Between 1975 and 1985, many gyms of T18 type were built in Czechoslovakia. These gyms were mostly intended for schools, specifically primary schools. The manufacturer of these structures was Bučina Zvolen. The index T18 relates to the span of the load-bearing structure which amounts to 18 meters. The ground-plan measurements are 18,8 by 41,15 m.
The gyms were designed as low-cost structures, which also affected the length of their useful life – 20 to 25 years. In the present, many of these structures are still in use even though they are over 40 years old. Since there has been no refurbishment of these structures to this day, they fail to meet any normative criteria, especially concerning the thermal protection of the structure. Due to unsystematic maintenance, defects have in many cases occurred on the load-bearing members. These can result in limits to the structure’s usage and eventually to its complete shutdown. Under some conditions, it is possible to lengthen the useful life of the gym and it should be in the interests of its owners to be able to continue using it. Based on the diagnostics performed on the specific structure in Želiezovce (Slovakia) and the data collected from other gyms of this type, the authors of the presented contribution have elaborated the static calculation of the load-bearing timber structure for the case of enhancing the heat insulation properties to meet the European standards.