Impacts of multiple refurbishment strategies on hygrothermal behaviour of basement walls

Abstract

The refurbishment of existing buildings to provide thermal performance comparable to new design standards can be achieved using multiple design strategies. Although high structural thermal resistance is usually considered to be of high importance, hygrothermal conditions must be taken into account. They can significantly prolong the life of the building and avoid biological growth inside the structure as well as the indoor environment. In this study, three structures from different decades are compared from the point of view of thermal insulation performance, structural drying and mould growth, which was assessed using the Finnish mould growth model. Special interest is given to structural details that are subjected to humid conditions and details characterised by a thermal bridge, where vapour condensation can occur. The numerical computation provides a risk assessment tool for the structural elements in terms of hygrothermal performance and structural health implications.