Refurbishment, strengthening and durability of existing building structures

Abstract

The article presents reflections on the renovation of existing building structures, in particular buildings. Particular attention is paid on the durability of structures as an element of sustainable development is considered. The concept of sustainability in the limit state approach to the structural design is proposed. The durability should be treated and considered as a third limit state. 
Problems related to the use of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for the actual estimation of the environmental impact of existing buildings are also presented.