Red Seal Glazier Practice Exam

Thermal breaks in window frames are specifically designed to enhance energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer between the interior and exterior of a building. When the material of a window frame conducts heat easily, it can lead to significant energy losses, particularly in extreme weather conditions. A thermal break is typically made of a less conductive material that creates a barrier between the interior metal section of the window frame and the outer section. This barrier slows down the transfer of heat, keeping warmer air inside during colder months and cooler air in during warmer months. As a result, thermal breaks contribute significantly to maintaining a stable internal temperature, improving overall energy efficiency and reducing heating and cooling costs.

While aesthetic design and structural integrity are important characteristics of window frames, they are not the primary purpose of thermal breaks. Additionally, minimizing air leakage is related to weather stripping and sealing, rather than the thermal break itself. Therefore, the focus of thermal breaks is clearly on improving energy efficiency through the reduction of heat transfer.