Fassadendämmung

Fassadendämmung is the insulation of building facades to improve thermal performance and reduce energy consumption. It involves the addition of insulating material either on the exterior or interior surface of a building envelope, or by inserting insulation between existing elements. The primary goal is to lower heat losses in winter and heat gains in summer, thereby decreasing heating and cooling demands.

Common insulating materials include mineral wool, expanded polystyrene, polyurethane foam, and aerogel composites. Mineral wool offers high fire resistance and acoustic benefits, whereas rigid foam boards such as XPS or EPS provide low thermal conductivity and are easier to install. Polyurethane foam can be sprayed for seamless coverage but requires professional handling. Developing materials such as vacuum‑insulated panels or phase‑change materials are increasingly used in high‑performance construction.

Installation methods are broadly classified as external thermal insulation finishing systems (ETICS) and internal thermal insulation finishing systems (ITICS). ETICS involve a structured substrate, a continuous insulation layer, and a protective, moisture‑resistant facing. ITICS add insulation beneath the interior finish, preserving the building’s external appearance. Choice of method depends on architectural requirements, building age, façade condition, and cost considerations.

European directives and national energy saving regulations set minimum U‑value thresholds for facades, which Fassadendämmung helps meet. Properly executed façade insulation can improve indoor comfort, reduce utility bills, and contribute to a lower carbon footprint. Typical lifespans of installed systems range from 30 to 50 years, with maintenance mainly limited to inspection of facades and repair of any water infiltration issues.