Figure 12 : Comparative study of temperature on the glass ( 1 ), below the glass ( 2 ) and on the black paper under the glass ( 3 )
that cracks the facades . Control joints at the areas with anticipated cracking are recommended , according to the “ Defects in Masonry Walls Guidance on Cracking : Identification , Prevention and Repair ” published by the International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction .
The use of double-glazed glass should be limited in the tropics due to the high thermal capacity of air in the air gap that retains a comparatively higher level of heat .
Conclusion and Recommendations
The adverse social and economic impacts of climate change have reached our doorstep . It is an inevitable fact that the architectural and engineering community must address the rising complaints of leakage , durability and performance issues in the built environment in Malaysia .
Besides the heat and water control measures mentioned above , building codes with consideration for flood resistant , storm proof and crack prevention designs are equally important . Such contributions must come from the joint effort of architects and structural engineers .
Although codification efforts on the climateresilient design of commercial roofs and wall assemblies have begun in some developed countries , awareness among the architectural community in building resiliency is in its infancy in Malaysia . More data and research are needed in the search for feasible ways of building resiliency , taking into account our unique conditions in the climate , design and construction practices in Malaysia .
Such resiliency in our communities and buildings can only be realised if awareness among , and co-operation from , all stakeholders in the Government , professional bodies , higher tertiary education centres , developers , contractors and the general public are raised .
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