Modelling hygrothermal performance of roof and floor structures with an energy-efficient constant output heating

Abstract

In order to improve the energy efficiency of summer cottages in Finland, the effects of a constant output heating in unoccupied cottages are studied. The idea is to apply a minimum amount of energy in order to avoid moisture-related damages on structures and movables. The modelling results of most commonly applied roof and floor structures in Finnish summer cottages show that heating is not always necessary, but in some cases, depending on structure’s materials, ventilation and vapour barrier, the hygrothermal performance may need heating so that the indoor temperature is kept at 3–5°C above the outdoor temperature.