minimize heat loss through cracks and crevices.
4. Air convection
Air convection inside the building also contributes to heat loss. For example, warm indoor air can rise and exit through holes in the roof or through ventilation openings, increasing heat loss. Technical standards include requirements for ventilation systems and air flow control to optimize energy consumption.
5. Radiation losses
The surfaces of the building also radiate heat into the surrounding space. This can lead to heat loss, especially in low temperature conditions. Technical standards may include requirements for the selection of materials with low radiation heat transfer capacity to minimize these losses.
Consequences of thermal losses and freezing of structures
1. Increased heating costs
One of the main consequences of heat loss is an increase in the cost of maintaining a comfortable room temperature. When heat escapes through the enclosing structures (walls, roofs, windows), heating systems are forced to work with increased load to compensate for these losses. This leads to:
An increase in energy consumption: an increase in the volume of gas, electricity or other fuels for heating.
Increased utility bills: higher heating bills due to insufficient energy efficiency of the building.
2. Condensation and excessive humidity
Condensate is formed when warm air from inside the room comes into contact with the cold surface of the enclosing structures, the temperature of which is below the dew point. In places where heat leaks occur, the temperature on the surface of walls, ceilings or windows may be low enough for condensation to occur.
The main effects of condensation:
The appearance of mold and mildew: constant humidity creates ideal conditions for the development of fungi, mold and bacteria. This is especially dangerous for the health of residents, as mold can cause allergic reactions, respiratory diseases and other problems.
Damage to finishing materials: humidity can lead to the destruction of decorative coatings such as wallpaper, plaster, as well as damage to furniture and wooden structures.
Humidification of thermal insulation: wet thermal insulation loses its properties, which exacerbates heat loss and creates a vicious circle: the more humidity, the higher the heat loss, and vice versa.
3. Freezing of structures
Freezing occurs when external enclosing structures (walls, roofs, floors) are insufficiently protected from low temperatures. As a result, the temperature inside the structure drops below the freezing point, which can cause a number of destructive effects.
Consequences of freezing:
Frosty swelling of materials: water located in the pores of building materials (concrete, brick, mortar) expands during freezing, which leads to cracking and destruction of the structure. Such cycles of freezing and thawing are especially dangerous for the load-bearing elements of the building.
Peeling of finishing materials: paint, plaster and other finishing materials can chip off or peel off walls and other surfaces.
Reduced structural strength: Repeated freezing cycles can weaken load-bearing walls and other important building elements, which leads to a deterioration in their performance and an increased risk of accidents.
4. Deformations and structural damage
With repeated freezing and thawing of structures, deformations and structural damage may occur:
Cracks in walls and ceilings: Cyclic expansion and compression of materials can lead to the appearance of small cracks, which may increase over time, resulting in damage to the structure.
Corrosion of metal elements: if metal elements (beams, fittings) are present in the structure, then there is a risk of corrosion during freezing and high humidity, which weakens the bearing capacity of the building.
Deformation of windows and doors: changing the size and shape of materials under the influence of temperature fluctuations can lead to deformation of window and door frames, deterioration of their tightness and, as a result, further heat leaks.
5. Reduced indoor comfort
Thermal losses directly affect the comfort level of residents. The uneven distribution of heat throughout the building leads to:
Drafts: drafts can be felt in places of heat leaks, which makes the premises less comfortable to live in.
Temperature differences in different zones: due to poor insulation, individual areas in the house can remain cold even with the heating system running.
Low surface temperature: cold walls and floors create discomfort for residents, especially in winter.
6. Deterioration of the microclimate
Heat loss and freezing have a negative effect on the indoor climate:
Humidity problems: insufficient insulation leads to a decrease in the temperature of the wall surfaces, which contributes to increased humidity in the room. High humidity can be uncomfortable and dangerous to health.
Insufficient ventilation: Heat leaks are often accompanied by poor ventilation, which leads to stagnation of air, increased concentration of carbon dioxide and general deterioration of air quality.
7. Environmental impacts
Due to the increase in energy consumption to maintain a comfortable temperature, greenhouse gas emissions are increasing, which exacerbates the negative impact on the environment. This makes the problem of thermal losses not only economic, but also environmental.
Methods of combating heat loss and freezing of structures
To effectively combat heat loss and freezing of structures, it is necessary to take comprehensive measures, including improving thermal insulation, eliminating cold bridges, sealing, using modern technologies and compliance with regulatory requirements.
1. Insulation of enclosing structures
One of the most effective ways to combat heat loss is to insulate the building’s enclosing structures, such as walls, roof, floors and foundation. This helps to significantly reduce heat loss and prevent freezing of building elements.
The main methods of insulation:
Insulation of exterior walls:
Hinged ventilated facades: a system with thermal insulation plates (mineral wool, expanded polystyrene) is installed on the wall, on top of which a protective layer is mounted.
Wet facade: the insulation is glued to the wall surface, and then covered with a plaster layer.
Insulation of roofs and attics:
The roof must be insulated using mineral wool, expanded polystyrene or polyurethane. The insulation of the attic floor helps to prevent heat leakage through the top of the building.
Floor and foundation insulation:
The insulation of the ground floor floor prevents heat loss through the ground. Styrofoam or mineral wool is most often used.
Foundation insulation is especially important in regions with a cold climate, as it protects the foundation from freezing and destruction.
2. Elimination of cold bridges
Cold bridges are areas with increased thermal conductivity through which significant heat leakage occurs. The elimination of these problem areas requires the use of special methods and materials.
Methods of dealing with cold bridges:
Thermal insulation of joints and corners: the corners of the building, as well as joints between walls and ceilings, require additional insulation. For this purpose, special insulating tapes, polyurethane foam or mineral wool are used.
Insulation of metal elements: if metal beams, columns or fasteners are present in the structure, they must be wrapped with insulating materials to prevent heat leakage.
Use of thermal profiles: modern window and door structures are equipped with thermal profiles that prevent the formation of cold bridges in the installation areas of windows and doors.
3. Sealing of seams and joints
Cracks and gaps in window and door openings, as well as in joints between walls and ceilings, can become sources of significant heat loss. Sealing these areas is a mandatory step in the process of improving the energy efficiency of a building.
Sealing methods:
Use of mounting foam: Mounting foam is used to seal cracks and joints between window and door frames and walls.
Sealing with insulating tapes: Special self-adhesive insulating tapes are used to seal windows and doors, providing additional protection against heat leaks.
Application of elastic sealants: elastic sealants are used to seal joints between building elements, which retain their properties when temperatures change.
4. Improving the thermal characteristics of windows and doors
Windows and doors are one of the main sources of heat loss. The installation of energy-saving windows and doors can significantly reduce heat leakage and improve the overall indoor climate.
Recommendations for choosing windows and doors:
Installation of multi-chamber double-glazed windows: modern windows with two- or three-chamber double-glazed windows have better thermal insulation properties than single-chamber structures.
The use of low-emission glasses: such glasses have a special coating that reduces heat loss by reflecting thermal radiation back into the room.
The use of thermally fractured plastic window profiles: thermally fractured profiles prevent the formation of cold bridges, which increases the energy efficiency of window systems.
Installation of insulated doors: doors with insulated panels and sealed seals significantly reduce heat loss through the entrance areas.
5. Use of heat recovery systems
The recovery system reduces heat loss through the ventilation system by using the heat of the exhaust air to heat the supply air.
Advantages of recovery systems:
Reduced energy consumption: recuperators reduce heat loss through ventilation ducts by up to 90%, which significantly reduces heating costs.
Provision of fresh air: The recuperation system maintains a constant supply of fresh air without significant heat loss.
Maintaining a stable microclimate: thanks to recuperation, a comfortable temperature and humidity are maintained in the room.
6. Elimination of condensation and protection from moisture
Condensation can cause heat loss and structural damage. To combat condensation, it is important to control the humidity and temperature in the room, as well as improve ventilation.
Methods of condensate elimination:
Improved ventilation: the installation of exhaust ventilation systems helps to remove excess moisture from the room.
The use of vapor barrier materials: the use of vapor barrier films and membranes in structures prevents the penetration of moisture into the insulation and structural elements.
Wall temperature control: The installation of additional thermal insulation helps to keep the temperature of the walls above the dew point, which prevents condensation.
7. The use of modern thermal insulation materials
Modern thermal insulation materials have high thermal engineering characteristics and durability, which makes it possible to effectively combat heat loss and freezing.
The most effective materials:
Mineral wool: has low thermal conductivity, good sound insulation properties and fire resistance.
Extruded polystyrene foam (XPS): A lightweight, moisture-resistant material that is used to insulate foundations, walls and roofs.
Polyurethane foam: one of the best thermal insulation materials with minimal thermal conductivity. It is used for insulation of complex and hard-to-reach structures by spraying.
8. Compliance with building codes and standards
In order for methods of combating heat loss to be effective, it is important to comply with building codes and standards governing the thermal characteristics of buildings.
Basic standards:
SP 50.13330.2012 (“Thermal protection of buildings”): regulates the requirements for thermal insulation of enclosing structures, calculation of heat loss and methods of insulation.
GOST R 54851-2011: regulates methods of heat loss control, including using thermal imaging examination.
9. Thermal imaging examination and diagnostics
To accurately determine the heat loss zones and cold bridges, it is recommended to conduct a thermal imaging examination. This method allows you to visually see problem areas and effectively plan work to eliminate them.
Advantages of thermal imaging examination:
Accurate identification of problems: the thermal imager shows areas with increased heat leakage, which allows you to purposefully solve problems.
Cost optimization: diagnostics helps to identify the most problematic areas, which avoids unnecessary costs for insulation where it is not required.
Methods of diagnostics of heat loss of buildings and freezing of structures
Diagnostics of heat loss and freezing of structures allows you to identify problem areas of the building that require repair or modernization. There are several modern diagnostic methods that help to accurately assess the level of heat loss and prevent structural failure.
1. Thermal imaging examination
Thermal imaging is one of the most effective methods of diagnosing heat loss. Using a thermal imager, it is possible to visualize heat leakage zones and identify problems with thermal insulation and cold bridges.
Advantages of thermal imaging examination:
Accurate visualization of problem areas: the thermal imager displays areas with increased heat loss on the screen as a thermographic image.
Fast detection of cold bridges: helps to find hidden cold bridges that cannot be detected visually.
Detection of structural defects: the thermal imager detects defects in the joints of walls, window and door openings, roofing structures and foundations.
How is the thermal imaging examination performed?:
The equipment is adjusted to a certain temperature range.
The external and internal surfaces of the building are scanned, where temperature anomalies are recorded.
The analysis of the results helps to make a heat loss map and a work plan to eliminate them.
2. Differential pressure method (Blower Door Test)
The Blower Door Test (pressure method or leak test) allows you to identify leaky places in the building’s enclosing structures through which heat leaks.
The principle of operation:
A special fan with a sealed frame is installed in the door or window.
The fan creates a vacuum or overpressure inside the building.
With the help of sensors, the volume of air entering through cracks and leaky areas of the building is measured.
Advantages of the Blower Door Test:
High accuracy of leak detection: the test helps to detect even the most insignificant cracks and defects in tightness.
Heat loss reduction: By detecting leaks, sealing measures can be taken and heat loss through windows, doors and joints can be reduced.
Energy efficiency: The method helps to assess the overall tightness of a building, which is important for determining its energy efficiency.
3. Heat flow method (thermometry)
The heat flow method is based on measuring the temperature difference between the inner and outer surfaces of enclosing structures using heat flow sensors.
How it works:
Thermometers or special heat flow sensors are installed on the surface of walls or other structures.
Sensors record the surface temperature and help calculate how effectively a building retains heat.
The analysis of the data obtained allows us to assess where the greatest heat losses are observed and determine how well the thermal insulation is performed.
Advantages of the method:
Ease of use: the sensors can be installed in any area of the building, which makes the method universal.
Accurate assessment of heat loss: not only the temperature is measured, but also the actual heat flow through the enclosing structures.
Instant result: measurement results can be obtained in real time and analysis can be started immediately.
4. Contact and non-contact thermometers
The use of contact and non-contact thermometers allows point-to-point temperature measurements in different parts of the building.
Application:
Contact thermometers: applied to the surface of walls, floors, windows to measure temperature.
Non-contact infrared thermometers: used for remote temperature measurement, which is convenient for hard-to-reach places.
Advantages:
Efficiency: temperature measurement can be carried out quickly and anywhere in the building.
Accessibility: the devices are affordable and do not require complicated equipment.
Determination of freezing zones: thermometers help to identify places where the temperature of the structure falls below the dew point, which leads to freezing.
5. Full-scale testing method (humidity and temperature sensors)
This method consists in installing specialized sensors that measure temperature and humidity indicators inside the building structures.
Process:
Humidity and temperature sensors are installed inside walls or other structural elements.
Sensors collect data for a certain time (in winter or during transitional periods of the year).
The data obtained are analyzed to identify areas with high humidity and low temperatures, which indicates freezing or insufficient thermal insulation.
Advantages of the method:
Accurate diagnosis of the condition of the structure: allows you to identify not only heat loss, but also places prone to moisture accumulation.
Long-term monitoring: Sensors can remain in the structure for a long time, providing data for continuous monitoring.
6. Thermal modeling and computer simulation
Thermal modeling is a computer method that allows simulations of thermal processes in a building, evaluating the behavior of heat flows and identifying potential heat leakage zones.
How it works:
A digital model of the building is being created, including all enclosing structures, materials and systems.
The model is analyzed taking into account the climatic conditions of the region and the operational characteristics of the building.
A computer simulation shows where problems with thermal conductivity arise and how to change the design to improve energy efficiency.
Advantages:
Forecasting: modeling allows not only to identify existing problems, but also to predict potential heat losses at the design stage.
Comprehensive analysis: the simulation takes into account the interaction of various structural elements of the building and climatic factors.
7. Infiltration test (Smoke Test)
This method is used to identify leakages using smoke or steam.
Process:
Smoke or steam is supplied inside the room (for example, from a smoke machine).
The smoke moves through air leaks in the enclosing structures, which allows you to visually see the leaky areas.
This method helps to quickly detect problem areas in window and door openings, wall joints, roofs and other structures.
Advantages:
Visual visibility: Helps to instantly detect even minor air leaks.
Ease of use: the method does not require complex equipment, a smoke generator and a fan are sufficient.
8. Acoustic diagnostics
Acoustic diagnostics consists in detecting defects and heat leaks using sound waves.
How it works:
Sound waves are passed through the building’s enclosing structures.
Special sensors detect changes in the frequency and amplitude of sound, which indicate the presence of voids or defects in the structure through which heat leaks.
Advantages:
High accuracy: the method allows you to detect hidden defects that are not visible during visual inspection.
Diagnostics in complex structures: the method is effective for the diagnosis of multilayer structures and hidden cavities.
Standards and norms
In Russia, the thermal characteristics of buildings and energy saving standards are regulated by a number of standards and regulations. The main ones are:
SP 50.13330.2012 (“Thermal protection of buildings”) is the main standard governing the requirements for thermal engineering characteristics of enclosing structures, calculation of heat loss and methods of thermal insulation.
GOST R 54851-2011 is a standard that establishes methods of thermal imaging control of enclosing structures.
These normative documents set criteria for the insulation of buildings, acceptable values of heat loss and methods of their measurement, which allows for an optimal level of energy saving and comfortable living conditions.
The main document is SP 50.13330.2012 (“Thermal protection of buildings”). The main provisions of this standard:
Determination of thermal characteristics of enclosing structures.
Consideration of the influence of climatic conditions on heat loss.
Thermal insulation requirements for various types of buildings and structures.
Regulations and international standards, such as ISO 6946 and ISO 10211, regulating methods for calculating thermal resistance and diagnostics of cold bridges are also significant.
Results
Thermal losses of buildings and freezing of structures are a serious problem that can significantly affect the energy efficiency of a building, its operational characteristics and living comfort. To minimize heat leaks, it is necessary to properly insulate structures, eliminate cold bridges and comply with building regulations. It is also important to carry out regular inspections using modern diagnostic methods in order to identify and eliminate deficiencies in time.
Thermal losses and freezing of structures are not only a matter of energy efficiency, but also a key factor affecting the durability of a building and the health of residents. Timely detection and elimination of heat leaks will help reduce heating costs, avoid structural damage, improve the indoor microclimate and increase the overall comfort of living.
Effective diagnostics of heat loss and freezing of structures allows not only to identify problems with thermal insulation and tightness, but also to prevent serious consequences such as structural failure, increased heating costs and deterioration of the microclimate. The use of thermal imaging surveys, leak tests, infiltration tests and other diagnostic methods allows you to accurately identify problem areas and develop a plan to eliminate them, ensuring the durability and energy efficiency of the building.
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