Structure, energy and cost efficiency evaluation of three different lightweight construction systems used in low-rise residential buildings

•Three lightweight residential construction systems are investigated in this paper.•3D sandwich panel building has better seismic resistance.•Wall and ceiling insulation values affect the building annual operational energy.•3D sandwich panel building requires lower energy for total heating and cooling.•3D sandwich panel is more economical compared to other two lightweight structures. This article presents the analysis of the structure, energy and cost efficiency of three lightweight structural systems – wood light frames (WLF), lightweight steel frames (LGSF) and 3D sandwich (3DSP) panels – during their useful life. The structural systems focussed upon in this study are commonly used in Eastern Europe with specific reference to Turkey. The structural analysis and design was carried out using ETABS while EnergyPlus was used in the analysis of the energy consumption of the buildings. The results of the structural analysis of the three alternative construction systems show that 3DSP has better structural behaviour in terms of resistance against lateral loads. The thermal performance evaluation of the walls and ceilings shows that the WLF and LGSF walls have better insulation values (12.5% lower U-value) while the roof construction of the 3DSP has much better insulation performance (70% lower U-value). Moreover, the building designed with 3DSP requires 11% less energy for total heating and cooling during one year. The information for the building industry in Turkey shows that the cost of construction for 3DSP construction is 34.6% lower than for WLF and 27.7% lower than LGSF.