Thermal Mass – Benefits Recognized

The Tahoe model

One of the first questions we are asked when someone visits us at a show is “what’s the 'R' value of your logs?" We then spend many minutes explaining the method by which the energy of the log is measured in thermal mass and not 'R' values per say. I would like to share some of this information and give you references that you can delve deeper into the subject with.

' R' value measures a material’s resistance to the transfer of heat from one side to the other. Logs have a relatively low resistance to heat transfer, and they actually absorb and store heat in their cellular structure. Thus taking a longer period of time to transfer through the material.
Thermal Mass is a material’s capacity to absorb, store and slowly release heat over time.

Back in the early 90’s the Log Home Council (LHC) set out to prove two things. First, logs have a thermal mass because of their cellular structure, bulk and thickness. Second, this thermal mass provides significant energy saving benefits because it releases heat back into the house when temperatures drop. The first study focused on heat loss through the log wall compared to a conventional framed wall. The finding was that leakage occurred in the same places as a framed house, at peak of cathedral ceilings, around window door frames and at tops of walls. It concluded that the leakage was not due to the log walls. The second study concluded that the thermal mass of log walls does significantly reduce energy use for heating in cold climates.

Therefore after 13 years the Nation’s Model Energy Code finally recognized the energy conservation benefits of thermal mass. The recognition was the goal of the LHC a part of the Building Systems Councils of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
The above is a summary of the studies carried out as interpreted by CNW Log Homes Inc; more information is available on the Internet or the NAHB’s research center.

For dealership opportunities go to www.cnwloghomes.com for more information.