Flooring choices for use over concrete slabs using thermal mass what finish flooring materials are best to use over a concrete floor slab to retain the thermal mass properties of the slab.
Thermal mass flooring options.
Glass to mass ratios in australian cities.
Double glazed areas of 20 25 of floor area snug drapes and pelmets should also be used.
Baggs mortenson 2006.
Rule of thumb glass to mass ratios for different climates.
If you cover your thermal mass concrete slab floor with carpets or vinyl you will reduce much of the sun s radiation being absorbed into the floor and less of the heat will be released later when it is colder.
Both are important to ensure a sustainable result.
Other materials that have a good thermal conductivity are water sandstone rammed earth and earth blocks mud brick etc.
Glass area 12 15 of floor area.
Planning windows so that they expose a high thermal mass floor to the sun during daylight hours will also help to lower your costs.
Cold and alpine climates.
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Questions answers about how to choose a finish floor to be installed over a.
Flooring materials for passive solar floor slab designs where direct solar gain and passive solar heat storage are desired.
Moreover colours and coverings can influence the performance of thermal mass.
For example carpets and timber floors will minimise the ability of thermal mass to absorb and release heat as they work as additional insulation.