Temperature and Humidity: Key Metrics of Comfort Living

When discussing stone buildings, comfort emerges as one of the most crucial factors for a livable environment. A comfortable home is one where we feel healthy, where fresh air flows constantly, and where mold is absent. The coziness of a home largely depends on its ability to maintain the desired temperature and level of humidity—warm in winter and cool in summer.

A vital aspect of this comfort is thermal inertia, which refers to the materials' ability to store or release heat. High thermal inertia effectively mitigates sharp temperature fluctuations that can be uncomfortable for occupants. However, not all stone buildings can provide this effect; thermal inertia depends significantly on the mass of the materials used, making wall thickness a critical consideration. Archaeological research indicates that the optimal wall thickness ranges from 1 meter to 2.5 meters for effective insulation and structural integrity, allowing for the use of properly selected stones to create a strong structure.

Thick walls are perceived not only as sturdy structures but also as effective thermal batteries. When the interior of a building warms up, the stone walls absorb this heat and gradually release it back into the space. During hot summer days, these walls play a significant role in preserving coolness by resisting the penetration of external heat. This thermal lag effect is essential for maintaining a fresh and comfortable atmosphere in the evenings.

Furthermore, the construction of stone walls often includes small voids or niches between the stones, creating a network of air pockets. This structure provides an additional air barrier that you would not find in solid concrete walls or even in brick walls, where any existing spaces are significantly smaller. The presence of these niches enhances the insulation properties of stone walls, contributing to overall energy efficiency.

The choice of mortar is equally important. For instance, lime mortar, unlike concrete, allows walls to "breathe" and does not trap moisture. This characteristic helps prevent dampness within the interior. It is crucial to select a mortar that has the right sand-to-lime ratio to ensure that the walls have a longer lifespan and are less susceptible to water damage.

Therefore, we also consider the use of arch constructions, where wall thickness is consistent on all sides, and there is no need for a roof, which can be vulnerable to the scorching sun.