Retain or demolish concrete structures?

Due to increasingly stringent standards for CO2 emissions, many buildings no longer meet the requirements. After all, many apartment buildings and offices date back to the 60s, 70s and 80s. Are we going to demolish these buildings or can we (energetically) renovate, repurpose or upgrade them?

There are many elements that go into making this choice. However, many voices are raised in favor of preserving buildings. We take into account the technical, economic, social and, above all, environmental factors.

When we look at the technical possibilities, we very often identify concrete damage after thorough preliminary examination. This damage, aesthetic or structural, can in most cases be permanently repaired. A specialized contractor is called upon to carry out the necessary repairs using appropriate products. Besides repairing and insulating the outer shell of the building, the obsolete techniques are also taken care of.

Renovation is also often cheaper economically than demolition and new construction. After all, it is not always necessary to renovate the entire building. In many cases, large sections such as the structure, elevators, utilities, etc. can be retained. Often a number of residents have already renovated their apartments and demolition would be a great loss. By renovating, we save on expensive building materials and high labor costs. Building "additions" can also provide a financial solution.

Another not unimportant aspect is the social aspect. In many cases, renovation allows residents to remain in their own environment or requires them to move elsewhere for only a short time. After all, demolition and new construction requires a lot more time.

The main argument for renovation is, of course, the ecological impact. When we demolish a building, this already involves considerable CO2 emissions. After all, demolition, and disposal of construction waste is damaging to our environment. In addition, a new structure must be built. This means use of new scarce raw materials, production and supply of building materials. Taking into account "embodied carbon" in existing and new constructions, we can therefore state that preserving buildings is a lot more environmentally friendly than demolishing them. During the Belgian Concrete Day, we held a panel discussion on the theme "Demolish or preserve concrete structures". Four experts by experience in the field of sustainable construction and renovation, Erik Wieërs (Vlaams Bouwmeester), Joost Declercq (Archipelago), Jo Huygh DUSS) and Joris De Baes (Redevelop - for Fereb) gave their opinions on this subject based on economic, ecological, technical and social insights.

Watch the conversation: