Impact of heating strategies in LSF building systems: evaluation of thermal comfort and energy performance

Abstract

The importance of simultaneously good thermal performance and high energy efficiency is a relevant and current challenge in residential buildings. In southern European countries, the use of heating systems is often limited by a phenomenon called energy poverty. In this context, the challenge of aspiring sustainable constructive solutions, which optimise the thermal performance of buildings, is even more urgent.

The constructive system in Light Steel Framing (LSF) has been occupying a more relevant position in the market and with a growth path. However, the use of these systems still needs to be studied due to their low thermal inertia. This study aims to increase the current knowledge regarding the thermal behaviour and energy performance of LSF buildings in Mediterranean climates. Thus, two test cells are tested, one composed of traditional solutions (reinforced concrete and masonry construction) and the second consisting of cold-formed steel construction. The performance of the two test cells was compared in the winter period, considering different heating strategies (continuous and intermittent), to analyse some patterns of the user's heating habits, in this case, regarding the Portuguese population. The monitoring includes measuring indoor air temperature and energy consumption for heating the space.

This research work intends to contribute to a better understanding of the thermal and energy performance of light steel framing buildings when compared with traditional construction buildings and their ability to provide a comfortable environment more economically and sustainably.