What term describes the ability of brick and stone to improve comfort in extreme temperatures?

The term that describes the ability of brick and stone to improve comfort in extreme temperatures is thermal mass. Thermal mass refers to materials that can absorb and store heat energy. In the context of construction, materials like brick and stone have a high thermal mass, allowing them to retain heat during colder periods and release it when temperatures drop. This property helps to stabilize indoor temperatures, making living spaces more comfortable while reducing reliance on heating and cooling systems.

Insulation primarily focuses on preventing heat transfer, whereas thermal mass works by moderating temperature fluctuations. Structural integrity relates to the strength and stability of a building's components, and veneer typically refers to a thin layer of material used for aesthetic purposes. Therefore, thermal mass is the accurate term for describing how brick and stone can enhance comfort in extreme temperature conditions.