VIISTO – Adapting Buildings to Climate Risks

Climate change is expected to increase rainfall and heavy downpours, which will affect stormwater management in buildings and the risk of urban flooding. Although Finland has long considered precipitation in construction practices, intensifying heavy rains, storm winds, and floods must be taken into account even more in the future. As winters become milder, precipitation will also increase during winter months, causing frequent freeze–thaw cycles.

As a result, moisture loads and stresses on buildings will increase, accelerating the deterioration of structures. In the future, buildings must adapt to additional strain caused by increased wind-driven rain on exterior cladding, which will lead to greater moisture damage and susceptibility to mold, along with a growing need for maintenance.

Proactive risk assessment and preparedness can help prevent expensive repairs and, in the worst-case scenario, the need to tear down damaged structures.