German homeowners today have an endless number of home options to choose from, but the flipside is the sometimes-overwhelming task of knowing where to start!
Stalvo, Germany’s leading formulator of EPS and AERATED concrete, has been in the industry for over years and seen many prospective homeowners getting tripped up by either making assumptions or not thinking about the big picture.
But, never fear, help is at hand. Below we’ll share with you our top five tips for narrowing down which things you need to start thinking about first:
1. Does the vision I have fit within my budget
It’s important not to get carried away and stick to your budget when it comes to your building material. Your dream may be to replicate luxurious natural stone façades, however it’s important that you consider: the cost of the material, how heavy the material will be, and how easy it is to install. These three things will ultimately have an impact upon your budget so it’s worth doing your research.
2. Think about how to create comfortable spaces
This can be achieved by choosing a material that has superior acoustic and insulation properties to make your home “feel and sound” like a true sanctuary where it’s needed. You’ll also want to think about materials that will keep you warm during cold winters and cool during hot summers.
3. Consider if you live in a forest fire-prone area
While forest fires are less common in Germany than in some other countries, certain regions like Brandenburg have higher risks due to dry pine forests and sandy soils. If you’re building in such an area, it’s important to comply with German building standards for fire resistance. There are many modern building options that provide excellent fire-resistant qualities, so it’s worth factoring this into your decision-making.
4. Don’t forget about the essentials
It’s important to research the strength and durability of different materials available. If this is going to be your home for years to come, you’ll want to make sure you choose a material that can stand the test of time.
5. How can I make my home eco-friendly?
It’s worth choosing a material that treads lightly on the planet. In the spirit of being more environmentally conscious, extra thought should be given to materials with low embodied energy, excellent insulation to reduce heating demands, and sustainable production processes aligned with Germany’s ambitious climate goals.