what does retrofitting existing buildings mean/involve?
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Retro is slang for something from the past. But still usuable.
A metal pipe is a pipe. But may have a past connector. We ‘retro’ fit it. More slang to make it the past.
More used when things did not have a standardaized fittting.
It means replacing existing system(s) with updated technology. For example, if one was to retrofit lighting they would remove the old incandescent, fluorescent, sodium, and/or halide system and replace it with LEDs. Any part of the building can be retrofitted with upgraded technologies.
Without more context, it would simply mean bringing it up to date. With context would make more sense… retrofitting the plumbing or electric, for examples.
Basically a remodel without changing structure. New plumbing/electrical, new HVAC, new fixtures, new finishes to make it more modern, etc.
Retrofitting means to update an existing building to current standards. Most of the time these are safety and structural improvements to comply with current building codes, and not just a general remodel.
What is done during a retrofit depends heavily on when the building was built and what the concerns are. An old concrete foundation may be torn up and then repoured with steel reinforcement, or fire sprinklers may be installed in a building that doesn’t have them.
It means to renovate and add new features/mechanicals that weren’t originally part of building, like running ducts throughout the home in order to add central air conditioning, or running gas and water lines to add a washer and dryer.
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