Can a Thermal Barrier Be Applied Directly to Concrete?

Yes — a thermal barrier can be applied directly to concrete. Concrete columns, beams, walls and soffits are common thermal bridges in both modern and older buildings. Because concrete conducts heat more readily than insulated areas, these elements create cold internal surfaces that fall below the dew point and condense moisture.

A spray-applied natural cork thermal coating adheres directly to the concrete surface, forming a thin thermal layer that improves the surface temperature of the concrete. This treats the thermal bridge at its source — the cold column, beam or wall — without the battening and space loss of rigid insulation boards.

By improving the thermal behaviour of the cold concrete surface, an appropriate VIPEQ cork-enhanced thermal coating can help raise its internal surface temperature and reduce the conditions that lead to condensation — while remaining vapour-permeable so the concrete can continue to breathe.