Traditional Buildings and Energy Efficiency

In general, traditional and modern buildings differ fundamentally in how they manage moisture, air and heat.

Building techniques and materials began to change significantly in the mid-19th century. Since then, the use of industrially manufactured products has increased, and concrete, steel and cavity construction have become widespread.

While the materials of most traditional buildings have the innate capacity to regulate fluctuations in humidity and temperature, most modern buildings use construction methods and materials, such as damp-proof courses and airtightness or vapour control membranes, which create a sealed envelope to minimise exchange of moisture, air, and heat with the external environment.

A well-maintained building of traditional construction, that is adequately heated and ventilated will remain in equilibrium with its environment; however, energy efficiency interventions can affect this balance. For example, by using materials that alter the behaviour of the building fabric, or when heating or ventilation strategies are changed. This can lead to moisture accumulation problems and fabric damage. Occupants may experience ill health due to poor indoor air quality, overheating or mould growth. When planning energy efficiency interventions for a building of traditional construction it is, therefore, essential to understand the way it functions.

Climate change is impacting building performance due to increasing maximum summer temperatures, rising external humidity levels, more frequent intense rainfall events and shorter but more concentrated wind-driven rain spells. Consequently, it is increasingly important to enhance the ability of traditional buildings to buffer the internal environment against temperature and humidity fluctuations.