Analyzing the Thermal Efficiency of Roofing Materials in Hot and Dry Climatic Conditions

Abstract

Roofing material selection plays a critical role in controlling indoor thermal comfort in hot and dry climates such as Prayagraj, northern India, where summer temperatures frequently exceed 45°C (India Meteorological Department [IMD], 2022). In such conditions, roofs are a primary source of heat gain, increasing dependence on energy-intensive cooling systems (Oke, 1987; Givoni, 1998). The objective of this study is to evaluate the thermal efficiency of traditional and modern roofing materials using U-value and R-value analysis to identify suitable passive cooling alternatives (Szokolay, 2014). The materials examined include indigenous systems such as khaprail (baked clay tiles), thatch (wild grass), bamboo mat roofing, and brick vault construction, along with commonly used modern systems such as reinforced cement concrete (RCC) slabs and galvanized iron (GI) sheets. The study adopts a analytical approach supported by secondary data obtained from literature review and established material property databases. Thermal performance is assessed through evaluation of U-values, R-values, heat transfer characteristics, and surface heat exchange behavior, along with their impact on indoor thermal comfort (Bureau of Energy Efficiency [BEE], 2017; ASHRAE, 2021). Preliminary results indicate that traditional materials such as thatch and clay tiles demonstrate higher thermal resistance and reduced heat gain compared to RCC and GI roofing systems (Singh et al., 2019). The study contributes to sustainable and climate-responsive building design by identifying energy-efficient roofing alternatives