Abstract
The present paper focuses on the architectural and constructional features required to ensure that building envelope renovation are safe, functional, and adaptable to the building stock, with particular focus on “plug and play” modular facade construction systems. It presents the design of one such system and how it addresses these issues. The outcome of early-stage functional test with a full-scale mock-up system, as well as its applicability to a real construction project is presented. It is found crucial to obtain high quality information about the status of the existing façade with the use of modern technologies such as topographic surveys or 3D scans and point cloud. Detailed design processes are required to ensure the compatibility of manufacture and installation tolerances, along with anchor systems that deliver flexibility for adjustment, and construction processes adapting standard installation methods to the architectural particularities of each case that may hinder its use or require some modification in each situation. This prefabricated plug and play modular system has been tested by reproducing the holistic methodology and new technologies in the market by means of real demonstrators. When compared to more conventional construction methods, this system achieves savings in a real case of 50% (time), 30% (materials) and 25% (waste), thus achieving significant economic savings.
Highlights
The objective of European public policies and recommendations for building renovation have varied over time
While initially focused on building conservation and maintenance [1], emphasis is placed on achieving more ambitious energy efficiency levels. This is relevant due to the high share of final energy consumed in buildings, 34% in Considering that new buildings represent at most 1% a year in the European Union (EU) stock [3], there is large need and potential for performance improvement in the remaining 99%
Theseare areadapted adaptedtotothe theparticulariparticularties of the building, selection of finish materials, and the required architectural design
Summary
The objective of European public policies and recommendations for building renovation have varied over time. While initially focused on building conservation and maintenance [1], emphasis is placed on achieving more ambitious energy efficiency levels. This is relevant due to the high share of final energy consumed in buildings, 34% in 2018 [2]. Roadmaps and set-plans, promote “energy refurbishment” as a top priority in current EU and national policies [4,5,6,7]. The European Commission’s (EC) recent policy report [9] provides an updated evidence-based scientific assessment overview of the impact of building renovation strategies under the Energy Efficiency
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