# 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="/files/KIWjlSQ5Bsq0ZsJ6YaCy" %}

### 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="/files/r6MNzWxlrET1IM8W6bA1" %}

### 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="/files/4lHFx2MHJwJX67Tby7wC" %}

***

## 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="/files/87yIRqp19qBJ5CJyElIA" %}

### 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="/files/f908FEIxkkvSeiC4a34q" %}

### 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="/files/yvQlak5YF33PXKBT3Lkm" %}

### 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="/files/fFXH8TIuwBCMpwRouNcd" %}

***

## 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="/files/n7fc9N2m3A2Fvo3rbPMY" %}

### 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="/files/XNEyot3Eh9nSt6yy2hmQ" %}

### 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="/files/0A4sUVZGU1QFaCeyqJI8" %}

***

## 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="/files/0wv3UCJ9re7Xp8M2Nxw5" %}

***

## 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="/files/tmETuq08QWBRmKyyHJTU" %}

### 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="/files/0rYbrmlkLdXrj44HcysM" %}

### 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="/files/QbfONxeAHU8FXmreISRm" %}

### 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="/files/n5lc08FE9h3lO0GcYFAX" %}

## Notes

1. All materials are assumed to have a solar absorptance and a solar reflectance of 0.4.&#x20;


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