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The Effect of Building Materials on Indoor Thermal Comfort

Abstract

Indoor thermal comfort is an important consideration in building design because it affects occupant well-being, productivity, and satisfaction. In warm and tropical climates, maintaining comfortable indoor conditions can be challenging due to high outdoor temperatures, intense solar radiation, and humidity. The choice of building materials plays an important role in determining how much heat is transferred through walls, roofs, floors, and other building components. Appropriate material selection can therefore contribute to improved thermal comfort while reducing dependence on mechanical cooling systems. This study examines the effect of building materials on indoor thermal comfort in buildings. Building materials differ in their thermal properties, including thermal conductivity, density, heat capacity, absorptivity, and resistance to heat transfer. These properties determine how materials respond to external heat and how quickly heat is transferred into or out of indoor spaces. Materials with suitable thermal characteristics can help regulate indoor temperatures and create more stable thermal conditions for occupants. The thermal performance of walls and roofs is particularly important because these surfaces are directly exposed to solar radiation. Materials with high thermal resistance can reduce the rate of heat transfer into interior spaces, while materials with appropriate thermal mass can absorb and store heat and release it gradually. Roof materials are also important because roofs often receive significant solar radiation. The use of suitable roofing materials, insulation, reflective finishes, and appropriate construction techniques can reduce excessive heat gain and improve indoor comfort. Windows and glazing materials also influence indoor thermal conditions by controlling the movement of solar radiation and heat through openings. The type of glass, window frame, glazing arrangement, and shading system can affect the amount of heat entering an interior space. Combining appropriate wall, roof, floor, and window materials with passive design strategies such as natural ventilation and solar shading can improve overall thermal performance. These measures can also reduce the cooling energy requirements of buildings. The selection of building materials should consider both climatic and environmental conditions. Materials that perform effectively in one climate may not provide the same thermal benefits in another. In tropical regions, materials that minimize excessive heat gain while allowing adequate ventilation and thermal regulation are particularly important. Cost, availability, durability, maintenance requirements, and environmental impact should also be considered when selecting suitable materials for residential, commercial, and institutional buildings. This study assesses the effect of different building materials on indoor thermal comfort by examining their influence on indoor temperature, heat transfer, thermal performance, and occupant comfort. The study is expected to identify material characteristics and construction approaches that can contribute to improved indoor thermal conditions. The findings will provide useful information for architects, engineers, builders, developers, and homeowners in selecting appropriate materials for climate-responsive and energy-efficient buildings. The study may also contribute to reducing dependence on mechanical cooling and promoting more sustainable building practices.

Keywords: Building materials, Indoor thermal comfort, Thermal performance, Heat transfer, Thermal conductivity, Thermal insulation, Building envelope, Thermal mass, Solar heat gain, Energy efficiency, Passive design, Sustainable materials, Indoor temperature, Climate-responsive design.