THERMAL PERFORMANCE OF BUILDING ENVELOPES FOR BUILDINGS IN ABUJA, NIGERIA

Purpose: This research aims to determine the thermal performance of building envelope types, mainly walls, that are commonly used locally and other prescribed/recommended typologies. Design/methodology/approach: This was carried out using computer-based simulation, with the aid of Integrated Environmental Solutions – Virtual Environment (IES-VE) software as the simulation tool, in which thermal comfort temperature ranges was used as an indicator of performance. As such durations in which thermally comfortable internal spaces can be obtainable without the reliance on non-natural means [heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) mechanisms] was determined. Findings: The result showed that thermal comfort can be obtainable for more than 50% of the occupancy periods in Abuja for all wall types. Meanwhile the most commonly used wall types also showed improved thermal performance of up to 70% during the hot season. Originality/value: Thus, the research was able to demonstrate in very clear terms, the comparative thermal performance of wall types used as building envelopes in Abuja-Nigeria. This approach also shows the importance of computer-based simulation in evaluating building design options. Thus, enabling architects to make informed design decisions in creating thermally comfortable buildings, with attendant low energy implications (for cooling) as well as the achievement of sustainable built environment. The research was also able to determine/demonstrate actual thermal performances of wall types prescribed in local building codes, which hitherto, have remained largely prescriptive.