Massiiviseinät

Massiiviseinät, sometimes referred to as solid walls, are a construction method characterized by load-bearing walls constructed from a single, monolithic material or a composite of materials laid in a way that creates a continuous, solid structure. Unlike framed walls, which rely on a skeletal framework of studs and beams, massiiviseinät derive their structural integrity from the sheer mass and inherent strength of the wall material itself.

Common materials used in massiiviseinät include concrete, brick, stone, and certain types of engineered wood products like glulam beams forming the primary structure. These materials are typically laid or cast in place to form continuous, solid surfaces. The construction process can vary significantly depending on the material. For concrete walls, formwork is erected, and concrete is poured into it. Brick and stone walls are built by laying individual units with mortar, creating a bonded mass.

The advantages of massiiviseinät often include excellent thermal mass, which helps regulate indoor temperatures by absorbing and releasing heat slowly. They also tend to offer superior sound insulation due to their density. Furthermore, massiiviseinät can be very durable and resistant to fire. However, they can be more labor-intensive to construct and may require specialized equipment. The weight of massiiviseinät also necessitates robust foundation designs. Their thermal performance can be influenced by insulation strategies, as the material itself may not always provide sufficient insulation on its own.