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Energy Efficiency Optimized
Building components constructed of concrete generally are considered ”mass“ elements. This means they have enough heat-storage capacity to moderate daily temperature swings. Buildings constructed of cast-in-place, tilt-up, precast concrete, insulating concrete forms (ICF), or masonry possess thermal mass that helps moderate indoor temperature extremes and reduces peak heating and cooling loads. In many climates, these buildings have lower energy consumption than non-massive buildings with walls of similar thermal resistance. When buildings are properly designed and optimized, incorporating thermal mass can lead to a reduction in heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning equipment capacity. Reduced equipment capacity can represent energy and construction cost savings.
Structures built with insulated concrete have optimal energy performance. Homes and buildings constructed from insulated concrete walls are not subject to large daily temperature fluctuations. This means home or building owners can lower heating and cooling bills up to 25% and occupants within these structures are more comfortable. Also heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning can be designed with smaller-capacity equipment.
Additionally, concrete minimizes the effects that produce urban heat islands. Studies have shown that urban environments have higher temperatures in areas where there are few trees, and a multitude of dark colored paved surfaces and buildings. This additional heat causes air conditioning systems to work harder, which uses more energy (up to 18% more) and promotes the formation of smog. Light-colored concrete absorbs less heat and reflects more light than dark-colored materials––thereby reducing heat gain. Light colored pavements also require less site lighting to provide safe night-time illumination levels, whether on parking lots, driveways, or sidewalks.
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