What Is a Thermal Break – And Do You Need One in Perth?

If you're building or renovating in Perth, you've likely come across the term "thermal break". But what does it actually mean – and do you really need one?

With temperatures in WA frequently topping 35°C in summer, managing heat transfer is essential to keeping homes cool and energy efficient. That’s where thermal breaks come in.

What Is a Thermal Break?

A thermal break is a layer of material that interrupts the direct transfer of heat (or cold) through a building element – typically metal. Metal is highly conductive, which means heat travels through it very easily. This can cause major comfort and efficiency issues in steel-framed homes, sheds, or any metal-clad structure.

By adding a thermal break insulation layer – like ThermalBreak 7™ – you stop heat from passing directly through the structure, helping to maintain indoor temperatures more effectively.

Why Thermal Breaks Matter in Perth

In Western Australia's climate, thermal breaks can significantly improve comfort and energy performance by:

  • Reducing radiant heat gain through steel framing and roof sheeting
  • Improving R-value performance in wall and ceiling systems
  • Meeting NCC compliance in new builds (especially metal-framed homes)
  • Preventing condensation build-up in cold-to-warm transitions

Where Do You Install Thermal Breaks?

Thermal break insulation is commonly installed:

  • Under metal roofing – to prevent direct radiant heat transfer into roof cavities
  • Behind external cladding in steel-framed wall systems
  • In sheds or warehouses using foil-backed thermal liners

For Perth homes and outbuildings, we recommend using foil-faced thermal breaks like Trade Select ThermalBreak 7™, especially when pairing with Earthwool insulation in the roof or walls.

Best Thermal Break Products in WA

At Perth Insulation Centre, we stock premium foil insulation products designed specifically for WA conditions, including:

Do You Need a Thermal Break?

If your project involves:

  • Steel-framed construction
  • Metal roofs or cladding
  • Sheds, garages, or shipping container builds

Then yes – a thermal break isn’t just recommended, it’s essential. Without it, your insulation system won’t perform to its full potential, and your cooling costs will rise unnecessarily.

Speak to the Experts at Perth Insulation Centre

Need help choosing the right thermal break product for your project? We stock WA’s best range of Earthwool batts, foil insulation, and under-roof wraps – available online or over the counter.

Get in touch today for product recommendations, delivery quotes, or trade account setup.

Related Products

Don’t let summer heat win. Add a thermal break and stay cool this season.

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