Impact of Climatic Variables on the Optimization of Building Envelope Design in Humid Regions
Abstract
The optimization of building envelope design in humid regions is a critical determinant of energy efficiency, indoor thermal comfort, and overall building sustainability. In tropical climates such as Nigeria’s, high temperature, humidity, and solar radiation impose complex performance demands on envelope systems, influencing heat transfer, moisture control, and ventilation efficiency. This study investigates the impact of climatic variables—including temperature gradients, relative humidity, solar insolation, and wind patterns—on the thermal and energy performance of building envelopes in humid environments. Through a systematic synthesis of empirical research, simulation-based analyses, and regional case studies, the study identifies how façade orientation, wall composition, roof insulation, glazing ratios, and shading configurations affect energy demand and occupant comfort. Findings reveal that the thermal performance of envelopes is highly sensitive to diurnal temperature variations and solar exposure, with passive design strategies—such as reflective coatings, double-ventilated façades, and breathable wall assemblies—significantly enhancing energy efficiency. Materials with low thermal conductivity, combined with cross-ventilation design, reduce cooling loads while maintaining adequate indoor humidity control. Additionally, adaptive shading devices and green façade systems demonstrate measurable reductions in heat gain, contributing to long-term operational sustainability. This concludes that optimizing the building envelope in humid regions requires an integrated climate-responsive approach that aligns architectural form, material selection, and mechanical systems with local environmental dynamics. It advocates for the incorporation of dynamic simulation tools and climatic datasets in the early design phase to ensure performance-driven decisions. The outcomes provide strategic guidance for architects, urban planners, and policymakers in formulating context-sensitive building codes and energy-efficient standards suited to tropical conditions.
Keywords
Building Envelope Design, Humid Regions, Climatic Variables, Thermal Comfort, Passive Cooling, Solar Radiation, Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Architecture, Façade Optimization, Tropical Climate.
Citations
IRE Journals:
Mike Ikemefuna Nwafor, Daniel Obokhai Uduokhai, Gil-Ozoudeh Ifechukwu Desmond Stephen, Adepeju Nafisat Aransi "Impact of Climatic Variables on the Optimization of Building Envelope Design in Humid Regions" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 1 Issue 10 2018 Page 322-335
IEEE:
Mike Ikemefuna Nwafor, Daniel Obokhai Uduokhai, Gil-Ozoudeh Ifechukwu Desmond Stephen, Adepeju Nafisat Aransi
"Impact of Climatic Variables on the Optimization of Building Envelope Design in Humid Regions" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 1(10)
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IRE Journals is an open access online journals established with an aim to publish high quality of research work in various diciplines. We have more than 6 years in publications. Over 2500+ papers already published.
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