The impact of different wall elements on building energy efficiency, condensation, and construction cost

This study evaluates the energy efficiency, condensation risk, and cost performance of different wall elements (polyurethane block, aerated concrete, pumice block, and horizontal perforated brick) across Turkey's four climate zones, in compliance with TS 825:2008 standards. The polyurethane block (λ:0.054 W/mK) demonstrated the highest performance, with an annual energy demand of 82 kWh/m² in Zone IV, while its high vapor resistance (Sd :18.19 m) eliminated condensation risk in all zones. Aerated concrete (λ=0.20 W/mK) and pumice block (λ=0.32 W/mK) offered balanced energy efficiency and cost but approached critical limits in Zone IV, with monthly condensation accumulations of 0.20 kg/m² and 0.22 kg/m², respectively. Horizontal perforated brick (λ: 0.33 W/mK) showed the lowest performance, with 142 kWh/m² energy demand and 0.35 kg/m² condensation. Life-cycle cost analysis revealed that while polyurethane blocks require higher initial investment, they prove most economical over 20 years. For passive house applications, polyurethane blocks (U=0.15 W/m²K) are strongly recommended, whereas aerated concrete with 4 cm EPS insulation is suitable for Zone II. The results emphasize the need for climatespecific material optimization to achieve energy efficiency and condensation control.