Economic and Technical Analysis of a Traditional Facade Compared to a Wooden Ventilated Facade
Construction & Civil Engineering
The thesis focuses on a comparison between the conventional contact facade and the wooden ventilated facade, primarily from an economic and technical perspective. The first part provides a technical description of both systems, including their composition, materials and installation methods.
A time analysis shows that the installation of a wooden ventilated facade takes longer due to its multiple phases and component layers. However, it offers easier disassembly and a higher proportion of recyclable materials.
The choice of materials has a direct impact on the indoor climate. To maintain a comfortable living environment, the facade envelope must be breathable, allowing indoor moisture to escape. Various materials need to be properly interconnected to function as a unified system.
Thermal insulation is used to prevent excessive heat transfer through the envelope from the outside. Airtightness enables the removal of excess humidity and supports ventilation by allowing fresh air to circulate. The economic section compares the implementation costs and life span of both facade systems.
It has been found that while the initial investment in a wooden ventilated facade is typically higher, this can be offset over time due to better durability, reduced maintenance, and the higher value of the building. In contact facades, the main cost lies in the thermal insulation, whereas in ventilated facades, it is the cladding.
On average, the cost of constructing a wooden ventilated facade is more than twice that of a contact facade. Maintenance costs also vary: although initially lower for contact facades, they tend to rise significantly over time, eventually surpassing those of the wooden ventilated alternative.
Special attention is also given to the environmental impact of both systems, where the wooden facade proves to be the more sustainable choice in the spirit of a circular economy. Wood carries environmental benefits, as it can be used as an energy source at the end of its life cycle, thus reducing CO₂ emissions.
Wood and wood-based materials are well-suited for exterior cladding not only due to their aesthetic and unique visual qualities, but also because of their durability when properly selected and maintained.
