Thermal Bridge

Thermal Bridge at Wall-Ceiling Junction Near Window

Thermal imaging reveals a significant cold spot at the wall-ceiling junction, indicating a potential thermal bridge or insulation gap.

Thermal image showing a distinct cold spot in the top corner of a room where the wall meets the ceiling near a window.

This thermal image displays a pronounced area of low surface temperature (dark purple and black) located at the internal corner where two walls meet the ceiling. The cold pattern extends down towards the adjacent window reveal, contrasting sharply with the warmer surrounding interior surfaces.

Technical insight

The dark area in this thermal image highlights a region of significantly lower surface temperature, commonly known as a cold spot. This typically occurs at structural junctions, such as where external walls meet the ceiling, creating a geometric thermal bridge. Heat escapes more rapidly through these areas, lowering the internal surface temperature. When warm, moisture-laden air indoors comes into contact with these cold surfaces, it increases the risk of localised condensation and subsequent mould growth. Remediation often involves targeted insulation upgrades to ensure continuity of the thermal envelope and minimising draughts through improved airtightness detailing.

Likely cause

Possible missing or slumped insulation within the wall cavity or adjacent roof space. Likely exacerbated by geometric thermal bridging at the structural corner and potential air leakage around the window perimeter.

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