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Acknowledgement

We hereby wish to express our sincere gratitude to our senior lecturer Archt.Ravihansa
Chandrathilake for enlightening us by giving a wise knowledge regarding the building material
and related areas. Also our lecturers Miss. Tharusha Ranadewa and Miss. Amalka Nawarathna
who made this course work a success by giving their helping hand at all time we raise our
problems.

Also we would like to extend our gratitude to officers and staff members of International
Construction Consortium (Pvt) Ltd on behalf of their dedication for our field visit.

More over our acknowledgement goes to our fellow colleagues who helped us, as well as the
library staff of the University of Moratuwa for providing us with these necessary resources.

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Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction...........................................................................................................................1

2.0 Introduction for green building materials.............................................................................2

2.1 Green Building Material Selection Criteria......................................................................3

2.2 Types of green building materials.....................................................................................4

3.0 Ulagalla Walawwa Resort....................................................................................................8

4.0 Analysis of the materials used for Ulagalla Walawwa.......................................................10

Demolished cement and masonry portions....................................................................................16

5.0 Selection criteria.................................................................................................................17

6.0 Benefits of using green building materials.........................................................................17

6.1 Less environmental impact.............................................................................................17

6.2 Aesthetic appearance.......................................................................................................18

6.3 Waste reduction...............................................................................................................18

6.4 Economical benefits........................................................................................................18

6.5 Social benefits.................................................................................................................19

7.0 Drawbacks of Green Building Materials to the Ulagalla Walawwa...................................19

8.0 Logical and physical nature of selected alternative materials............................................21

8.1 Basic Construction Materials..........................................................................................21

8.2 Flooring Materials...........................................................................................................22

8.3 Wall Coverings...............................................................................................................23

8.4 Paints and Coatings.........................................................................................................24

8.5 Windows & Doors..........................................................................................................25

8.6 Adhesives and Sealants...................................................................................................25

8.7 Roof Materials.................................................................................................................25

9.0 Conclusion..........................................................................................................................26

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10.0 References...........................................................................................................................27

Table of figures

Figure 1 . General rules of Green building material........................................................................7

Figure 2 . Ulagalla Resort................................................................................................................8
Figure 3 . Location...........................................................................................................................9
Figure 4 . Double wall thickness...................................................................................................10
Figure 6 . Stone benches................................................................................................................11
Figure 5 . Clay tile roof covering...................................................................................................11
Figure 8 . Wooden window sashes, carvings.................................................................................12
Figure 7 . Wall cladding for shaleys, hand rails........................................................................12
Figure 9 . Timber Carvings............................................................................................................13
Figure 10 . Timber posts................................................................................................................13
Figure 11 . Thatch covering...........................................................................................................14
Figure 12 . Rain water harvesting system......................................................................................15
Figure 13 . Laying natural wool insulation....................................................................................23

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1.0 Introduction

Green building concept is a highly emerging trend all over the world which is mainly focused on
sustainability. Actually it is very important concept for the surviving of buildings and other kind
of man made premises because of the upcoming ecological problems, lack of resources and
deficiency of energy resources.

Most of people have misunderstood this concept as a simple one, just including plating trees
inside and outside of building. But it is a complex one which has wide scope. Using green
building materials for constructing building is one important element in this concept. Straw,
bamboo, clay, timber and non toxic paints are common green building materials used by
architects, construction contractor for their building. But there is large number of uncommon
materials such as natural fibers.

The report consists with two main chapters. Chapter one, literature review includes introduction
for green building material and types of green building material as well as its special
characteristics. It provides overall idea about green materials.

Chapter two consists a case study about Ulagalla Walawwa Resort, Anuradhapura. It is one of
the most famous green buildings in Sri Lanka which has certified by LEED and Green Building
Council, Sri Lanka. Case study contains all details about green material used in this building.
Also selection criteria, nature of materials, pros and cons and alternative materials and its nature
have discussed under sub topics.

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2.0 Introduction for green building materials

The concept of sustainable building incorporates and integrates a variety of strategies during the
design, construction and operation of building projects. The use of green building materials and
products represents one important strategy in the design of a building. Green building materials
are composed of renewable, rather than nonrenewable resources. Green materials are
environmentally responsible because impacts are considered over the life of the product

Using green building materials and products promotes conservation of dwindling nonrenewable
resources internationally. In addition, integrating green building materials into building projects
can help reduce the environmental impacts associated with the extraction, transport, processing,
fabrication, installation, reuse, recycling, and disposal of these building industry source
materials.

A large number of factors influence material choice in construction, with on balance, cost
remaining the overarching priority. Function and design influences (of which cost was
considered a factor), were found to have the strongest influence on material choice. Following
are the Selection Criteria of materials in a normal building.

• Aesthetic Quality

• Durability

• Ecological Impact

• Performance

• Social Impact

• Cost

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2.1 Green Building Material Selection Criteria

Green Building Guide makes it easy to be aware of the lowest cost green rebuilding techniques,
focusing on energy efficiency, water savings and indoor air quality. When choosing materials for
the green construction Choose materials that minimize environmental and health impacts during:
Resource Extraction, Manufacturing, Packaging and Transportation, Installation, Operation,
Disposal (Recycle/ Reuse)

Following are the selection criteria for green building materials

 Reduce demands on nonrenewable resources:

• Reduce dependence on fossil fuels in production, transportation and operation
• Reduce the use of old growth timber (Utilize juvenile timber products and wood
alternatives those are toxin-free)
• Utilize salvaged products
• Be recyclable
• Contain recycled materials, preferably from post consumer waste
• Contain agricultural waste material
• Be energy and water efficient
• Be natural or minimally processed
 Reduce environmental degradation:
• Minimize habitat and watershed degradation
• Utilize alternatives to ozone depleting substances
• Utilize alternatives to polyvinyl chlorides (PVCs)
 Be free of toxic or harmful substances:
• Minimize the use of preservatives
• Minimize the use of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other toxins that
reduce indoor air quality
• Block development and spread of indoor contaminants
• Not contain pesticides

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• Not cause harm to humans, animals and the environment in extraction,

manufacture, installation and demolition
 Help to reduce waste:
• Utilize salvaged materials
• Be designed to be dismantled and reused
• Avoid excess packaging
• Be efficiently designed; use modular building materials as standards
• Be exceptionally durable and have low maintenance requirements
 Be third party certified Examples of certifying organizations and labels are:
• Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)
• Green Seal
• Scientific Certification Systems (SCS)
• Energy Star

Green building materials offer specific benefits to the building owner and building occupants:

 Reduced maintenance/replacement costs over the life of the building.

 Energy conservation.
 Improved occupant health and productivity.
 Lower costs associated with changing space configurations.
 Greater design flexibility.

2.2 Types of green building materials

Green building is about making the best use of resources during all stages of construction. By
combining a system of components and materials that work in harmony with one another, the
goal is to create an energy-efficient, water-saving structure with a low carbon footprint. While
selecting the right materials is a large part of green building, choosing the best materials may not
be obvious and will depend on the needs of the building owner. However, not all green materials
carry a green label or are part of a green rating system. The choice of materials depends on the

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criteria of the builder or owner. There are common materials used in green construction. Some
are new and cutting-edge, while others have been used in construction for centuries.

The Framing and Building Structure

 Wood - engineered wood is very common on both green and conventional homes. It uses
wood scraps and smaller trees to produce framing that’s stronger than traditional
sawn logs. Engineered wood allows the builder to use less wood per structure and
make use of wood scraps that would otherwise go to waste.
 Structural insulated panels (SIPS) - Those panels are composed of foam insulation
sandwiched between two sheets of oriented strand board (OSB). SIPS
construction is typically slightly more expensive than conventionally built
structures.
 Insulated concrete forms (ICF) - While concrete has a very high embodied energy
relative to most building materials; many consider it a green material for its
longevity and durability.
 Straw bale - The buildings offer excellent insulation and sound-deadening properties.
They are surprisingly resistant to fire due to the inability of air to flow through the
straw bales.
 Earthen structures - Constructed from dirt, gravel, clay, and lime, and often harvested
locally, these homes offer a durable and well-insulated building

Insulation

 Fiberglass — however, super insulating a structure beyond building-code requirements is

a fundamental principle of green building. Many green builders take advantage of the low
cost and ease of installation to super insulate and save money that they can use for other
green features.
 Cellulose — made from recycled paper, cellulose is the second most common insulation
it is relatively inexpensive, with costs similar to fiberglass.

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 Natural fiber (cotton, wool) — Cotton insulation is typically made from recycled cotton
fibers

Roofing

 Steel — Steel roofing (both panels and shingles) is an increasingly popular green choice
because of its high recycled content and longevity.
 Slate/stone — these natural materials are excellent green choices but are very expensive
due to both material and labor considerations.
 Composites —Composites are frequently made from recycled materials and so have a
lower embodied energy than materials that must be mined.

Exterior Siding

 Wood — Wood is a traditional siding choice and, when properly designed and detailed,
remains a reliable green building choice
 Fiber cement — this material is made from wood, sand, and Portland cement. Fiber
cement offers excellent durability and fire resistance and is less expensive than many
common wood choices.
 Composites — Composite materials such as plastics and vinyl are not inherently green
materials.

Interior Finishes

 Natural clay plaster — Natural clay plasters are a green alternative to the more common
gypsum-based plasters.
 Natural fiber flooring — Whatever type of flooring is desired, there are green
alternatives. Rugs and carpets are available in natural materials such as wool and cotton,
while wood and other solid alternatives such as bamboo and cork offer high durability
and/or sustainable harvesting methods.
 Paperless drywall — Paperless drywall helps saves on deforestation by eliminating the
paper surface manufactured from trees.

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Heating and Air Conditioning

 Geothermal — Heat pumps can provide heating and cooling to a building using a fraction
of the energy of a conventional system.
 Solar hot water — solar water heating has been commercially available for decades for
domestic hot water needs, but these systems can be used as the primary source of space
heating as well when coupled with radiant flooring.

Figure 1 . General rules of Green building material

2.3 Embodied energy of materials

Embodied energy of material is the sum of the all the energy consumed by production process of
a material. Following table provides data about several materials which are used in building
construction.

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Energy Carbon Density

Material
MJ/kg kg CO2/kg kg /m3
Aggregate 0.083 0.0048 2240
Concrete (1:1.5:3 eg in-situ floor slabs, structure) 1.11 0.159 2400
Concrete (eg in-situ floor slabs) with 25% PFA RC40 0.97 0.132  
Concrete (eg in-situ floor slabs) with 50% GGBS
0.88 0.101  
RC40
Bricks (common) 3.0 0.24 1700
Concrete block (Medium density 10 N/mm2)) 0.67 0.073 1450
Aerated block 3.50 0.30 750
Rammed earth (no cement content) 0.45 0.023 1460
Limestone block 0.85   2180
Marble 2.00 0.116 2500
Cement mortar (1:3) 1.33 0.208  
Steel (general - average recycled content) 20.10 1.37 7800
Steel (section - average recycled content) 21.50 1.42 7800
Steel (pipe - average recycled content) 19.80 1.37 7800
Stainless steel 56.70 6.15 7850
Timber (general - excludes sequestration) 10.00 0.72 480 – 720
Glue laminated timber 12.00 0.87  
Sawn hardwood 10.40 0.86 700 – 800
Cellular glass insulation 27.00    
Cellulose insulation (loose fill) 0.94 – 3.3   43
Cork insulation 26.00*   160
Glass fibre insulation (glass wool) 28.00 1.35 12
Flax insulation 39.50 1.70 30*
Rockwool (slab) 16.80 1.05 24
Expanded Polystyrene insulation 88.60 2.55 15 – 30*
Polyurethane insulation (rigid foam) 101.50 3.48 30
Woodwool board insulation 20.00 0.98  
Wool (recycled) insulation 20.90   25*

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Straw bale 0.91 100 – 110*

Mineral fibre roofing tile 37 2.70 1850*
0.006 –
Slate (UK – imported) 0.1 – 1.0 1600
0.058
Clay tile 6.50 0.45 1900
Aluminium (general & incl 33% recycled) 155 8.24 2700
Bitumen (general) 51 0.38 - 0.43  
Hardboard 16.00 1.05 600 – 1000
MDF 11.00 0.72 680 – 760*
OSB 15.00 0.96 640*
Plywood 15.00 1.07 540 - 700
Plasterboard 6.75 0.38 800
Gypsum plaster 1.80 0.12 1120
Glass 15.00 0.85 2500
PVC (general) 77.20 28.1 1380
PVC pipe 67.50  24.40 1400*
Linoleum 25.00 1.21 1200
Vinyl flooring 65.64 2.92 1200
Terrazzo tiles 1.40 0.12  1750*
Ceramic tiles 12.00 0.74 2000
Carpet tiles, nylon (Polyamide), pile weight 770g/m2 279 MJ/m2 13.7 / m2  4.6 kg/m2
Wool carpet 106.00 5.53  
Wallpaper 36.40 1.93  
Wood stain / varnish 50.00  5.35  
Vitrified clay pipe (DN 500) 7.90 0.52  
Iron (general ) 25 1.91 7870
Copper (average incl. 37% recycled) 42 2.60 8600
Lead (incl 61% recycled) 25.21 1.57 11340
Ceramic sanitary ware 29.00 1.51  
 

Windows

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MJ per
1200 x 1200 2x glazed, air or argon filled kg CO2
window
Aluminium frame 5470 279
PVC frame 2150 - 2470 110 – 126
Aluminium clad timber frame 950 - 1460 48 – 75
Timber frame 230 - 490 12 – 25
230 - 490 12 – 25
Krypton filled add: 510 26
Xeon filled add: 4500 229

 
Paint

 
Energy Carbon
Material
MJ/m2 kg CO2/m2
Water-borne paint 59.0 2.12
Solvent-borne paint 97.0 3.13

 
Photovoltaic (PV) cells

 
Energy Carbon
Material
MJ/m2 kg CO2/m2
Monocrystalline (average) 4750 242
Polycrystalline (average) 4070 208
Thin film (average) 1305 67

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3.0 Ulagalla Walawwa Resort

UlagallaWalawwa Resort, Anuradhapura is a one of the famous well-known hotel in Sri Lanka
which is situated in ancient area in an Anuradhapura. Nestled in a village in the ancient kingdom
of Anuradhapura, Ulagalla Resort collides a previous era with the modern comforts of the
present and tucked away in the lush landscape by the Ulagalla Lake. The Resort is a historic
mansion transformed into a modern haven. Combining tradition with technology, the resort
embraces privacy, individuality, indulgence and satisfaction.Mainly green materials were used
for construction, with the walls, floors and ceilings of each chalet being built with ‘Durra’
panels.

Figure 2 . Ulagalla Resort

Resort has been awarded the LEED -SILVER , 2010 (Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design) Certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).This is the first boutique
hotel in Sri Lanka to receive the LEED certification.

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Owner – Finco Holdings (Pvt) Ltd.

Construction Contractor - International Construction Consortium (Pvt) Ltd

LEED consultant – Energy Solve Interntional

Location - Dambulla Anuradhapura Road,Thirappane, Anuradhapura, 50072, Sri Lanka

Figure 3 . Location

The measures that Ulagalla Resort implemented, that

 Potable water saving of 250,000 gallons per annum (45% saving from the baseline) from
efficient flow/flush fixtures and rainwater harvesting up to 1.5 million gallons per annum.
 Energy saving of 1000Mbtu per annum (27% saving from the baseline)
 Installation of 125kW Photovoltaic panel to generate renewable energy that meets 50% of
energy demand of the facility.
 90% of construction waste diverted to landfill.
 Location material accounted for 40% of material used for construction.
 Use of durra boards for construction which is made out of rapidly renewable materials to
promote sustainable material use.

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 An Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan (ESC) conforming to the 2003 EPA
Construction General Requirement implemented.
 Native plants used for the landscape to minimize the installation of a permanent irrigation
system.
 Waste storage constructed to encourage storage and segregation of recyclables.
 Window openings provide views for 90% of all regularly occupied spaces.
 Energy meters installed to monitor savings at regular intervals.
 Extensive use of bicycles and electric cars to reduce emissions created by using vehicles
for transportation.
 Construction of a waste water treatment plant and use of treated water for irrigation
purposes in the dry season.
 Stormwater quantity control with the use of large stormwater detention ponds to prevent
runoff from the site.
 Hot water requirement made available with a heat recovery system used in air-
conditioning.

4.0 Analysis of the materials used for Ulagalla Walawwa

Clay

Bricks/ roof tiles

As the bricks if reclaimed bricks are not suitable, then perforated ordinary clay bricks are best.
As the ulagalla walawwa is 99 years old, burned clay has been used for its construction. Material
for bricks is clay. Roof covering in walawwa is done with clay tiles (Sinhala type) and in shaleys
roof covering includes a thatch

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Figure 4 . Double wall thickness

Figure 5 . Clay tile roof covering

Mortar

Pure lime mortar

Stones

Local stones

Figure 6 . Stone benches

Timber

Sustainability is at the top of the agenda for timber, as for no other industry. Timber is used in
ulagalla walawwa for the following items.

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Cladding

Increasingly timber cladding is specified as the weathering envelope for walls. Timber is
renewable, reusable, and biodegradable and it has minimal embodied energy.it helps to increase
the aesthetic appearance.

Figure 7 . Wall cladding for shaleys, hand

rails

Floor decking

For the shaleys seasoned natural timber has been used. Non toxic timber preservatives are used.

Roofing

Roofing of both walawwa and shaleys seasoned natural timber without toxic preservatives used
for the entire roof structure.

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Doors and windows

Doors and windows in walawwa, consist with timber sashes. Window frames are decorated with
wooden carvings.

Figure 8 . Wooden window sashes, carvings

Figure 9 . Timber Carvings

Other than that, as the supports of the roof structure, timber posts have been used.

Figure 10 . Timber posts

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Dura

● Roof covering / walls

Solar gain through walls and roof is minimized using Dura (Compacted Rice Straw panel)
double wall, Styrofoam, air gap between two layers (roof), thatch, extending the eaves,
light color walls and roof and planting the trees around the chalets. In shaleys, walls are
covered with a straw panel to reduce the solar gain. Half walls are constructed for natural
ventilated area.

The Overall Heat Transfer Value is 40 W/m²K. “Dura” Building Board (Solid building
panel, compressed rice straw) is used for ceiling and some walls. Dura has very high
thermal resistance of 0.62 m²K/W.

Figure 11 . Thatch covering

PVC

● Rain water harvesting system

Rain Water harvesting mean collection, preservation and obtaining use of rain water. It
makes financial an ecological sense not to waste the natural resource available in large
quantity and Encourage water conservation and self dependence. Compare to the well
water, hardness is very low. Those are the advantages from the rain water harvesting. In
the rain water harvesting systems panels receive the rainfall and drain the water to the
delivering system. Initial rain contains acidity due to the presents of SO 2 (Sulfur Dioxide)
CO2 and etc. Also impurities in the panel cost the dirt water. Delivering system of gutter

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collects the water from the panels and transfer to the storage reservoir. Dirt water
automatically transferred to 500L capacity tank and ensures the separating flush first.
After the first flushing, a valve opens to store the good water in 40000L tanks. Acid water
which store in 500L capacity tank is delivered to the land safely. Water stored in 40000L
is used potable water after treatment of Reverse Osmosis Plant (RO Plant).

The raw materials for pvc are crude oil, natural gas and sodium chloride. Here pvc is used
because, it is a recyclable material.

Figure 12 . Rain water harvesting system

●Sewer and Waste Water Treatment Plant

The Capacity of the plant is 30,000 liters Sewer, Bathroom, Laundry and Kitchens are
connected to STP. Treated water is connected Irrigation System (Garden).for the
construction of this plant pvc has been used.

●Water Pre-Treatment Plant

The Capacity of the plant is 40,000 liters per 18 hours. Hardness of the treated water is
less than 250 mg/l. The treated water is fed to RO plant and Back of House Bath
Rooms. For the construction of this plant, distribution pvc has been used.

●Electrical fittings and appliances

Distribution of electrical wires is done through pvc pipes.

Concrete related materials

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Concrete posts have been used for construction of shaleys, some of these shaleys are placed in
watered areas. Environment preferable concrete mixture is used. Pozzalanic admixtures have
been used. There are concrete posts in walawwa.

Paints and coatings

Weather shield/ emulsion paints not consist toxic s are used for wall painting of wallawwa other
than that as the wood preservative paints ,enamel paints water based wood applications are used.
Low emitting paints used for the inside of the building.

Glass

For shaleys walls are consisting with glass panels. Objective of using glass is to have natural
lighting. But save thermal comfort of people.

Ceramic tiles

Floor covering outside of the wallawwa the main building, has used ceramic tiles.

Demolished cement and masonry portions

Crushed material used for filling under floors as recyclable material. So expected not to release
such material to the environment. So the concept of eco friendly has been kept.

Wool

Carpets are made of wool. The best green buy is wool carpet with hessian backing, using
recycled felt underlay, or other natural products.

Metals

●Brass

For the front gate, brass lock has been used. Other than that for the decorative work
inside the building, brass lamps are used.

●Aluminum

Aluminum wires are used to construct the hand rails of the shaleys.

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5.0 Selection criteria

6.0 Benefits of using green building materials

Using green building materials for constructing building have become common because it offers
large amount of benefits spread in various sections. In the Ulagalla Walawwa Resort, following
facts can be identified as major advantages.

6.1 Less environmental impact

Ulagalla resort is a 99 years old building and therefore most of material used for building were
taken from very common natural resources. Instead artificial chemical or mechanical processes
environment friendly processes have been used to convert those raw materials in to construction
materials. So the impact to the environment has reduced.

Bricks / Roof tiles- Made from cured clay taken from the soil and burn them to increase
the strength. No chemical contaminants are included.

Straw - Disposing item after harvesting.

Steel - Steel can be reused over and over again. Also it has high durability

Aluminum - Durability is high.

 Temperature moderation

The heat retention properties of resort buildings has increased by using green materials
such as straw and clay roof tiles. Compacted straw panels has minimized solar gain
through the walls and the roof. In that way inside of the building has achieved better
thermal comfort by green materials.

 Emissions Reduction

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There is no emission of toxic or other kind of volatile compound to the environment

because all paints used for buildings are non taxied paints and also its don't contain
volatile compounds. Also toxic materials hasn't use even for timber preservation.

6.2 Aesthetic appearance

Building has constructed in a tropical vegetation land. Green building materials has helped to
increase natural appearance of the building while reducing the artificial nature. So building can't
be looked like a separated part from environment and it also like a part of environment. As an
example,

Dry straw has added golden colour to the building. Also stones have added conventional nature
the building and as well as reflective surface of materials have created perfect colour matching
for exterior of building.

Then timber is another material used in the buildings. Seasoned timber which has been used for
doors and windows, wood carvings has increased classical view of the building.

6.3 Waste reduction

Resort is enclosed by a large paddy field yard. Straw is one of the material removed from paddy
fields as a unwanted thing. But using straw as a roof covering material has given solution for
this waste. Also those straw covers can be renewable, that means replaced one or two times per
year without economical loss.

When consider about steel and Aluminum, those material can be reused.

6.4 Economical benefits

Energy saving is one of the important benefit achieved by using green building materials.
Specially Sinhala type clay roof tiles, straw roofing and compacted straw panels create more and
more thermal comfort environment. So energy using for mechanical ventilation systems can be
reduced in a considerable level.

Clay and straw are very common material which can be taken from environment easily. So cost
for material is less. Durability of burnt clay bricks and seasoned timber is very high so that no

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need to renovate them regularly. Straw panels and roofing are needed renovations after
sometime, but the material is common and cost for material is very law when comparing with
other non-green materials.

6.5 Social benefits

Shifting to green building materials is a new concept in nowadays. So demand of guest for the
resort have been increased by considerable level. Also natural material which haven't toxic
content reduce the health problems

7.0 Drawbacks of Green Building Materials to the Ulagalla

Walawwa
There are some drawbacks of the material which have been used in the selected resort.
Followings are the draw backs of each materials.

Bricks

 Extreme weather may cause degradation of the surface due to frost damage. This type of
damage is common with certain types of brick, though relatively rare with concrete
block. If non-concrete (clay-based) brick is to be used, care should be taken to select
bricks suitable for the climate in question.

 Masonry must be built upon a firm foundation (usually reinforced concrete) to avoid
potential settling and cracking. If expansive soils (such as adobe clay) are present, this
foundation may need to be quite elaborate and the services of a qualified structural
engineer may be required.

 Brick adds a lot of weight to the foundation.

 Masonry boasts an impressive compressive strength (vertical loads) but is much lower in
tensile strength (twisting or stretching) unless reinforced.

 Initial cost is very high.

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Pure lime mortar

If shrinkage and cracking of the lime mortar does occur this can be as a result of either

 The sand being poorly graded or with a particle size that is too small
 The mortar being applied too thickly (Thicker coats increase the possibility of shrinkage,
cracking and slumping)
 Too much suction from the substrate
 High air temperatures or direct sunlight which force dry the mortar
 High water content in the lime mortar mix

Stones

 Some stones such as marble and granite have disadvantages in that they stain easily.
 Stone is also the most expensive form of masonry.

Timber

 Water can be absorbed into the material, causing it to rot and mold
 Easy to burn
 Using timber frames can lead wildlife extinct
 Slight chance of dry rot or wood worm if the timber is not treated properly in the first
place
 Noise from footsteps in adjacent rooms above, below, and on the same floor in such
buildings can be quite audible

Clay tiles

 Absorb the heat.

 Due to reflection of the lighting glare impact will be caused.

 Installation of clay tiles requires experienced, trained contractors. Clay tiles are more
difficult to install than other types of roof materials and must be properly installed to

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withstand rain, severe weather and cycles of freezing and thawing. Manufacturers
recommend horizontal and vertical overlap values to ensure that water does not penetrate
between the tiles. Tiles must be properly anchored to flashings and eaves to protect
underlying roof material.

 If clay roof tiles leak, the underlying roof structure can be damaged. Leaks can travel
beyond the source of the breakage or gap, so when replacing tiles or repairing leaks it is
important to examine adjacent areas.

 tiles are breakable. Once installed, tiles should be walked on with care. If roof access is
required, tiles should be removed or boards placed across a span of tiles to distribute
weight. The most common reason for breakage is from falling tree limbs.

 Clay tile is not recommended for low-pitch roofs. Clay roof tiles can be heavy, so must
have good roof and wall support. Some manufacturers offer light-weight clay tiles that
weigh less than 600 pounds per square in compliance with many building code
requirements for reroofing.

PVC

 PVC production is highly hazardous to workers.

 Chemicals released during PVC production, use and disposal, are highly persistent,
bioaccumulative, and contribute to global pollution.

 PVC is an environmentally persistent organ chlorine chemical that does not readily biodegrade.

 PVC products used in indoor environments harm indoor air quality.

 Products made out of PVC are difficult to recycle.

 Accidental fires in buildings or at landfills containing PVC-based materials are a significant

source of environmental pollution

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8.0 Logical and physical nature of selected alternative materials

8.1 Basic Construction Materials

Burnt Bricks

Brick and wood are suitable for both city and country residences. Brick works well in cold
climates. It retains natural heat and stays warm a long time. This is especially true for properties
and houses exposed to continuous sunlight. Brick protects well against storms and is a reliable
option where storms are a threat.

The Romans invented the burnt brick after clay pottery was hardened by firing in closed kilns
learnt from the Mesopotamians some 8000 years ago. Brick that has been treated in a kiln at an
elevated temperature to harden it, give it mechanical strength, and improve its resistance to
moisture. Bricks be burnt at high temperatures because then it wouldn't burn if it was a low
temperature.

Timber although exposure, if not treated right will lead to rot and unsightly deterioration. one
must allow for the movement of wood. It contracts and shrinks depending on dampness and
humidity. Woodworm can be the end if a timber framed house so it needs treating properly.
Exterior wood will need painting or re staining every 5 years so that can be a drag. It can be high
maintenance.

8.2 Flooring Materials

Natural wool insulation

Wool insulation is made nearly entirely from sheep’s wool, the fibres of which are either
mechanically bonded together or bonded with a polyester adhesive. Wool batts are very
environmentally friendly to manufacture, and are both sustainably produced and biodegradable.
Having said that though, the polyester used to bond some types of natural wool batts together can
counteract the positive environmental benefits.

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Figure 13 . Laying natural wool insulation

Wool is designed to keep sheep warm, and does just as good a job for them as it'll do for your
home. Wool fibres are naturally crimped, which traps the air into lots of tiny pockets. Air is an
excellent insulator, as it doesn't conduct heat well. Wool itself is also a poor conductor, which
gives it a slight advantage over mineral and glass wool batts. The crimping in the fibres also
helps the natural wool batt retain its shape and stability over time, instead of breaking down and
compressing or flattening like other materials do.

Wool has been used as a heat insulator since sheep were invented, and is one of the most
effective natural insulators around.Wool is a good sound insulator, though its effectiveness is
directly related to its thickness.Wool is a naturally fire retardant fibre.

8.3 Wall Coverings

Gypsum wallboard

Gypsum wallboard board can use for wall as well as roof coverings. It has number of
advantages. Such as,

 Ease of installation
Gypsum board building systems are easy to install for several reasons. Gypsum
board panels are relatively large compared to other materials. Gypsum board
assemblies require only a few tools for their construction. 

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 Fire resistance
Gypsum board is an excellent fire-resistive building material. It is the most
commonly used interior finish where fire resistance classifications are required.
Its noncombustible core contains nearly 21% chemically combined water.
 Sound isolation
Preventing the transfer of unwanted sound to adjoining areas is a key
consideration when designing a building, specifically when taking into account
the intended activities of the occupants in the various parts of the building.
 Durability
Gypsum board is used to construct strong, high quality walls and ceilings that
offer excellent dimensional stability and durability. Surfaces created using
gypsum board are easily decorated and refinished.
 Economy
Gypsum board is readily available and easy to apply. It is an inexpensive wall
surfacing material that provides a fire resistant interior finish. Gypsum board
building systems can generally be installed at significantly lower labor costs than
most alternate systems.
 Versatility
Gypsum board satisfies a wide range of architectural requirements for design.
Ease of application, performance, ease of repair, availability, and its adaptability
to all forms of decoration combine to make gypsum board unmatched by any
other surfacing product.

8.4 Paints and Coatings

Titanium Paints

Titanium nitride-coated valves reduce wear on high-performance automotive valves. These

micro-thin ceramic-like coatings provide a harder, heat-resistant surface for valves, giving

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greater hardness and corrosion resistance.

8.5 Windows & Doors

Energy saving doors and windows

If use composite frame materials other than woods, composite Strong; resistant to
warping, fading, and denting.
If use fiber glasses as frame material, it provides better insulation than wood or vinyl
frames.
By using vinyl frame material there is a great against moisture retention and it is widely
available.
But if use wood, Bulkier and requires more maintenance than other frame materials; must
be clad with metal or vinyl to improve ease of care. So composite, fiber glasses and vinyl
frame materials are superior than wood.

8.6 Adhesives and Sealants

Low-emission sealants for interior use

Low-emission sealants for interior use are safe to use in the living environment, manufactured
without the use of carcinogenic or mutagenic substances and no harmful anti-mould agents in the
sanitary facilities.

Silicone and other joint sealing materials are high-performance construction materials protecting,
for example, the bathroom from water seepage for many years. This property requires a complex
mixture of chemicals, such as plasticizers or anti-mould agents. However, from the perspective
of environmental protection and health the pollutant impact of such sealants on indoor areas must
be low in order to guarantee the lowest possible emissions from these products.

8.7 Roof Materials

Clay roof tiles

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Instead of using thatch can use clay roof tiles, because of the many advantages of clay tile
roofing, it durability is probably the biggest one. Any roofing material that can last for over 100
years has to be good! Another advantage is that it is available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and
colours, unlike regular shingles, adding more character and interest to the appearance of your
home. It also has reflective properties, which help to increase the efficiency of heating and
cooling systems. This type of material is not susceptible to mold or rot, can withstand hurricane-
force winds, and does not shrink and expand with the temperature like wood.

Thatched roofs are more susceptible and vulnerable to the risk of fire when compared to other
materials. Before installing the roof, make sure to keep the area clear of candles, kitchen
appliances that provide fire and any other items that could create a burning reaction. Because
thatch is a natural and organic material that is rarely treated with components to preserve the
freshness of the material, thatch is also at risk for decay and decomposition. Make sure to take
the appropriate precautions to avoid this process from taking place. It is also best to hose off the
thatch roof a couple times a year to prevent buildup. Ask the thatch roofing expert about what
types of sprays and treatments work best.

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9.0 Conclusion

Nowadays green building concept is a new trend used for building construction all over the
world. It is the turning point to the sustainability through achieving energy efficiency, water
efficiency, using green materials and other kind of eco friendly methods.

Ulagalla Resort is first green resort in Sri Lanka which has awarded by LEED certificate. Before
the construction works started, mother company has focused on achieving LEED certification
and so that support of LEED consultant have been taken.

Material and resources is one of the main element in the LEED scorecard and Ulagalla Resort
have achieved 4 of 15 for it. Lack of materials Not using any kind of special green materials
which are mentioned as alternatives can be the reason for reduction of the marks for this section.
However using green materials for building have been helped achieved very important benefits
which are spread in a wide range such as economical, social ,cost effective and eco friendly.

As well as the benefits there are some disadvantages of green material. High fire risk, decaying
quickly, high cost and lack of resources are critical tasks among them. Some of the alternative
materials mentioned under the last topics can be used instead of currently used materials to
minimize above stated drawbacks. But when comparing benefits and drawbacks, drawbacks are
non considerable. Also there are modern technologies to prevent those drawbacks.

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10.0 References

 Anon (2013) Green building [online]. [Accessed 20thApril, 2013].Available at:

<http://www.calrecycleca.gov/green Building/en.wikipedia.org/

 Johnston, D., and Gibson. S, (2008), Green from the Ground up, Sustainable, Healthy,
and Energy-Efficient Home Construction, Taunton Press, Inc, United States.

 Lechner, N. (2009), Heating, Cooling, Lightning, Sustainable Design Methods for

Architects, John Wiley & Sons, Inc, Canada.

 Meisel, A. (2010), LEED Materials, A resource Guide to Green Building, Princeton

Architectural Press, New York.

 Wooly, T., and Kimmins, S. (2000), Green Building Handbook, E & FN spoon; New
York.
 Yudelson, J. (2010), Greening Existing Building, McGraw- hill companies, United States.

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