Assessment of methods for interior insulation of thermal bridges with mineral insulation boards

Using destructive tests of gables, parapets and clearings in masonry construction, the project will examine the moisture and mold load in homes with internal insulation with mineral boards. The purpose is to 1) develop methods for accurate moisture determination, 2) carry out destructive interventions, 3) carry out moisture and mold investigations and 4) carry out hygrothermal simulations.

Destructive interventions are seen as a necessary supplement to simulations and monitoring of moisture conditions in order to assess the risk of mold growth behind internal insulation. Together with observations of the moisture conditions in the construction and assessment of the condition of the external facade, destructive interventions provide valuable data for use in validating models for assessing the hygrothermal conditions in the interface between internal insulation and existing external wall. On this basis, it will also be possible to assess in other future cases whether the internal insulation of gables, parapets and clearings is a safe method in terms of moisture.

In the project, destructive sampling methods are developed and the necessary sampling program is clarified in order to achieve representativeness in relation to building typologies, facade orientation and resident behaviour. The experimental program is carried out in a number of residential properties, where the actual sampling takes place. The measured moisture conditions are compared with hygrothermal simulations of the current constructions in order to assess the precision of the simulation under different conditions.

The project will result in a more secure basis for planning and carrying out internal post-insulation in older multi-storey dwellings with brick facades, as well as forming the basis for minimum requirements in relation to robust interior insulation. Results and experiences are collected in a BUILD report and one or more international scientific articles. The results and experience will also be used in teaching at BUILD's Master in Building Physics, BUILD courses, as well as input to SBi instructions on internal retrofitting.

The project is supported by the Landowners Investment Fund and Landsbyggefonden