Inadequate living conditions in a building trigger discomfort and even physical pathologies in humans. Scientific experiments have shown that a lack of concentration and even everyday accidents are influenced by both high and low indoor temperatures. And while thermal sensitivity varies from person to person—depending on their clothing, gender, habits, and age—the basic principles behind thermal comfort are universal. Thermal comfort is primarily determined by air temperature and humidity. In this regard, the human body seeks to maintain a near-constant core temperature of 37°C, continuously exchanging heat with the environment.
Thermal conditioning is one of the most critical factors in achieving indoor comfort and, combined with architectural conditions, helps achieve the desired residential comfort. One of the major challenges in environmental comfort is designing homes that require high levels of heating in winter and excessive cooling during the summer, resulting in a poor quality of life and high financial costs for their occupants.
One of the first elements to consider when addressing thermal comfort is creating an efficient building envelope, which acts as a filter between the exterior and interior climates, stabilizing the indoor atmosphere. Proper management of the envelope results in a well-balanced interior and reduces the reliance on mechanical systems. As a result, improving the performance of walls and roofs leads to lower energy costs, ultimately creating a more energy-efficient home and promoting the health of all its occupants.
