Analysis of Thermal Rehabilitation and Seismic Strengthening Solutions Suitable for Heritage Structures

Heritage structures built in the 19th and 20th centuries in the western part of Romania are marked by the significant aesthetic influence of the Austro-Hungarian empire, with highly decorated façades facing the street and rather more simple surfaces towards the back and inner courtyard. This region is also marked by shallow earthquakes, which significantly affect the structural integrity of these buildings. Considering the current climatic context, energy efficiency regulations that also apply to the refurbishment of heritage structures, and the additional need by private owners and authorities to reduce the seismic vulnerability of these structures, it is necessary to develop integrated solutions that could improve the thermal performance of the building and strengthen its load-bearing structure, while preserving the highly valuable aesthetic features that are visible from the street. Therefore, this study is intended to investigate the viability of using different thermal rehabilitation solutions and materials that are suitable for the architectural characteristics of heritage buildings, while also integrating seismic strengthening solutions. These solutions are applied to a 19th-century building that comprises all the specific architectural and structural features found in the western part of Romania. It compares the effectiveness of using mineral-based insulation materials, cork and lime-based plasters, and aerogel–lime-based plaster applied to the inner or outer parts of the wall, depending on the solution. This solution to the problem will combine suitable wet, strengthening techniques that can be used on the inner part of the exterior walls without affecting the aesthetic value of the building. In this way, through the analysed results, this study provides valuable insights concerning potential suitable solutions that can be used to increase sustainability and reduce the seismic vulnerability of heritage masonry buildings.