Many older buildings in Switzerland consume an unnecessary amount of energy - often through Insufficient insulation and numerous thermal bridges. One Energy-efficient refurbishment provides a remedy: it improves the Indoor climate, reduced Draughts and cold surfaces and permanently reduces heating costs. Especially with Existing buildings However, complete insulation and airtightness is a challenge. This requires a Well thought-out refurbishment conceptthat is customised to the building.

Energy-efficient refurbishment: more than just insulation

Energy-efficient building refurbishment means much more than just installing new windows or adding a thicker layer of insulation. The aim is to optimise the thermal envelope of the building so that as little heat as possible is lost and at the same time moisture and mould growth are prevented. Continuous insulation and an airtight building envelope are crucial for long-term success.

Why a seamless thermal envelope is important

The thermal envelope of a building comprises all components that separate heated interior spaces from the outside world: Exterior walls, roof, windows, doors and the floor slab. Continuous insulation of these components prevents heat from escaping to the outside via so-called thermal bridges. At the same time, an airtight design ensures that there is no uncontrolled heat loss through joints or draughts.

While these requirements are relatively easy to implement in new buildings, they require precise analysis and a clear concept for existing buildings. Components such as balconies, window connections or roller shutter boxes often represent thermal bridges which, without careful planning, can lead to high energy losses, structural damage or draughts.

Typical thermal bridges and how to avoid them

1. Concreted-through balconies: Continuous concrete slabs that protrude from the heated interior to the outside conduct heat to the outside unhindered and are considered classic thermal bridges. The only solution here is often thermal decoupling, in which the balcony is structurally separated from the building and reconnected using special insulation modules. If the work involved is more extensive, the best solution may be to demolish the balcony and then build a new, insulated one.
2. Plinth insulation: The transition from the exterior wall to the floor slab is particularly susceptible to moisture and heat loss. This area is often neglected during renovations, although continuous base insulation is important to prevent mould growth and energy losses. Perimeter insulation materials that are resistant to pressure and moisture offer a reliable solution here. It is important that the base insulation is seamlessly interlocked with the façade insulation.
3. Roller shutter boxes: Old roller shutter boxes are often poorly insulated and leaky, which leads to air currents and heat loss. Modern solutions integrate roller shutter boxes into the insulation system or replace them with fully insulated versions. Alternatively, retrofitting insulation from the inside with insulation mats can help. It is crucial that the connections are airtight to prevent condensation and mould growth.

Keeping costs under control - with a refurbishment concept

Energy-efficient refurbishment can be cost-intensive if it is carried out without planning. A renovation roadmap, drawn up by an energy consultant, helps to implement measures gradually and efficiently. This involves identifying energy-related weaknesses, developing customised solutions and taking funding opportunities into account - tailored to the building, budget and priorities.

Conclusion: Keep heat in the house, reduce costs

Energy-efficient refurbishment is more than just climate protection. It increases living comfort, secures the value of your property and reduces energy costs in the long term. The decisive factor is a comprehensive refurbishment concept that recognises and eliminates typical thermal bridges. This keeps the heat where it belongs: in the house - and you save on heating costs in the long term.