Electricity and gas bills remain very high for many families, and more and more people are seeking ways to reduce their energy consumption without sacrificing comfort in their homes. This is a need not only felt by homeowners. Property managers and community presidents also need solutions that allow them to improve the efficiency of their buildings and reduce energy expenditure. Today, we focus on how to approach the energy rehabilitation of a building, a key concept for saving energy and improving the quality of life for its inhabitants.
What is the energy rehabilitation of a building?
Energy rehabilitation of a building refers to implementing improvements that reduce energy consumption and increase efficiency. These actions can include changes affecting thermal insulation, heating and cooling systems, the integration of renewable energy sources, or even the renovation of building enclosures. The goal of such reforms in apartment blocks is to reduce energy demand and, in turn, lower monthly utility costs. Some of these measures can be carried out individually in each dwelling, while other rehabilitations affect the entire structure of the building.
What are the main energy problems in buildings?
Many old buildings have energy deficiencies that affect both wallets and comfort. The main issues are:
- Poor insulation: Walls, roofs, and windows without proper insulation allow heat to escape in winter and enter in summer.
- Obsolete heating and cooling systems: Old boilers, inefficient equipment, or poor heat and cold distribution generate high energy consumption.
- Thermal bridges: Areas in the building where heat is easily lost or gained, increasing the need for climate control.
- Old windows: If not double or triple glazed, windows can be a major source of heat loss.
The combination of these problems contributes to buildings being among the highest energy consumers. This is because, in the past, they were built with little to no regard for energy efficiency. According to the 2006 Technical Building Code, nearly nine out of ten homes (86.9%) have a low energy rating of E, F, or G. However, if the Basic Energy Savings Document (DB-HE) established in 2020 were applied, these buildings should be classified as A or B, meaning almost zero energy consumption.
Will buildings be required to be energy efficient by law?
On May 8, 2024, the Official Journal of the European Union published Directive 2024/1275 on the energy efficiency of buildings (EPBD) to establish the framework in which Member States must reduce emissions and energy use in buildings. The Directive allows two years for its transposition into national regulations. Therefore, an update to the Basic Energy Savings Document (DB-HE) is expected by May 2026.
To achieve these energy objectives, the construction sector has a lot to contribute, expanding the number of zero-emission buildings and achieving climate neutrality. In fact, it is expected that emissions reductions of at least 60% in the construction sector will be achieved by 2030, thus ensuring that buildings are energy-efficient within the European Green Deal framework. The consequence will be an increased pace of rehabilitation, especially in buildings with the worst performance in each country.
Solutions to save energy in building rehabilitation
Given this scenario, it is necessary to take action and rehabilitate buildings with energy-saving solutions.
1. Improve thermal insulation
Installing insulation on façades, roofs, and floors reduces heat loss in winter and overheating in summer, saving up to 50% in energy consumption. Acting on the building’s envelope involves properly insulating the façade and roof.
2. Replace windows
Replacing old windows with models featuring double or triple glazing and thermal break improves comfort by preventing heat loss. This action is aimed at optimizing the building’s airtightness, avoiding drafts and leaks.
3. Modernize heating and cooling systems
Opting for air-to-water heat pumps, geothermal systems, or high-efficiency heat pumps significantly reduces energy consumption.
4. Integrate renewable energy
Installing photovoltaic or thermal solar panels is a sustainable solution that helps reduce dependency on the electrical grid.
5. Invest in a ceramic ventilated façade
One of the best solutions for energy rehabilitation is installing a ceramic ventilated façade.
Energy rehabilitation of buildings with a ceramic ventilated façade
The ceramic ventilated façade is an architectural envelope system that significantly improves thermal and acoustic insulation in buildings. It consists of a double skin with an air chamber between the wall and the ceramic cladding, enhancing the building’s thermal inertia and offering numerous benefits:
- Energy Savings: Reduces heat transmission into the interior in summer and prevents heat loss in winter.
- Elimination of Thermal Bridges: Improves the building’s insulation by eliminating points of energy loss.
- Increased Comfort: Regulates indoor temperature, reducing the need for heating or cooling.
- Aesthetics and Durability: Provides a modern finish to the façade with minimal maintenance requirements.
- Sustainability: Helps reduce CO2 emissions and uses 100% recyclable materials that respect the environment.
Residential buildings with ceramic ventilated façades that save energy
This residential building in Barakaldo (Bizkaia) underwent rehabilitation by installing a ceramic ventilated façade with GA30 ceramic tiles. The robustness and thickness (30 mm) of the tiles guarantee top-tier performance, mechanical resistance, and a more linear aesthetic finish. With this thermal envelope, all the building’s owners benefit from significant energy savings. The rehabilitation also resolved common issues found in poorly insulated façades.
Where to start with energy rehabilitation?
If you want to reduce your energy bills and improve the comfort of your home or building, the first step is to conduct an energy audit. This study will identify the main deficiencies of the building and allow you to define the best solutions. Additionally, there are grants and subsidies for energy rehabilitation that can cover a large portion of the renovation costs. These interventions not only improve the efficiency of buildings but also increase property value. Whether you’re an individual, property manager, or community president, now is the time to take action and turn your building into a more efficient and comfortable space.
FAVEKER®, xperts in energy rehabilitation with ceramic ventilated façades
We are experts in offering innovative, sustainable, and efficient ceramic ventilated façades. If you need advice on your rehabilitation project, contact our experts. They will guide you on the best solution for the energy rehabilitation of your building.
