bridge. In terms of moisture build-up it was verified that none of
occur in any other sections. The module shows no risk of moisture
build-up.
A major advantage of this module is the type of connection
to the existing wall that can greatly reduce the installation time.
Another advantage is the simplicity of the fabrication method that
can guarantee the quality of the solution.
As an example, the application of this solution to a test building
resultedinthe reductionofthe U-value ofthe exterior opaque envelope
from 1.7 to 0.2W/(m2 K). When an integrated retrofit strategy
has been implemented, also based on the PRM module and on-site
renewable energy sources, the single-family retrofitted building
presents a reduction of 83% of the total energy needs, 14% of which
is due to the application of the PRM solution, and the multi-family
building, presents a reduction of 76% of the total energy needs, 16%
of which is due to the application of the PRM solution.
Therefore, this is a solution with good performance indicators,
showing great potential for use in high-quality low energy building
retrofit. It should be noted thatthis solution has been developed
andoptimisedfor the Portuguese reality.However,this solutioncan
also be a valid optionfor the realities of other countries,using different
materials but maintaining the same concept. Just as an example,
Table 10 shows alternative solutions considering different materials
for the PRM module that are more widespread worldwide but
that can lead to very similar energy performances rather than the
original solution. However, previously to the application of these
alternative solutions an extensive validation of the final solution is
always necessary.