ᐅ Modifying a 1950s house for energy efficiency: what can be done and how? Is it worth it?
Created on: 12 Aug 2013 23:15
R
RS.
Hello everyone,
I am currently facing a difficult decision and am quite uncertain about what to do. A few days ago, we learned that someone in our town wants to sell a house from the 1950s, and we have already taken a look at it. Since we have only just started exploring the topic of buying real estate, we are still quite inexperienced in this area.
The house is in a prime location, the plot of land is fantastic, but the house itself obviously lacks proper thermal insulation, and the basement is a bit damp. Although there is no visible mold on the walls, the moisture is noticeable. Since the listing is not yet public and the price seems reasonable to me, I would like to ask for some advice to help me decide whether to proceed with or against this property.
1. Is it realistically possible to get such a basement (sandstone slabs are mounted on the outside; I’m not sure how far they extend into the masonry) reasonably dry again and then insulate it, or is this a rather unrealistic idea? (Concerns about salt deposits, etc.)
2. The heating system was converted to gas in 2009. Do you think there might still be significant potential for improvements?
3. What kind of insulation values could I achieve if I fully insulate the house?
4. I assume that costs and the resulting insulation value are not directly proportional. Approximately where would the optimal balance be?
5. What costs can I roughly expect for thermal insulation (roof, walls, basement, windows, etc.)? Unfortunately, I don’t remember the length and width of the house, but the living space is about 125 square meters (1350 square feet) spread over two floors. (Maybe this can serve as a rough reference.)
6. What else should I keep in mind when dealing with a house from the 1950s?
Sorry if some of these questions seem basic, but time is pressing, and I just need some reference points to build on. Ideally, I want to make a decision before the property goes on the market.
Thanks.
Best regards,
RS
I am currently facing a difficult decision and am quite uncertain about what to do. A few days ago, we learned that someone in our town wants to sell a house from the 1950s, and we have already taken a look at it. Since we have only just started exploring the topic of buying real estate, we are still quite inexperienced in this area.
The house is in a prime location, the plot of land is fantastic, but the house itself obviously lacks proper thermal insulation, and the basement is a bit damp. Although there is no visible mold on the walls, the moisture is noticeable. Since the listing is not yet public and the price seems reasonable to me, I would like to ask for some advice to help me decide whether to proceed with or against this property.
1. Is it realistically possible to get such a basement (sandstone slabs are mounted on the outside; I’m not sure how far they extend into the masonry) reasonably dry again and then insulate it, or is this a rather unrealistic idea? (Concerns about salt deposits, etc.)
2. The heating system was converted to gas in 2009. Do you think there might still be significant potential for improvements?
3. What kind of insulation values could I achieve if I fully insulate the house?
4. I assume that costs and the resulting insulation value are not directly proportional. Approximately where would the optimal balance be?
5. What costs can I roughly expect for thermal insulation (roof, walls, basement, windows, etc.)? Unfortunately, I don’t remember the length and width of the house, but the living space is about 125 square meters (1350 square feet) spread over two floors. (Maybe this can serve as a rough reference.)
6. What else should I keep in mind when dealing with a house from the 1950s?
Sorry if some of these questions seem basic, but time is pressing, and I just need some reference points to build on. Ideally, I want to make a decision before the property goes on the market.
Thanks.
Best regards,
RS
W
Wegener SV13 Aug 2013 11:12Look for a civil engineer or technician with practical experience in construction and documented continuous professional development. They should be a certified expert in building damage assessment. Additional training in wood pests or wood preservation in construction would be an advantage.
An architect who frequently handles renovation projects would also be a good choice.
The consultation appointment including advice would likely cost around €300 (approx. $320) including VAT.
A general rule of thumb for a property in need of renovation: purchase price minus land value plus renovation costs should not exceed 65% of the cost of a new build.
An architect who frequently handles renovation projects would also be a good choice.
The consultation appointment including advice would likely cost around €300 (approx. $320) including VAT.
A general rule of thumb for a property in need of renovation: purchase price minus land value plus renovation costs should not exceed 65% of the cost of a new build.
B
Bauexperte16 Aug 2013 11:17Hello,
On the one hand, your bank advisor—if they are knowledgeable—can answer this for you (although “regular” bankers often don’t like working with KfW funds because it involves more effort and no commission). On the other hand, it’s definitely time to find an independent expert. And finally, you don’t necessarily have to sign a loan agreement today.
The responses from users here are “suggestions”—if you accept one that turns out not to reflect reality, you’ll be the one to bear the consequences, since no one else can be held liable; after all, you acted based on “hearsay.”
Every house needs renovation—the question is whether it’s economically justifiable or if demolition would be a better option. Of course, a lot can go wrong with retrofitting insulation. What’s important in all cases is professional guidance… from the very start. This means that for any energy-efficient renovation, it’s best to avoid relying too much on “hearsay.” 😉
Best regards, Bauexperte
RS. schrieb:
I have a bank appointment in 6 hours; by then I need to know whether I should apply for KfW funding for external wall insulation or not. 😉
On the one hand, your bank advisor—if they are knowledgeable—can answer this for you (although “regular” bankers often don’t like working with KfW funds because it involves more effort and no commission). On the other hand, it’s definitely time to find an independent expert. And finally, you don’t necessarily have to sign a loan agreement today.
The responses from users here are “suggestions”—if you accept one that turns out not to reflect reality, you’ll be the one to bear the consequences, since no one else can be held liable; after all, you acted based on “hearsay.”
RS. schrieb:
Maybe a fundamental question: If I insulate a house from the 1950s afterwards, can this cause any problems? (moisture or similar)
Every house needs renovation—the question is whether it’s economically justifiable or if demolition would be a better option. Of course, a lot can go wrong with retrofitting insulation. What’s important in all cases is professional guidance… from the very start. This means that for any energy-efficient renovation, it’s best to avoid relying too much on “hearsay.” 😉
Best regards, Bauexperte