# External / Siding ## Metal Sheets & Barriers ### Aluminium Aluminium provides nearly impermeable vapour protection. Widely used in exterior cladding systems. Requires proper detailing to prevent condensation at interfaces. Standard gauge 26-22 (0.5-1.5mm). Anodized finishes improve durability in corrosive environments. Excellent thermal conductor; thermal bridging requires insulation breaks. #### Basic Information | Property | Value | | -------------------- | ------------------------------------------------ | | Type | Architectural Metal | | Thickness (m) | 0.001 | | Thickness (mm) | 1.0 | | Thickness (inches) | 0.039" | | Colour | Silver/Grey | | Primary Applications | Cladding, roofing, curtain walls, flashing, trim | #### Thermal Properties | Property | Metric | Imperial | | ---------------------------- | -------------- | ----------------------- | | Thermal Conductivity | 237 W/(m·K) | 1,364 BTU·in/(h·ft²·°F) | | Specific Heat Capacity | 510 J/(kg·K) | 0.12 BTU/(lb·°F) | | Density | 8050 kg/m³ | 502.7 lb/ft³ | | Thermal Resistance (R-value) | 0.00 m²·K/W | 0.00 ft²·°F·h/BTU | | Heat Capacity (per m²) | 4.11 kJ/(m²·K) | 0.72 BTU/(ft²·°F) | {% file src="" %} ### Steel Steel sheets provide superior vapour barrier performance and structural capability. Available in various gauges; 1mm represents 18-20 gauge. Galvanized coatings essential for corrosion resistance. Thermal bridging must be addressed in design. Typical standing seam roofing uses 0.5-0.7mm thickness. Good thermal mass relative to thickness. #### Basic Information | Property | Value | | -------------------- | ---------------------------------------------- | | Type | Architectural Metal | | Thickness (m) | 0.001 | | Thickness (mm) | 1.0 | | Thickness (inches) | 0.039" | | Colour | Silver/Grey | | Primary Applications | Roofing, structural panels, cladding, ductwork | #### Thermal Properties | Property | Metric | Imperial | | ---------------------------- | -------------- | --------------------- | | Thermal Conductivity | 160 W/(m·K) | 924 BTU·in/(h·ft²·°F) | | Specific Heat Capacity | 510 J/(kg·K) | 0.12 BTU/(lb·°F) | | Density | 8050 kg/m³ | 502.7 lb/ft³ | | Thermal Resistance (R-value) | 0.00 m²·K/W | 0.00 ft²·°F·h/BTU | | Heat Capacity (per m²) | 4.11 kJ/(m²·K) | 0.72 BTU/(ft²·°F) | {% file src="" %} ### Zinc Zinc offers excellent long-term durability with natural patina formation. Typical roofing applications use 0.6-0.7mm. Superior corrosion resistance in marine and industrial environments. Self-healing properties through patina layer. Lower thermal expansion than aluminium. Good thermal conductivity; thermal breaks recommended. #### Basic Information | Property | Value | | -------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------- | | Type | Architectural Metal | | Thickness (m) | 0.001 | | Thickness (mm) | 1.0 | | Thickness (inches) | 0.039" | | Colour | Silver/Grey | | Primary Applications | Roofing, cladding, flashing, architectural metalwork | #### Thermal Properties | Property | Metric | Imperial | | ---------------------------- | -------------- | --------------------- | | Thermal Conductivity | 129 W/(m·K) | 745 BTU·in/(h·ft²·°F) | | Specific Heat Capacity | 510 J/(kg·K) | 0.12 BTU/(lb·°F) | | Density | 8050 kg/m³ | 502.7 lb/ft³ | | Thermal Resistance (R-value) | 0.00 m²·K/W | 0.00 ft²·°F·h/BTU | | Heat Capacity (per m²) | 4.11 kJ/(m²·K) | 0.72 BTU/(ft²·°F) | {% file src="" %} *** ## Wood & Wood Products ### Hardwood Hardwood represents standard solid hardwood flooring thickness. Hygroscopic material responsive to moisture changes. Dimensional stability varies by species. Typical US flooring standard 3/4" (19mm). Must be properly acclimated before installation. Moisture content 6-9% recommended for interiors. Excellent thermal mass and comfort underfoot. #### Basic Information | Property | Value | | -------------------- | ------------------------------------ | | Type | Solid Wood Flooring | | Thickness (m) | 0.019 | | Thickness (mm) | 19.0 | | Thickness (inches) | 0.748" | | Colour | Medium Brown | | Primary Applications | Interior flooring, solid wood planks | #### Thermal Properties | Property | Metric | Imperial | | ---------------------------- | -------------- | ---------------------- | | Thermal Conductivity | 0.13 W/(m·K) | 0.75 BTU·in/(h·ft²·°F) | | Specific Heat Capacity | 1400 J/(kg·K) | 0.33 BTU/(lb·°F) | | Density | 650 kg/m³ | 40.6 lb/ft³ | | Thermal Resistance (R-value) | 0.15 m²·K/W | 0.83 ft²·°F·h/BTU | | Heat Capacity (per m²) | 8.75 kJ/(m²·K) | 1.54 BTU/(ft²·°F) | {% file src="" %} ### Plywood Plywood represents 9-ply construction (typical 15/32" structural sheathing). Cross-grain lamination provides dimensional stability and strength. Suitable for exterior applications with appropriate grade (CDX/OSB equivalent). Vapour permeability varies by veneer orientation and resin type. Standard moisture content 12-15%. Good thermal properties with moderate insulation value. #### Basic Information | Property | Value | | -------------------- | ----------------------------------------------- | | Type | Engineered Wood Sheathing | | Thickness (m) | 0.010 | | Thickness (mm) | 10.0 | | Thickness (inches) | 0.394" | | Colour | Light Brown | | Primary Applications | Structural sheathing, subflooring, wall bracing | #### Thermal Properties | Property | Metric | Imperial | | ---------------------------- | -------------- | ---------------------- | | Thermal Conductivity | 0.13 W/(m·K) | 0.75 BTU·in/(h·ft²·°F) | | Specific Heat Capacity | 1500 J/(kg·K) | 0.36 BTU/(lb·°F) | | Density | 560 kg/m³ | 35.0 lb/ft³ | | Thermal Resistance (R-value) | 0.08 m²·K/W | 0.44 ft²·°F·h/BTU | | Heat Capacity (per m²) | 6.72 kJ/(m²·K) | 1.18 BTU/(ft²·°F) | {% file src="" %} ### Weatherboard (Wood Siding) Weatherboard profile siding is typical for North American standards. Wood species includes Western Red Cedar, Pine, Fir. Requires weather-resistant backing and proper drainage plane. Annual maintenance (sealing/staining) extends service life 40-60 years. Expansion/contraction 0.1-0.2% across grain requires gap design. Natural insulation aids thermal performance. #### Basic Information | Property | Value | | -------------------- | ------------------------------ | | Type | Wood Siding | | Thickness (m) | 0.019 | | Thickness (mm) | 19.0 | | Thickness (inches) | 0.748" | | Colour | Natural Wood | | Primary Applications | Exterior cladding, wall siding | #### Thermal Properties | Property | Metric | Imperial | | ---------------------------- | -------------- | ---------------------- | | Thermal Conductivity | 0.13 W/(m·K) | 0.75 BTU·in/(h·ft²·°F) | | Specific Heat Capacity | 1500 J/(kg·K) | 0.36 BTU/(lb·°F) | | Density | 650 kg/m³ | 40.6 lb/ft³ | | Thermal Resistance (R-value) | 0.15 m²·K/W | 0.83 ft²·°F·h/BTU | | Heat Capacity (per m²) | 9.18 kJ/(m²·K) | 1.62 BTU/(ft²·°F) | {% file src="" %} ### Pine Weatherboards Pine Weatherboards represent traditional Nordic/European cladding profiles (12mm nominal). Lower µ-value reflects tight grain structure of slow-grown pine. Excellent for exterior exposure with proper finish protection. Minimal expansion (0.06-0.08% across grain). Thermal performance improves with ventilation cavity design. Lower density provides better insulation. #### Basic Information | Property | Value | | -------------------- | ----------------------------------------------- | | Type | Wood Cladding | | Thickness (m) | 0.019 | | Thickness (mm) | 19.0 | | Thickness (inches) | 0.748" | | Colour | Light Tan | | Primary Applications | Exterior wall cladding, Nordic/European facades | #### Thermal Properties | Property | Metric | Imperial | | ---------------------------- | -------------- | ---------------------- | | Thermal Conductivity | 0.13 W/(m·K) | 0.75 BTU·in/(h·ft²·°F) | | Specific Heat Capacity | 1600 J/(kg·K) | 0.38 BTU/(lb·°F) | | Density | 510 kg/m³ | 31.8 lb/ft³ | | Thermal Resistance (R-value) | 0.15 m²·K/W | 0.83 ft²·°F·h/BTU | | Heat Capacity (per m²) | 7.81 kJ/(m²·K) | 1.37 BTU/(ft²·°F) | {% file src="" %} *** ## Stone & Masonry ### Sandstone Sandstone represents typical veneer thickness (2.4"). Porous stone with good vapour permeability. Particle size and cement content influence durability. Suitable for dry climates; requires careful detailing in wet climates. Density 2200-2400 kg/m³. Repointing mortars must match original specifications. Excellent thermal mass for building envelope. #### Basic Information | Property | Value | | -------------------- | --------------------------------------------- | | Type | Natural Stone | | Thickness (m) | 0.050 | | Thickness (mm) | 50.0 | | Thickness (inches) | 1.969" | | Colour | Golden Tan/Brown | | Primary Applications | Stone veneer, architectural cladding, masonry | #### Thermal Properties | Property | Metric | Imperial | | ---------------------------- | --------------- | ---------------------- | | Thermal Conductivity | 1.684 W/(m·K) | 9.71 BTU·in/(h·ft²·°F) | | Specific Heat Capacity | 771 J/(kg·K) | 0.18 BTU/(lb·°F) | | Density | 2224 kg/m³ | 138.9 lb/ft³ | | Thermal Resistance (R-value) | 0.03 m²·K/W | 0.17 ft²·°F·h/BTU | | Heat Capacity (per m²) | 85.71 kJ/(m²·K) | 15.08 BTU/(ft²·°F) | {% file src="" %} ### Limestone Limestone represents thin veneer or finish panel thickness. Calcitic limestone composition determines acid-rain resistance. Hygroscopic with 0.02-0.05% expansion potential. Density 2300-2700 kg/m³. Excellent for interior applications; exterior requires protective sealants in acidic environments. Compatible with limestone mortars. High thermal mass despite thin section. #### Basic Information | Property | Value | | -------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------- | | Type | Natural Stone | | Thickness (m) | 0.012 | | Thickness (mm) | 12.0 | | Thickness (inches) | 0.472" | | Colour | Cream/White | | Primary Applications | Interior finishes, stone cladding, architectural details | #### Thermal Properties | Property | Metric | Imperial | | ---------------------------- | --------------- | ----------------------- | | Thermal Conductivity | 3.0 W/(m·K) | 17.31 BTU·in/(h·ft²·°F) | | Specific Heat Capacity | 2600 J/(kg·K) | 0.62 BTU/(lb·°F) | | Density | 2650 kg/m³ | 165.5 lb/ft³ | | Thermal Resistance (R-value) | 0.00 m²·K/W | 0.03 ft²·°F·h/BTU | | Heat Capacity (per m²) | 82.80 kJ/(m²·K) | 14.57 BTU/(ft²·°F) | {% file src="" %} ### Terracotta Terracotta represents typical roof tile thickness. High porosity (10-15%) requires traditional clay firing. Minimal dimensional change (<0.5%). Density 1600-2000 kg/m³. Excellent hygrothermal performance; allows structure to dry. Hand-crafted units show aesthetic variation. Compatible with lime mortars and breathable construction. Significant thermal mass for climate moderation. #### Basic Information | Property | Value | | -------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------- | | Type | Clay Tile | | Thickness (m) | 0.035 | | Thickness (mm) | 35.0 | | Thickness (inches) | 1.378" | | Colour | Red/Orange/Brown | | Primary Applications | Roof tiles, architectural cladding, ornamental features | #### Thermal Properties | Property | Metric | Imperial | | ---------------------------- | --------------- | ---------------------- | | Thermal Conductivity | 0.81 W/(m·K) | 4.68 BTU·in/(h·ft²·°F) | | Specific Heat Capacity | 800 J/(kg·K) | 0.19 BTU/(lb·°F) | | Density | 1922 kg/m³ | 120.1 lb/ft³ | | Thermal Resistance (R-value) | 0.04 m²·K/W | 0.25 ft²·°F·h/BTU | | Heat Capacity (per m²) | 53.88 kJ/(m²·K) | 9.48 BTU/(ft²·°F) | {% file src="" %} *** ## Plaster & Finishes ### Cement Lime Plaster Cement Lime Plaster represents typical finish coat thickness (3-5mm) multiplied for this modelling scenario. Hybrid binder system (cement + lime) balances strength and breathability. Cure time 7-28 days depending on composition. Lower vapour resistance compared to cement-only finishes. Compatible with breathable substrates. Good adhesion to most surfaces. Moderate thermal mass contribution. #### Basic Information | Property | Value | | -------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------ | | Type | Finish Plaster | | Thickness (m) | 0.020 | | Thickness (mm) | 20.0 | | Thickness (inches) | 0.787" | | Colour | Off-white/Cream | | Primary Applications | Interior wall finish, exterior render, surface coating | #### Thermal Properties | Property | Metric | Imperial | | ---------------------------- | --------------- | ---------------------- | | Thermal Conductivity | 0.8 W/(m·K) | 4.62 BTU·in/(h·ft²·°F) | | Specific Heat Capacity | 850 J/(kg·K) | 0.20 BTU/(lb·°F) | | Density | 1900 kg/m³ | 118.7 lb/ft³ | | Thermal Resistance (R-value) | 0.03 m²·K/W | 0.14 ft²·°F·h/BTU | | Heat Capacity (per m²) | 32.30 kJ/(m²·K) | 5.68 BTU/(ft²·°F) | {% file src="" %} *** ## Insulation & Specialty Materials ### Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Autoclaved Aerated Concrete blocks represent 60mm nominal dimension (typical 100-200mm structural units). Autoclaved high-pressure steam curing ensures dimensional stability ±1.5mm. Open-cell porous structure with 80-85% air content. Excellent thermal and acoustic performance. Low vapour resistance enables vapour management. Compatible with vapour-open finishes. Superior insulation value with good thermal mass. #### Basic Information | Property | Value | | -------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------- | | Type | Lightweight Concrete | | Thickness (m) | 0.075 | | Thickness (mm) | 75.0 | | Thickness (inches) | 2.953" | | Colour | Light Grey | | Primary Applications | Structural blocks, interior/exterior walls, thermal mass | #### Thermal Properties | Property | Metric | Imperial | | ---------------------------- | --------------- | ---------------------- | | Thermal Conductivity | 0.1 W/(m·K) | 0.58 BTU·in/(h·ft²·°F) | | Specific Heat Capacity | 850 J/(kg·K) | 0.20 BTU/(lb·°F) | | Density | 350 kg/m³ | 21.9 lb/ft³ | | Thermal Resistance (R-value) | 0.75 m²·K/W | 4.26 ft²·°F·h/BTU | | Heat Capacity (per m²) | 22.13 kJ/(m²·K) | 3.89 BTU/(ft²·°F) | {% file src="" %} ### Cork Cork represents renewable material harvested from cork oak bark. 6mm thickness typical for underlayment applications; structural requirements 25-50mm. Extremely low vapour resistance; excellent for vapour-open systems. Elastic recovery >90% after compression. Biodegradable and compostable. Superior acoustic absorption 250-2000 Hz. Non-toxic; FSC certification ensures sustainable sourcing. Excellent thermal insulation for its thickness. #### Basic Information | Property | Value | | -------------------- | -------------------------------------------------- | | Type | Natural Cellular Material | | Thickness (m) | 0.006 | | Thickness (mm) | 6.0 | | Thickness (inches) | 0.236" | | Colour | Golden Brown | | Primary Applications | Underlayment, thermal insulation, acoustic damping | #### Thermal Properties | Property | Metric | Imperial | | ---------------------------- | -------------- | ---------------------- | | Thermal Conductivity | 0.043 W/(m·K) | 0.25 BTU·in/(h·ft²·°F) | | Specific Heat Capacity | 1560 J/(kg·K) | 0.37 BTU/(lb·°F) | | Density | 160 kg/m³ | 10.0 lb/ft³ | | Thermal Resistance (R-value) | 0.14 m²·K/W | 0.79 ft²·°F·h/BTU | | Heat Capacity (per m²) | 1.50 kJ/(m²·K) | 0.26 BTU/(ft²·°F) | {% file src="" %} ### Fibre Cement Fibre Cement combines cement matrix with cellulose/synthetic fibres. High µ-value reflects dense composite structure. 6mm thickness typical for cladding panels; 10-12mm structural boards. Non-asbestos formulations meet modern health standards. Colour fastness excellent; minimal colour change over 15-20 years. Requires ventilation cavity and drainage plane. Excellent durability in extreme climates. Moderate thermal mass. #### Basic Information | Property | Value | | -------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------- | | Type | Composite Cladding | | Thickness (m) | 0.006 | | Thickness (mm) | 6.0 | | Thickness (inches) | 0.236" | | Colour | Grey/Natural | | Primary Applications | Exterior cladding, structural panels, wall sheathing | #### Thermal Properties | Property | Metric | Imperial | | ---------------------------- | -------------- | ---------------------- | | Thermal Conductivity | 0.25 W/(m·K) | 1.44 BTU·in/(h·ft²·°F) | | Specific Heat Capacity | 1000 J/(kg·K) | 0.24 BTU/(lb·°F) | | Density | 1360 kg/m³ | 84.9 lb/ft³ | | Thermal Resistance (R-value) | 0.02 m²·K/W | 0.14 ft²·°F·h/BTU | | Heat Capacity (per m²) | 8.16 kJ/(m²·K) | 1.44 BTU/(ft²·°F) | {% file src="" %} ### uPVC uPVC represents typical window frame wall thickness. Provides excellent vapour barrier performance and thermal insulation. Impact and UV resistant; colour stability superior. Thermal expansion coefficient requires design accommodation (±2mm per 1000mm per 30°C). Recyclable material with established collection systems. Low maintenance; no painting required. Good thermal insulation in profile system. #### Basic Information | Property | Value | | -------------------- | ------------------------------------------ | | Type | Plastic Profile | | Thickness (m) | 0.003 | | Thickness (mm) | 3.0 | | Thickness (inches) | 0.118" | | Colour | White/Grey | | Primary Applications | Window frames, door frames, thermal breaks | #### Thermal Properties | Property | Metric | Imperial | | ---------------------------- | -------------- | ---------------------- | | Thermal Conductivity | 0.16 W/(m·K) | 0.92 BTU·in/(h·ft²·°F) | | Specific Heat Capacity | 1500 J/(kg·K) | 0.36 BTU/(lb·°F) | | Density | 1379 kg/m³ | 86.1 lb/ft³ | | Thermal Resistance (R-value) | 0.02 m²·K/W | 0.11 ft²·°F·h/BTU | | Heat Capacity (per m²) | 6.21 kJ/(m²·K) | 1.09 BTU/(ft²·°F) | {% file src="" %} ## Notes 1. All materials are assumed to have a solar absorptance and a solar reflectance of 0.4.