ZeroBuild Journal

The Effect of Window-Wall Ratio on Heat Loss and Energy Efficiency in Buildings: Comparative Analysis According to Different Glazing Systems and Climate Zones

Muhammet Emin Soyhan — 2025-01-31

This paper presents a study examining the effects of window-to-wall ratio on the energy efficiency of buildings. The study examines the degree-day zones in Turkey and different glazing types and shows how an increase in the window-to-wall ratio affects heat losses. In this study, the effect of 5 different glazing types (standard double glazing, argon-filled double glazing, triple glazing, coated double glazing, coated argon-filled double glazing) on heat losses for four different degree-day zones in Turkey according to the change of window-wall ratio from 0% to 100% is analytically calculated. Calculations were made in accordance with TS825 standard and total heat loss for each zone was analyzed separately. The findings are presented in figures and tables. In the study, it was determined that the increase in the window/wall ratio significantly increases energy consumption. It is emphasized that this effect is more pronounced especially in cold regions. In the study in which different glazing types were used, it was observed that the contribution of coated double glazing to energy efficiency came to the fore. However, it was determined that the energy saving effect of argon gas filled glasses was limited. It was determined that each 20% increase in the window/wall ratio can increase energy consumption by at least 19.5% in hot regions and 122% in cold regions. In cold climatic conditions, it is observed that the heat loss increases by 55.6 W/m² if the building facade is fully glazed. This study provides an important guide based on comprehensive and numerical data for architects and engineers who want to increase energy efficiency in building designs.

Unveiling the Critical Role of Thermal Insulation: The Diminishing Marginal Benefit Effect of Insulation Thickness

Eymen Berkin Duyar — 2025-01-31

This study investigates the effects of thickness variations in different layers of building walls on heat transfer. A four-layered wall model, consisting of interior plaster, perforated brick, expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation material, and cement-based exterior plaster, was analyzed in compliance with the TS825 standard. By increasing the thickness of each layer, the impact of these changes on the total heat loss of the wall was evaluated. The results indicate that increasing the thickness of the EPS layer significantly reduces the total heat loss of the wall, with a required thickness of 0.25 m to achieve a 95% reduction. Additionally, while the thickness of the plaster layers had a limited effect on heat loss, increasing the brick thickness resulted in an improvement of up to 11.2%. The study highlights the importance of determining the optimal thickness of wall components to enhance energy efficiency.

Financial and Tax Incentives in Green Buildings: A Comparative View of Türkiye and the World

Burcu Turhan — 2025-01-31

As global concerns about climate change and environmental sustainability intensify, the green building construction sector has emerged as a key focus for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and resource energy consumption. On the other hand, tax incentives have proven to be effective tools in promoting green building practices, while encouraging developers, investors, and property owners to adopt sustainable construction techniques incorporating with energy-efficient technologies. To this aim, this paper reviews tax incentives for green buildings in Türkiye and compares with international examples, highlighting best practices and innovative policies. This study also explores the scope and implementation of tax incentives programs, including property tax reductions, investment tax credits, accelerated depreciation schemes, and VAT exemptions, which aim to lower the financial barriers for green building adoption.

The findings of this paper suggest that integrating well-structured tax incentives with broader sustainability goals can significantly accelerate the transition to eco-friendly construction practices.