The paper discusses the importance of reconstruction of the existing buildings and structures as energy efficient premises. It highlights that, despite the tendency to demolish residential facilities built in the second half of the twentieth century, in many cities (not only in Russia) these premises are still in demand on the real property market. Because one of the principles of making energy efficient buildings through their reconstruction is to increase the thickness of enclosing structures the paper suggests using composite foam (PENOCOM®) as a certified composite thermal insulation material. The paper sets out the main characteristics of composite foam and provides a summary description of the technology to increase wall thickness with the use of composite foam.

Keywords: energy efficient building, reconstruction, enclosing structures, thermal insulation material, composite foam, technology to increase wall thickness

Summarizing the research focused on the studies of national and foreign scientists, this paper provides a brief analysis of the current situation in the area of greenfield construction and reconstruction of buildings as energy-efficient alternatives. It was found that buildings made in other climatic zones in line with the German standards do not meet the applicable energy efficiency requirements. Also, it is pointed out that the energy efficiency concept is always coupled with the idea of environmental safety of materials utilized, reduction of economic costs of construction and installation and energy security. The authors hold the view that energy efficient reconstruction of buildings and structures built in the second half of the 20th century (so called «stripped houses») can be accomplished through increasing the thickness of exterior walls with the use of innovative lightweight thermal insulation materials that enable building without underpinning and soil stabilization.

Keywords: energy-efficient building, passive house, heat shield performance, energy-efficient reconstruction, challenges and solutions, materials utilized