In a significant new study, researchers have raised alarms about the risk of overheating in dwellings located in traditionally cool climates, such as Ireland. As the nation embarks on ambitious retrofit programs to improve energy efficiency, the implications of climate change are adding complexity to the construction landscape. The study, authored by M. Mulville from the Technological University Dublin, highlights that up to 10% of Ireland’s existing housing stock could be at risk of overheating, potentially affecting over half a million individuals.
The research delves into the factors contributing to this phenomenon, including dwelling typologies, design specifications, and occupant behaviors. “It’s essential to recognize that modern living conditions and retrofitting efforts can inadvertently increase the risk of overheating,” Mulville stated. The study emphasizes that middle and top-floor apartments, as well as compact dwellings, are particularly vulnerable. The findings suggest that as temperatures rise due to climate change, the current strategies for retrofitting homes may need a critical reevaluation to incorporate overheating mitigation measures.
Dynamic Simulation Modelling plays a pivotal role in the research, allowing for a nuanced understanding of how local weather patterns and urban heat islands contribute to overheating risks. The paper reveals that Ireland’s National Meteorological service predicts increased ambient temperatures and solar radiation, alongside a shift in peak heat months from July to August. This shift could necessitate a rethinking of how buildings are designed and retrofitted in the coming years.
Mulville warns that without proactive measures, the energy-efficient homes of the future could become uncomfortable and even uninhabitable during peak heat periods. “We must integrate overheating risk assessments into our retrofit strategies to ensure that we are not creating new problems while solving existing ones,” he cautioned.
The implications of this study extend beyond individual comfort; they pose significant commercial challenges for the construction sector. As building regulations evolve in response to these findings, construction firms will need to adapt their designs and materials to mitigate overheating risks. Failure to do so could result in costly modifications down the line, as homeowners face uncomfortable living conditions that necessitate additional cooling solutions.
This groundbreaking research, published in the journal ‘Indoor Environments,’ underscores the urgent need for the construction industry to align retrofit efforts with climate realities. As Ireland continues to invest heavily in its housing stock, the intersection of energy efficiency and thermal comfort will become increasingly critical. The future of construction in cool climates may hinge on a balanced approach that considers both sustainability and livability, ensuring that homes remain safe and comfortable for all residents.
