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Published
2026-01-30
Section
Built and Natural Environment
How to Cite
DEVELOPING SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIVE WEATHER-RESISTANT CLADDING UNIT FOR BUILDINGS IN A TROPICAL CLIMATE
Sarfo Mensah
Kumasi Technical University
Keywords: Cladding units, plastic waste, water-resistant materials, weather elements
Abstract
Wall cladding units are expected to provide environmental, social, and structural benefits to building occupants and owners. However, the cladding systems currently in use do not offer adequate sustainability and structural benefits. This study aimed to use post-consumer plastic waste in a typical tropical climate to develop a sustainable weather-resistant wall cladding unit. In phase one of the study, a survey of 102 built environment professionals in Ghana (a tropical climatic zone) revealed that the effects of weather elements on cladding units in the study area are predominantly due to rain (moisture), temperature, and sunlight. Phase two involved the application of ASTM D618, D570, and D6954 laboratory procedures to design, mould, and test a plastic wall cladding unit of size 235 mm × 450 mm × 18 mm, resulting in the development of a weather-resistant and environmentally sustainable wall cladding unit. The selection of cladding units for buildings in tropical climates should be guided by water resistance and environmental performance. This study contributes to achieving the broader objectives of sustainable construction in developing countries.
Author Biography
Sarfo Mensah, Kumasi Technical University
Department of Construction Technology and Quantity Surveying, Faculty of Built and Natural Environment
