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Thermal Mass

Thermal mass refers to the ability of a material to absorb, store and consequently release heat energy.

In combination with both solar passive design and natural ventilation, thermal mass has the potential to greatly improve comfort levels within buildings.

Thermal mass refers to the ability of a material to absorb, store and consequently release heat energy.

We will often specify dense construction materials such as concrete, stone and masonry to function as thermal mass elements, to be heated by direct sunlight in winter and remain shaded and cooled by natural ventilation in the summer.

Thermal mass also has the ability to absorb and help to sustain internal temperatures once an optimal environment has been achieved, thereby reducing the intensity and frequency of active systems like air-conditioners and heaters which can greatly reduce indoor air quality and are becoming increasingly expensive to run.