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Getting Started Design Eco Sustainable Design Thermal Mass
Surface colour and texture affect the heat
absorption of thermal mass.
Soft Floor Finishes
Carpets laid over concrete slab floors tend to
insulate the thermal mass of the slab from
incoming heat. This delays its entry but also slows
down its release. The net result is a temperature
rise of 1"2C, which is good in winter, but not so
good in summer. This effect partly offsets the
winter disadvantage of increased heating energy
requirements due to absorption of heat by the
thermal mass.
While carpet lowers winter energy consumption, it
increases summer energy requirements. Table 6.1
compares the effect on energy use of carpet and
ceramic tiles on a concrete slab. Cork tiles are
another soft floor finish with a similar insulating
effect to carpet.
Hard Floor Finishes
A ceramic tiled finish on a concrete slab floor
increases the thermal mass of the floor and the
ability to store heat. This can improve cooling in
summer (providing the windows are shaded) and
works best for rooms with good north solar access.
Other hard floor finishes, such as slate and vinyl
tiles, have a similar effect on thermal mass
performance.
Colours
Thermal mass that is coloured black absorbs more
heat than white coloured material. Its effect on
room temperature could be a 2"3C year-round
temperature rise
Textures
Textured surfaces, such as brick walls, have more
exposed surface area and absorb more heat, while
shiny or glossy surfaces absorb less heat than dull
surfaces.
Wall Surfaces
An exposed brick wall absorbs more heat than a
smooth plastered wall. The improved thermal
storage of dark, textured walls should be balanced
against the negative effect of such walls on internal
light levels. Light-coloured reflective surfaces
maximise both daylight and artificial light, whereas
dark surfaces absorb light.