Thermally Broken Lintels

When calculating junction heat losses in SAP to establish building regulation compliance, using default psi values for open back cavity lintels with a base plate penalises the performance of the dwelling and typically requires compensatory measures in other parts of the specification.

The Catnic TBL guarantees a psi value of 0.05 W/mK, with performance as low as 0.02 W/mK also possible. In addition, all values have been independently verified by the BRE.

How does the Catnic thermally broken steel lintel achieve its performance?

The Catnic TBL comprises powder-coated galvanised steel components either side of an expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation core. The steel components are bonded to the insulation using adhesive and, as there are no brackets, the steel is not continuous from one side of the lintel to the other. This is a unique design, with Catnic being the only steel lintel manufacturer to offer a solution with no brackets.

The low psi values offered by the Catnic TBL can allow other areas of the building fabric to be optimised. Where the aim is to achieve an even higher level of energy efficiency compared to building regulation compliance, specification of Catnic TBLs is essential.

Aside from thermal performance, the TBL provides equivalent safe working loads to existing cavity wall lintels and offers equivalent moisture resistance in any exposure zone.

Benefits of the Catnic thermally broken steel lintels

• Unique design delivers market-leading performance.
• The only thermally broken lintel to offer a guaranteed psi value of 0.05 W/mK or better, significantly reducing thermal bridging heat losses over openings.
• Safe working loads are in line with Catnic’s existing cavity wall lintels, so no change in the structural design of external walls is required.
• Manufactured from powder coated galvanised steel to deliver corrosion resistance and durable performance over the life of the building.
• Options are available to suit cavities from 90 to 165mm, in standard, heavy and extra heavy duty performance categories.