Performance of insulated roofs with elevated outdoor conditions due to global warming

Abstract

Global warming is a serious condition when it comes to analyzing how to achieve thermal comfort by natural means. With the predicted rise of temperature from 2-4 0C, the probability of people turning to alternative thermal comfort options such as air conditioning would increase creating energy crises. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate building construction methods that increase thermal comfort. This study was aimed at evaluating the effect of expected global warming on thermal comfort related expectations of people and to develop strategies that can assist to minimize the energy needed for thermal comfort especially in tropical climates. The results suggest that construction of multi-storey houses with small foot print and insulated concrete slab as roof has the possibility of creating desirable micro–climates. The concrete slab roof provides the possibility of creating roof top vegetation which can significantly reduce the indoor temperature.