Get a head start on costs: Think about the construction year when purchasing a house
Ponder the House's Age When Making a Purchase
Got your eyes set on an old charming abode, a contemporary flat, or a modern house? When scouring property markets, don't neglect to scrutinize the construction year. This vital detail can provide clues about potential problems, help avoid expensive renovations, and ensure a smooth investment.
Here's a rundown of common issues for various house age groups and the preventive measures to adopt:
Properties from the Gründerzeit era: A safe bet, but...
"Sure, it is," declares specialist author Peter Burk. Buildings constructed before World War I feature solid construction and maintain popularity today.
However, they were ornamented extravagantly, yet built without much knowledge of building physics at the time. That means homeowners should expect a lack of attention to thermal insulation, sound insulation, basement sealing, and basic building technology (heating, water, sewage, electrical installation). As such, these older homes need to be equipped and modernized to meet current standards.
That being said, many owners have upgraded their homes over the years, addressing such concerns with renovations like exchanging windows, re-roofing, and updating plasterwork, fireplaces, and chimneys.
Pre-WWII homes: Simplified but insufficient
Following the Gründerzeit, simpler and less ornate designs appeared. Builders adhered to the Bauhaus concept, characterized by clean lines, narrow walls, and single-glazed windows. Although fewer building chemicals were used then, thermal and sound insulation remained insufficient. Moreover, Burk warned of improperly executed flat roofs.
Post-war constructions: Be prepared for surprises
Houses built immediately after the war until the 1950s might yield unexpected challenges. Given the hurry to provide people with homes, materials from construction debris were often used--not always ideal in terms of quality and safety. Corrosion or fire damage may have affected masonry blocks and sand.
Houses built from 1950 to 1970: More solid, but uncovered hazards
Houses from this period tend to be durable in terms of construction, according to Burk. Nonetheless, they share the same pitfalls as post-war homes—particularly insufficient thermal and sound insulation. Flat roofs, too, may have issues. Furthermore, leaking plastic membranes and damaged pipes can cause wreckage over time.
The 1980s & '90s: Asbestos watch out!
Asbestos use began in the late 1950s and escalated in the 1960s. These houses also harbor other environmental risks like mineral wool in roof insulation, formaldehyde-containing components, and dangerous wood preservatives present in areas like ceiling and wall coverings. Sanitary installations often show signs of wear and tear.
Homes built after 2000: Energy-efficient and future-proof
Newer houses, built in 2000 and beyond, boast an energy-efficient insulation standard, modern heating systems, and well-thought-out sanitary and electrical installations. They can be made future-ready with manageable updates like the installation of climate-friendly heating systems, solar panels, and solar water heaters.
When shopping for a house, secure copies of essential documents such as the energy certificate and the building permit, recommends Corinna Kodim from Haus & Grund Germany. Discovering building defects could turn out to be costly. Even seemingly minor issues, like masonry cracks, may destabilize the structure, or result in hefty renovation costs for repairs, pest treatments, or asbestos removal. Heating system and sanitary installation replacements can prove expensive as well.
In essence, older houses, known for their unique charm and favorable locations, come with their quirks. Before committing to a purchase, consult with an expert to identify critical maintenance issues and understand the financial implications.
Stay ahead of the game: Factor the construction year into your property hunt for a smoother, more informed decision-making process!
- When considering houses from the Gründerzeit era, keep in mind that, despite their solid construction, they may lack adequate thermal insulation, sound insulation, basement sealing, and basic building technology.
- Pre-WWII homes, characterized by simpler designs, may exhibit insufficient thermal and sound insulation, improperly executed flat roofs, and other potential issues.
- Post-war constructions built until the 1950s might contain materials of questionable quality and safety, potentially leading to corrosion or fire damage.
- Houses from 1950 to 1970 can be durable, but many still face insufficient thermal and sound insulation, flat roof issues, and problems with leaking plastic membranes and damaged pipes.
- Homes built after 1990 harbor potential environmental risks like asbestos, mineral wool in roof insulation, and formaldehyde-containing components. These houses, while energy-efficient, may require updates for climate-friendly heating systems, solar panels, or solar water heaters.
