Why Retrofit? Reasons to Retrofit a Building

As the architectural landscape evolves, the practice of retrofitting existing buildings is becoming increasingly relevant, especially in Europe. With the European Union’s ambitious goals for improving energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, and enhancing the overall quality of life, the need for sustainable building solutions is more pressing than ever. This is where retrofitting steps in as a crucial strategy, and Lunawood Thermowood emerges as an ideal material for achieving these goals.

What does it mean to retrofit a building?

Before diving into the reasons why retrofitting is a preferred option, it’s essential to clarify what retrofitting means. At its core, retrofitting refers to the process of upgrading an existing building to improve its performance, aesthetics, and comfort. This might involve installing new or modified parts or adapting the building to meet new needs that were not considered at the time of its original construction.

For architects and designers, retrofitting presents a unique opportunity to blend the old with the new, preserving the heritage of buildings while making them fit for the future. This practice is particularly important in Europe, where a significant portion of the building stock is aging and in need of modernization to meet contemporary standards.

Why Should We Retrofit Buildings?

1. Reduce Emissions

The building sector is a major contributor to global energy consumption and carbon emissions, accounting for 35% of energy use and 38% of energy-related carbon emissions. With the world aiming to curb climate change, retrofitting existing buildings offers a way to significantly reduce these figures. According to the UNEP Global Status Report 2018, energy consumption in buildings can be cut by 30 to 80% through retrofitting, with the potential for net profit over the building’s lifespan.

In Europe, where the construction industry is under pressure to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 55% by 2030 and achieve climate neutrality by 2050, retrofitting is not just a good idea—it’s a necessity. To meet these targets, the European Union requires a minimum 3% annual deep renovation rate, tripling the current rate. This emphasizes the urgent need for retrofit projects that can make existing buildings more energy-efficient.

2. Tackle Fuel Poverty

Energy efficiency is not just about reducing emissions; it also has a direct impact on energy costs and fuel poverty. By retrofitting buildings—especially through improvements like better insulation and more efficient windows—energy demand can be significantly reduced. This not only supports the EU’s climate goals but also helps to alleviate fuel poverty by lowering energy bills for occupants. Estimates suggest that by 2030, renovating roofs and walls alone could reduce energy use for residential heating by 8-11% across much of Europe.

3. Improve Health and Well-being

Retrofitting is an opportunity to enhance not just the energy performance of a building, but also the health and comfort of its occupants. Europeans spend around 90% of their time indoors, where air quality and comfort are critical. Well-designed retrofits can improve indoor air quality, which has been linked to better cognitive function and overall health. Moreover, a comfortable living environment can reduce stress and improve mental well-being, making retrofit projects beneficial on multiple levels.

4. Increase Comfort

Beyond energy savings and health benefits, retrofitting can greatly enhance the comfort of a building. This includes improvements in thermal comfort, which directly impacts both the well-being of occupants and the energy efficiency of the building. By incorporating smart technologies and better materials, such as Lunawood Thermowood, retrofits can create spaces that are not only energy-efficient but also comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.

5. Increase Resilience to Climate Change Impacts

Retrofitting can greatly enhance a building’s resilience to the increasing frequency and severity of weather events caused by climate change. By upgrading structures to withstand extreme conditions such as heat waves, flooding, high winds, gales, and tropical cyclones, retrofits help protect buildings and their occupants from the growing risks associated with a changing climate. This not only safeguards the structural integrity of buildings but also ensures a safer and more secure environment for its users.

The Role of Lunawood Thermowood in Retrofit Projects

When retrofitting buildings, the choice of materials is crucial for ensuring long-term performance and sustainability. Lunawood Thermowood stands out as an ideal material for several reasons:

• Sustainability: Lunawood Thermowood is sourced from renewable and sustainable forests, making it an eco-friendly choice with a low ecological footprint.
• Technical Performance: Thermowood offers low thermal conductivity properties and superior weather resistance, making it an ideal material for enhancing a building’s energy efficiency while ensuring long-term durability in various climatic conditions.
• Ease of Installation: Due to its lightweight and ease of use, Lunawood can be installed quickly and efficiently, reducing the disruption caused by retrofit projects.
• Aesthetics: The natural beauty of Lunawood Thermowood brings a touch of nature to any building, enhancing its visual appeal with the warm, timeless look of wood. This connection to nature not only elevates the building’s aesthetic but also contributes to a sense of well-being for its occupants and other urban people.