Construction industry

How sustainable building materials will prevail in 2025 

Sustainability is playing an increasingly important role in the construction industry. Building owners are increasingly turning to environmentally friendly building materials that not only protect the environment, but also save costs in the long term. But which sustainable materials will prevail in 2025 and what should builders look out for? Recycled concrete and bricksOne of the biggest innovations in the construction industry is the use of recycled concrete...

Guest WC: How to integrate a shower 

The integration of a shower in a small guest WC is possible with well thought-out design ideas. A level-access shower without thresholds opens up the room visually and creates a spacious feeling. Glass partitions are also a good choice, allowing more light to pass through and opening up the room. If you want to save additional space, you can opt for half-height partitions or sliding doors that...

Lighting planning: ensure perfect lighting at an early stage 

Well thought-out lighting design in a new build is essential to avoid being left in the dark later on. The right lighting not only provides sufficient light, but also contributes to a feel-good atmosphere and functional design. Suitable luminaires must be installed to ensure pleasant lighting at all times of the day. Builders should therefore already...

Property tax: local authorities massively increase assessment rates 

Many cities and municipalities in Germany raised their property tax considerably in 2023. The average assessment rate rose by 18 percentage points to 409% - the biggest increase since surveys began. An analysis by the German auditing and consulting organization EY shows that more than 2,600 municipalities increased the assessment rate. Only around 50 of the municipalities made a reduction. This...

Design: Stairs as architectural highlights 

The staircase, more than just a connection between floors, can become a real design element in the living space. A decision should be made at the start of the planning process as to whether they are to be open in the room or integrated into the hallway. Open staircases can visually and acoustically connect the living space with the upper floor. The frequency of passage can be more noticeable as a result. Depending on...

Heat pumps: VDI informs 

In Germany, heat pumps are gaining in importance as a climate-friendly alternative. This is partly due to new legislation. This stipulates that heating systems in new buildings must be powered by at least 65% renewable energy from 2024. However, heat pumps are often at the center of misunderstandings due to their alleged inefficiency in unrenovated old buildings or...

Social issues: The future of living in old age 

With increasing age, the living environment becomes crucial for maintaining independence and social participation. Demographic developments call for innovative housing concepts that enable older people to live active and integrated lives in society. These concepts range from multigenerational houses and assisted living to specialized senior residences that offer a home away from...

Construction site: check protection yourself in winter 

In winter, the risk of damage to incomplete building projects increases due to weather conditions. To avoid damage caused by snow and rain, it is crucial to secure open areas such as window openings and basement access points. DIN ATV 18299 stipulates that construction companies must adequately protect their construction sites in winter. Nevertheless, building owners should also take action themselves if necessary...

Owners' meetings: A new era 

Since October 17, 2024, the holding of virtual homeowners' meetings (WEG) has been permitted by law (Section 23 (1a) WEG). This enables condominium owners to decide on resolutions without being physically present. With a required three-quarters majority of the votes cast, condominium owners can decide that the condominium owners' meeting will be held virtually for three...

Roof tiles: More on appearance and use 

Roof tiles play a crucial role in protecting buildings against weather influences such as rain, snow and hail. They are available in various shapes and colors. This makes it possible to improve the appearance of a house. The most common types of roof tile include hollow tiles with their curved shape and the often semi-circular plain tiles, which are available in a variety of colors depending on...

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