Remodeling and Adaptive Reuse of Older Buildings

Introduction

• Increasing popularity of remodeling, renovations, and adaptive reuse of older buildings.
• Challenges in upgrading old homes, especially insulation.
• Industry push to reduce energy consumption and improve energy efficiency.
• Comfort and energy cost concerns in uninsulated homes.
• Insulation must be paired with moisture management to prevent deterioration.

Challenges with Insulation

• Heat Flow Reduction:
  • Insulation slows heat flow, reducing building’s drying potential.
  • Example: In hot, humid climates, insulation lowers A/C usage, reducing dehumidification and raising interior relative humidity, increasing condensation risks.
• Moisture Management:
  • Insulation without proper moisture management can lead to mold growth and rot.
  • Importance of balancing insulation with effective moisture control.

Benefits of New Buildings

• Complete design control and predictability in performance (thermal, moisture, and structural).
• Ability to design for specific climate and site conditions.
• Existing buildings have unpredictable conditions needing thorough examination.

Issues with Older Buildings

• Older buildings often poorly insulated or lacking insulation.
• Past maintenance, repairs, and plan deviations affect performance.
• Older materials like old growth lumber handle moisture better.

Insulation Methods and Risks

• Blown-in Cavity Insulation:
  • Easy, non-invasive method but risky without examining interior conditions.
  • Can hide continuous water staining and condensation.
• Stucco Facades and Vented Crawl Spaces:
  • High deterioration risk if not handled properly due to their structural and moisture characteristics.
• Vented Attics:
  • Proper air sealing required to prevent mold growth from air leaks and condensation.
• Mass Masonry Walls:
  • Designed to manage rainwater through storage.
  • Improper insulation reduces drying potential, causing moisture issues and structural deterioration.

Conclusion

• Insulation must be deemed appropriate based on conditions, budget, and limitations.
• Options exist to insulate properly but can be costly.
• Improper insulation can worsen conditions—caution is necessary.
• Promoting long-term durability should be key in any renovation project.

Resources

• Comprehensive moisture management guides available at A-D designs.
• Over 150 free building science articles on related topics.
• Encourages subscribing for more building science content.