Review of methods for integral seismic and energy renovation of existing masonry buildings in Serbia

The research area of the methods for integral renovation of the existing architectural stock is a consequence of weak seismic resistance and poor energy performances of these buildings. Most of the existing buildings in Serbia consist of masonry buildings, which had been built before the first comprehensive seismic design code in the SFRY, that was issued in 1964, and also before the existence of requirements regarding thermal protection. Today, technical regulations define the required level of load bearing capacity and safety that buildings should satisfy, as well as the appropriate level of energy efficiency, so that the quality of housing and the conditions of service of the building correspond to modern living standards. In practice, several separate techniques have been used for years for improving the thermal protection of existing buildings, and also for the rehabilitation and strengthening of structural elements in case of global and local interventions. The focus of the research is increasingly shifting towards integrated strategies that synergistically deal with the study of both aspects. The paper shows the methods of integrated renovation that are applied from the outside of the building, in order to facilitate their execution in buildings that are in use, with minimal disturbance of the building residents. The application of appropriate comprehensive and effective solutions is a process that still requires further research in order to optimize strategies.