Building physics gains in importance

The challenges of today's renovation measures for structures and buildings no longer result from the mere strengthening of the load-bearing structure or the building fabric, but also from the constantly increasing requirements with regard to structural fire protection, moisture and heat protection as well as energy efficiency. Building physics issues are at the centre of our activities in the area of façade constructions in building construction (reinforced concrete, masonry and rendered façades), structures made of water-impermeable concrete, industrial and production facilities, historical structures (timber framing, masonry) and underground car parks, among others. Depending on the building materials used and the spatial and structural conditions on site, we develop an object-specific and interdisciplinary repair measure that ensures the safe and most energy-efficient operation of the building for the client.

Fire protection in existing buildings

When dealing with existing buildings, the question regularly arises as to what extent grandfathering can be claimed for the building to be repaired. However, the regulations clearly state that grandfathering can only be claimed in very specific cases: On the one hand, the building, or the part of the building under consideration, must have complied with the legal provisions in force at the time of its construction. Secondly, it must also be in the approved condition. This means that there must not have been any significant alterations or changes of use. In reality, however, such uncoordinated and unapproved conversions and changes of use are frequently encountered. It is therefore necessary to assess when these are "decisive" and require a conceptual adjustment.

• Fire protection planning, preparation of fire protection concepts and proofs
• Individual consultation and preparation of fire protection-related statements
• Local inventory and evaluation of the fire protection quality - target/actual comparison
• Heat measurement
• Taking samples of building materials and evaluating the contamination damage after a fire incident

Moisture and heat protection in existing buildings

In structures and buildings, a large proportion of the structural damage that occurs is due to the effects of water. Moisture damage is not only limited to directly watered building components such as facades and roofs, but also to building components in contact with the ground. In the case of building components in contact with the ground, moisture damage often occurs due to faulty, defective or improperly executed horizontal, vertical and joint seals, as well as secondary problems such as the formation of harmful salts, mould and fungi. In this context, the effect of moisture not only worsens the energy efficiency for ensuring a comfortable indoor climate, but also the indoor air quality (odour nuisance and risk of mould). In addition, a lack of thermal insulation itself, for example due to insufficient insulation of the building envelope or thermal bridges and leaks in the area of building connections, windows and doors, also has a significant influence on energy efficiency and a healthy and comfortable indoor climate.