Insights from the Skill Builder x Catnic Podcast – September Episode

This guide distills key takeaways from our recent podcast with Roger Bisby and Catnic Technical Director, Richard Price, turning expert discussion into practical product knowledge.

What Is a Thermally Broken Lintel?

Catnic’s thermally broken lintels are designed to eliminate cold bridging in cavity walls, at the head of window / wall openings, a critical step in improving housing performance and meeting evolving Building Regulations. They combine bonded steel (inner and outer leafs) with an EPS core (polystyrene), together with a flat-top profile that integrates seamlessly with cavity wall insulation and DPC (damp proof course) layers.

Key Features & Benefits

Feature	Benefit
Flat-top profile	Simplifies DPC placement and insulation alignment
No brackets	Ensures optimal thermal performance
Bonded steel + polystyrene	Delivers structural strength and ensures no propping required during installation
UKCA & BBA certified	Ensures compliance and third-party validation
Designed for wider cavities	Future-proofed for cavities from 90-225mm

Steel lintel for cavity wall construction

Installation & Practical Advice

Top tips for ensuring a hassle free installation:

DPC integration: Lay neatly over the flat top for consistent thermal junctions
No specialist fixings required: Standard build methods apply
Cutting lintels safely: Use appropriate tools and follow manufacturer guidance

Regulation & Standards

What you need to know. Catnic’s lintels are designed to meet:

Part L 2021: Focused on notional building design and overall performance
Future Homes Standard: Ready for wider cavities and improved EPC outcomes
Housing Energy Model (HEM): Supporting the shift from SAP to HEM

Richard explains the difference between “thermally improved” and “truly thermally broken” and why that distinction matters for long-term compliance.

Fabric First Philosophy

“Get the building envelope right, and long-term performance follows.” Unlike tech-based solutions, thermally broken lintels offer passive, lasting benefits, keeping homes cooler in summer, warmer in winter, and reducing heat transfer.