Performance of insulation materials for historic buildings: case-studies comparing super insulation materials and hemp-lime

Paper in proceeding, 2018

There is a challenge to reduce the energy use of historic buildings while preserving their cultural values. New materials and solutions are being developed that could contribute to improving the energy performance of historic buildings without altering their character defining elements. The aim of this paper is to technically evaluate and compare a ‘high-tech’ material (VIP) with a ‘low-tech’ material (hemp-lime) for adding insulation to historical façades. This comparison was made with respect to thermal properties and moisture performance, as well as available environmental impact data. The VIPs are characterised by reaching a high level of insulation although they are thin, which means they do not alter the proportions of the building the way thick layers of insulation do. Hemp-lime on the other hand has the advantage of being in line with the traditional materials already present in historic buildings.