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In the context of skylights, thermal breaks are essential components that significantly enhance energy performance and help buildings meet increasingly stringent regulations. Modern skylights like our fixed flat rooflights use these innovations to maximise efficiency.
Understanding Thermal Breaks in Skylights
Thermal breaks utilise materials like polyamide, a glass fibre-reinforced plastic, to create a barrier between the internal and external sections of aluminium skylight frames. This innovation addresses one of aluminium’s primary drawbacks – its high thermal conductivity – while maintaining the material’s benefits of strength, durability, and lightweight construction.
The framework of modern skylights incorporates polyamide insulating sections that are precision-fitted into the aluminium extrusion and rolled together. This process ensures a robust and durable structure while maintaining the crucial separation between internal and external aluminium components.
Key Benefits of Thermally Broken Skylights
| Feature | Thermally Broken Skylights | Non-Thermally Broken Skylights |
|---|---|---|
| U-Value Performance | Achieves 1.7 W/m²K in horizontal plane (meeting Future Homes Standard 2025) | Typically 2.6-3.0 W/m²K, failing to meet current regulations |
| Frame Construction | Double run of polyamide insulating sections within aluminium frame, creating complete thermal barrier | Single aluminum frame with no insulation barrier; direct thermal bridging |
| Condensation Resistance | Advanced thermal break prevents condensation by maintaining consistent surface temperature | Prone to condensation formation where humid air meets cold aluminum surface |
| Weather Protection | Integrated drainage channels and thermal break prevent water ingress; tested for cyclone winds and driven rain | Basic silicone seal protection; susceptible to water ingress over time |
| Building Regulations | Fully compliant with Part L 2022 and Future Homes Standard 2025; BSI Kitemarked | Often fails to meet current Part L requirements; typically lacking certification |
| Energy Bills Impact | Reduced heating costs through superior insulation; up to 30% energy savings | Higher energy costs due to heat loss; significant thermal bridging |
| Manufacturing | UK-manufactured with ISO 9001:2015 certification; fully tested to BSI standards | Often imported; varying manufacturing standards and limited quality control |
| Long-term Value | Higher initial investment offset by energy savings and durability; future-proofed for regulations | Lower initial cost but higher running costs; may require replacement to meet future regulations |
Real-World Application: Thermally Broken Skylights in Action
See how Sunsquare’s thermally broken Aero Electric Roof Access Rooflights are seamlessly integrated into Leeds’ Climate Innovation District. Watch the video below to explore their role in enhancing sustainable design through advanced daylighting and energy-efficient performance.
Enhanced Energy Efficiency
By minimising heat transfer through the frame, thermally broken skylights help maintain consistent indoor temperatures. The thermal break creates an effective barrier that prevents heat from escaping during cold winter months and reduces heat gain during summer. This natural temperature regulation significantly reduces the need for additional heating in winter and cooling in summer, leading to lower energy consumption and reduced utility costs.
Condensation Prevention
In spaces with high humidity, such as kitchens and bathrooms, thermal breaks prevent cold bridging – the process where humid air contacts cold aluminium surfaces and forms water droplets. Without proper thermal breaking, these spaces are particularly vulnerable to condensation issues that can lead to mould growth, deterioration of surrounding materials, and potential health concerns. The thermal break maintains the internal surface temperature above the dew point, effectively preventing condensation formation.
Regulatory Compliance
The June 2022 amendments to Part L of the Building Regulations in England reflect the growing emphasis on energy efficiency in construction. These regulations represent a significant step forward in building performance standards:
The updated regulations mandate a 31% reduction in CO₂ emissions for new dwellings, setting a new benchmark for residential construction. This substantial reduction requires careful consideration of every building component, including skylights.
For other buildings, the required 27% reduction in emissions has pushed manufacturers to innovate and improve their products’ thermal performance. The specific requirements include:
Maximum U-values of 2.2 W/m²K for rooflights when assessed in the horizontal plane, ensuring consistent performance standards across installations.
The notional building specification uses an improved rooflight U-value of 1.7 W/m²K, demonstrating the industry’s push toward even better thermal performance.
"For our recent Mayfair townhouse project, achieving both exquisite aesthetics and cutting-edge thermal performance was paramount. In the master suite, we incorporated a large, bespoke SkyView unit above the bathing area. The polyamide sections within the aluminium frame, were crucial in meeting, and indeed surpassing, the new Part L regulations. The minimal sightlines and superior insulation ensured a flood of natural light without compromising the thermal envelope of the space. It created a truly luxurious, spa-like atmosphere, while cleverly avoiding any condensation issues. Specifying thermally broken skylights is no longer optional, it's essential. Sunsquare's SkyView provided the perfect marriage of form and function for this discerning project."
Future Homes Standard 2025
The upcoming Future Homes Standard represents a paradigm shift in building efficiency requirements. Set for implementation in 2025, this standard will fundamentally change how we approach building design and construction:
The mandate for 75-80% fewer carbon emissions compared to current standards is driving innovation across the construction industry. This ambitious target requires a holistic approach to building design, with every component contributing to overall performance.
Superior building fabric performance has become non-negotiable, with heightened focus on the building envelope’s ability to maintain consistent internal conditions. This includes enhanced insulation throughout the building fabric and particular attention to potential weak points such as skylights and other openings.
The emphasis on airtightness has led to advanced sealing techniques and improved installation methods, ensuring that thermally broken skylights maintain their performance over time.
High-performance fenestration solutions, including advanced skylight designs, are becoming increasingly sophisticated to meet these demanding standards.
Advanced Features and Technologies
Modern skylight technology has evolved significantly, with advanced pyramid designs and triple glazing now leading the way in thermal efficiency. These units excel in extreme climates and, when combined with Low-E coatings, create a sophisticated thermal mirror effect that reflects interior heat while maintaining optimal light transmission. Argon gas-filled cavities between panes further enhance insulation performance, working alongside these coatings to create an exceptional thermal barrier. The latest innovation, electrochromic smart glass, dynamically adjusts its opacity to optimise both light and heat management throughout the day.
Installation and Assessment
Proper installation is crucial for thermal performance, with regulations now requiring specific orientation considerations. Kerb-mounted skylights must undergo horizontal U-value assessment, while in-plane roof windows require vertical assessment. This precision, backed by mandatory photographic evidence and on-site audits, ensures real-world performance matches laboratory specifications.
Climate Resilience
Today’s thermally broken skylights, like high-performance pyramid structures, are engineered for unprecedented weather resilience. Their sophisticated drainage systems and reinforced frames ensure protection against extreme conditions – from heavy rainfall to snow loads – while maintaining optimal thermal performance. For larger installations, multi-pane systems provide extended coverage without compromising efficiency. Enhanced UV protection and intelligent solar control features work in harmony to shield interiors from excessive heat gain and radiation damage, making these systems particularly well-suited to our changing climate patterns.
Buyer’s Guide
The market now sees terms like “thermally managed” in product descriptions, but buyers should note this differs from true thermal breaking technology. Look for BSI Kitemark certification and verified U-value ratings that exceed current Building Regulations, ensuring future compliance. Weather testing documentation should demonstrate performance under extreme conditions.
Smart Integration
Modern skylights increasingly interface with building management systems, using environmental sensors to automate ventilation and light levels. This smart integration creates a synchronised approach to climate control, maximising energy efficiency through coordinated operation with other building systems.
Installation Best Practises
Success relies on maintaining continuous insulation throughout the assembly. Professional installation should include thermal imaging verification and strict adherence to manufacturer specifications. Regular installer training and certification programmes help maintain these high standards across the industry.
Stay Informed and Inspired
Download Our Comprehensive Building Regulations Whitepaper
Written specifically for architects, surveyors, and home improvers, our detailed whitepaper provides invaluable insights into UK building regulations and their practical applications. Download it now to ensure your projects meet all current and upcoming standards.
Get Inspired
Still in the inspiration phase of your project? Follow us on Instagram to spark your creativity and see how our thermally broken skylights are transforming spaces across the country.
Our gallery showcases the latest installations and innovative applications that might be perfect for your next project.
Have questions about implementing thermally broken skylights in your project? Our expert team is ready to help you make the right choice for your specific needs. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and find the perfect skylight solution.
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