Thermal modelling is the analysis of how heat moves through a facade or building envelope, calculating U-values, thermal bridging at junctions, and condensation risk. Sovereign Facade Engineering Consultants Ltd produces thermal modelling to BS EN ISO standards to demonstrate Approved Document L compliance and design out performance problems.
Thermal modelling assesses how a facade performs thermally and identifies the risks that simple calculations miss. Sovereign models U-values, thermal bridging at junctions and interfaces, and condensation risk, giving design and compliance teams the evidence they need for Approved Document L and the building's wider energy strategy.
What Thermal Modelling Involves
U-value Calculations
U-value calculations for curtain wall, rainscreen, glazing, and opaque panel assemblies, accounting for frame, glass, spacer, and fixing effects.
Thermal Bridging Analysis
Thermal bridging analysis using two- and three-dimensional modelling of junctions and interfaces to quantify linear thermal transmittance and identify weak points.
Condensation Risk Assessment
Condensation risk assessment covering surface and interstitial condensation, to identify where moisture risk arises and how to design it out.
Compliance Support
Compliance support, providing the thermal evidence required for Approved Document L and for the building's energy performance modelling.
Standards & Experience
Thermal modelling at Sovereign follows BS EN ISO 6946, BS EN ISO 10211 for thermal bridging, and BS EN ISO 13788 for condensation risk, supporting compliance with Approved Document L of the UK Building Regulations. Where insulated panels are used in curtain walling, particular attention is paid to edge thermal bridging, a known cause of real-world performance falling short of design values.
This service supports architects demonstrating Part L compliance, facade contractors substantiating the thermal performance of their system, developers managing energy performance targets, and design teams resolving condensation or thermal bridging concerns on a specific detail.
Our team has delivered facade thermal and performance analysis across commercial, healthcare, and residential schemes internationally, through our associated facade production company, including large unitised and semi-unitised curtain wall systems where edge and junction performance is critical.
Need thermal performance modelled?
Send your details and we will respond within 48 hours with scope, timeline, and a fixed fee.
Thermal bridging occurs where a more conductive element, such as a metal frame or fixing, creates a path for heat to bypass the insulation. In facade systems, poorly detailed junctions can lose significantly more heat than the headline U-value suggests, and can cause condensation and mould. Detailed analysis quantifies these effects so they can be designed out.
For most non-domestic and many residential projects, demonstrating Approved Document L compliance requires accurate U-values and consideration of thermal bridging. Thermal modelling provides this evidence in a form that supports the building's energy calculations and Building Control submission.