Comparative Evaluation of Heat Absorption and Thermal Performance of Selected Roofing Materials Sold at Abakaliki Building Materials Market, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

This study comparatively evaluated the heat absorption and thermal performance of selected roofing materials sold at the Abakaliki Building Materials Market, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The roofing materials investigated were polycarbonate roofing sheets, galvanized steel roofing sheets, fiber cement roofing sheets, and corrugated roofing sheets. The study was motivated by the need to identify roofing materials that provide better thermal comfort and reduce heat gain in buildings within the tropical climate of southeastern Nigeria. An experimental research design was adopted. Four identical test chambers were constructed and roofed separately with each of the selected materials. Temperature measurements were taken under similar environmental conditions using digital thermometers, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, tables and bar charts. The results showed that galvanized steel roofing sheets recorded the highest average indoor temperature (38.6°C), indicating the highest heat absorption and poorest thermal performance. Fiber cement roofing sheets recorded the lowest average indoor temperature (31.9°C), demonstrating the best thermal insulation performance. Polycarbonate roofing sheets recorded an average indoor temperature of 35.8°C, while corrugated roofing sheets recorded 34.2°C, indicating moderate thermal performance. The study concluded that roofing materials significantly influence indoor temperature and thermal comfort. Fiber cement roofing sheets are the most suitable among the selected materials for reducing heat transfer and improving energy efficiency in buildings located in tropical climates such as Ebonyi State. The study recommends that homeowners, architects, and builders prioritize roofing materials with low thermal conductivity and incorporate proper roof insulation and ventilation in building designs.

Comparative evaluation, heat absorption, thermal performance, roofing materials and Abakaliki Building Materials Market.

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