Concept of Thermal Bridging in Wood Framed Construction

Thermal bridging through wood framing accounts for significant energy loss in an insulated wood-framed wall assembly. The Model Energy Code has been silent on thermal bridging in wood-framed construction and instead has focused on the R-value of the insulation within the wall cavity. For the first time, the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) will now require continuous insulation as a part of the wood-framed wall requirements in colder climates. A common solution to this requirement is to place a layer of rigid foam insulation on the exterior of the wall assembly; however, the code allows for alternative methods, providing an opportunity for innovation.