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The Effect of Building Material Selection on Indoor Thermal Comfort

Abstract

Indoor thermal comfort is an important aspect of building performance because it influences occupants’ health, productivity, satisfaction, and overall quality of life. In warm and tropical climates, inappropriate selection of building materials can contribute to excessive indoor heat gain and uncomfortable indoor conditions. The thermal properties of materials used for walls, roofs, floors, windows, and other building components influence how heat is absorbed, stored, transferred, and released within buildings. This study examines the effect of building material selection on indoor thermal comfort, with emphasis on the role of material properties in regulating indoor temperature. The study focuses on the thermal characteristics of commonly used building materials and their relationship with indoor environmental conditions. Properties such as thermal conductivity, density, thermal mass, absorptivity, reflectivity, and heat capacity are considered in assessing material performance. The research examines how differences in material composition and construction assemblies influence indoor air temperature and surface temperature. It also considers the interaction between material selection, building orientation, ventilation, solar exposure, and occupancy patterns. Particular attention is given to materials used for external walls and roofs because these elements are directly exposed to outdoor climatic conditions. Materials with high thermal resistance may reduce the rate of heat transfer into interior spaces, while materials with appropriate thermal mass can moderate temperature fluctuations. The study also considers the influence of surface finishes and colours on solar heat absorption. These factors are assessed in relation to their ability to maintain indoor conditions within acceptable thermal comfort ranges. The research further explores how material selection can contribute to passive thermal regulation and reduce dependence on mechanical cooling systems. Materials that respond appropriately to local climatic conditions may help minimize indoor overheating during periods of high outdoor temperature. The use of locally available materials with suitable thermal characteristics may also provide cost-effective opportunities for improving building comfort. However, material performance is influenced by construction quality, moisture conditions, building configuration, and the specific climatic context in which materials are applied. The study identifies challenges associated with selecting appropriate building materials for thermal comfort, including limited awareness of material thermal properties, preference for conventional materials, inadequate performance data, and variations in local construction practices. It emphasizes the importance of integrating material selection into the early stages of architectural design rather than treating it as a purely construction-related decision. Appropriate combinations of materials, insulation, shading, ventilation, and building form can produce more thermally responsive buildings. The study aims to assess the relationship between building material selection and indoor thermal comfort and to identify material characteristics that can support improved thermal performance. The findings are expected to provide useful guidance for architects, builders, and housing developers in selecting materials that respond effectively to local climatic conditions. By encouraging informed material selection, the research can contribute to improved occupant comfort, reduced cooling energy demand, and more sustainable building design.

Keywords: Building materials, Indoor thermal comfort, Thermal conductivity, Thermal mass, Heat transfer, Building envelope, Material selection, Indoor temperature, Passive design, Solar heat gain, Thermal performance, Sustainable construction, Tropical architecture, Energy efficiency.