ZeroHouse Lab: Foundation-to-Wall Junction with Reduced Thermal Bridging

This Lab explains how to review a foundation-to-wall junction. Without geometry and calculation, the junction is not declared thermal-bridge-free.

Starting assumptions

The concept is a heated building with external insulation and a ground-bearing floor. Soil, materials, loads and temperatures are unspecified: this is not a construction detail.

Layer continuity

Trace wall, plinth and floor insulation in section. Separately mark load paths, waterproofing and the air barrier so a thermal change does not compromise another function.

Calculation method

Assessing ψ and surface temperature needs an appropriate two- or three-dimensional model with consistent dimensions and boundaries. Compare baseline and revised details using the same method.

Construction trade-offs

Insulation must suit expected moisture, loading and protection conditions. Coordinate drainage, external levels and repair access with geotechnical and structural design.

What can be concluded

The concept can identify discontinuities and missing calculation inputs. It cannot establish structural capacity, acceptable moisture or a numerical thermal-bridge performance level.

ZeroHouse assessment diagram; not a construction detail.

Project review matrix
Item	Parameter	Check / result
Heat	Insulation junction	Model
Water	Waterproofing and drainage	Detail
Loads	Support and soil	Structural design

What this means for your project

Have the structural designer and building-physics specialist review the detail together. Plan inspection before insulation and waterproofing are concealed.

Sources and scope of review

Checked: 2026-09-09. Editorial guidance; not evidence of compliance for an individual building.