Masonry Magazine February 1981 Page. 24
The Best Passive Solar Heating System Under the Moon
Thanks to the unique thermal performance of masonry, it's possible to use the sun's heat to warm buildings at night.
Masonry, because of its mass or weight, absorbs heat more slowly and holds it longer than any other building material. In passive solar heating systems, masonry walls and floors collect and store the sun's heat during the day. Then, because of masonry's thermal conductivity, the stored heat is slowly radiated back into the interior at night, providing enough free warmth to substantially reduce mechanical heating requirements.
The natural energy efficiency of masonry materials-brick, concrete block, stone-is enhanced by the skill with which masonry craftsmen use them. Every wall masons build is carefully hand-fitted to reduce air infiltration and heat loss.
What's more, masonry walls and floors designed to function as elements of a passive solar heating system can serve many purposes-structural, decorative, enclosure-and they don't occupy extra living space. Masonry enables building designers to meet the demand for energy efficiency without compromising on aesthetics.
Masonry-the most beautiful building material under the sun. And the best passive solar heating system under the moon. Doesn't your next building deserve masonry?
If you'd like to know more about passive solar masonry buildings, write to the International Masonry Institute, 823 15th Street, Northwest, Washington, D.C. 20005.
INTERNATIONAL MASONRY INSTITUTE
(The Bricklayers' International Union and the Mason Contractors in the U.S. and Canada) IMI