How is thermal mass measured in a building?

Thermal mass refers to a material's ability to absorb, store, and later release thermal energy. When measuring thermal mass in a building, it is critical to focus on how effectively the materials can retain heat. High thermal mass materials, such as concrete, bricks, and stones, can store heat during the day and release it when temperatures drop, helping to regulate indoor climate and increase energy efficiency.

The other options do not directly correlate with the measurement of thermal mass. Aesthetic appeal and window quality pertain to design and performance aspects of a building but do not influence its ability to store heat. The use of insulation primarily serves to reduce heat transfer and improve energy efficiency, but it does not measure how a material handles thermal energy storage. Thus, the capacity to store thermal energy is the correct parameter for assessing thermal mass in a building.