Description
Joe Fixter outlines the challenges and solutions for retrofitting historic and existing buildings to enhance energy efficiency while maintaining their character and function. The discussion emphasizes building physics, moisture control, realistic performance goals, and practical insulation techniques suited for older structures.
Key Bullet Points
- Types of Refurbishment: Conservation, performance upgrades, and change of use each bring unique challenges and require collaboration between designers, contractors, and regulators.
- Energy Efficiency: Understanding heat transfer mechanisms (conduction, convection, radiation) and applying insulation with appropriate R and U values is critical.
- Moisture Management: Retrofitting without understanding existing materials can lead to condensation problems; follow standards like PAS 2035, BS5250, and EN15026.
- Internal Insulation: Can affect historic features and increase condensation risk—aerogel insulation helps mitigate this with minimal thickness.
- Air Leakage: Sealing drafts and using vapor-permeable air barriers improves efficiency more effectively than insulation alone.
- Historic Roofing: Complex roof geometries demand tailored underlays that allow moisture vapor transfer without needing added ventilation.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the physics behind heat and moisture transfer in older buildings and how it informs energy-efficient retrofit design.
- Identify retrofit strategies (e.g., aerogel insulation, vapor-permeable membranes) that improve energy performance while preserving architectural heritage.
- Apply best practice standards (PAS 2035, BS5250, EN15026) in planning and assessing retrofit projects to prevent condensation and maintain building health over time.
