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Large amounts of heat can be lost due to improper roof design, and if the roof isn't properly waterproofed, it can disrupt your peace of mind. Given the diversity of roofing and framing options, it's important to educate yourself on the subject so you can make an informed decision about the best solution for your needs, from the quality of your roofing material to the frequency with which you should perform routine maintenance.

## Choosing a roof: factors to think about

The frame, no matter how high up it is, is a load-bearing component because it secures the building envelope. Don't rush, as this area will be subject to the weather (snow in the winter, for example).

_“Since this area will be constantly exposed to the elements, you shouldn't rush to finish it”._

Consider the possibility of infestation by insects, fungi, and molds if you opt for wood. Many homeowners prefer solid wood due to its durability and fire resistance; however, it must be meticulously installed to prevent accidental damage.

Anticipated frame criteria include fire resistance because, if the frame burns down, the entire building is compromised. In the event of a fire, materials like concrete, tile, and slate prove to be more resilient than metal or industrial glued laminated wood.

Water vapor from sources inside the home (breathing, the bathroom, the dryer, etc.) that should escape to the outside often accumulates, leading to problems like pests and mold. It is recommended to install a vapor barrier film inside to prevent this phenomenon. As a result, the home's insulation is protected from the indoor humidity, and the structure lasts longer.

## To truss or not to truss?

The truss frame is made of wooden boards that are prefabricated in a factory before being transported to the construction site and installed. Good insulation can be achieved from the outset thanks to this setup, and additional insulation layers can be added later if desired. Despite the "kit's" widespread appeal due to its apparent usefulness and simplicity of assembly, it precludes the possibility of a future attic conversion.

Someday turning the attic into habitable space requires a traditional frame built from solid wood specifically for the job at hand. This is a more involved and costly build, but it could provide more usable space for living in the future.

_“You should go with a conventional, solid-wood frame if you plan on setting up living quarters on the second story”._

What are the right materials to build your frame and roof?

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To get the best thermal insulation value and to construct a sturdy and long-lasting house, it makes sense to research the best masonry materials to use. Several guidelines will help you figure out the trade-offs that are necessary for you to reduce your energy consumption (and recycling), maintain a high quality of life in your home, and eliminate or at least lessen the impact of any construction limitations.

## The primary materials used in masonry, along with their benefits and drawbacks

### Bricks and cinder blocks are two prevalent alternates

Because of its durability, affordability, and low carbon footprint, brick is one of the most well-known materials (to fire and frost, among others). On the other hand, it needs to be combined with adequate insulation for the building to meet the stringent thermal requirements that exist in Luxembourg.

Traditional hollow bricks or single wall bricks can also be used. The lack of insulation for the former means that the latter will be insufficient.

_According to the authors, "Breeze block is one of the most well-known materials: it is used a lot because of its low price, low carbon footprint, and resilience."_

### Wood and cellular concrete are more ambitious materials that require less insulation

In the same way that metal buildings need extra insulation, wooden ones do as well, but they can be erected quickly and with little hassle (no lengthy drying times are to be anticipated).

Cellular concrete, however, is still the best option if you want the best possible insulation as soon as the first exterior walls are installed. It's lightweight and has a high reputation for thermal conductivity, but it can only be used for structures with a maximum of two stories (not for residences, for example).

It doesn't matter if you're constructing your home out of wood, concrete, or cinder blocks; you'll always need to insulate it. For instance, the insulation for a wall constructed of wood, which is relatively effective, is placed directly between the supporting posts, resulting in a wall that is only 40 centimeters thick. If you use less efficient materials, you'll need to insulate the building's exterior, which can quickly cause your walls to grow to be 50 centimeters thick.

## Which interior walls should I install?

When the outside walls are up, it's time to think about the interior walls. In this case, health is more of a concern than heat retention. Some may opt for non-removable, solid, perforated, or fixed options in order to design spaces that are ideally suited to their needs.

### Room dividers for bathrooms with standing water

Partitions with a high moisture threshold are ideal for use in damp locations like the bathroom, where condensation can cause serious problems elsewhere in the house.

### Modular, detachable walls

Removable walls are gaining popularity because they allow people to arrange their living space in any way they like, according to their needs and preferences.

_“More and more people are showing an interest in removable partitions due to their convenience and the independence they provide”._

### Drywall

Drywall, which may be constructed from plaster, brick, or aerated concrete, is used to create a solid wall between two rooms. For example, some citations are created in a way that maximizes their ability to dampen outside noise.

### Aesthetically pleasing and functional partitions

In addition to being an ideal choice for water rooms, glass partitions are a clever way to let light into dark corners of the home without sacrificing privacy. Furthermore, plants are used to create genuine plant partitions, or "thematic" partitions, in specialized settings, such as a Japanese-style room or an artist's studio. Everyone has complete leeway to do as they please.

It's plain to see that the exterior walls and the interior walls are constructed from different materials. Seek the guidance of skilled artisans if you want to avoid common pitfalls.

What materials should I choose for the masonry of my house?

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You should consider both the aesthetics and the functionality of the windows and doors you choose for your new home (thermal insulation, maintenance, security, etc.). To sum up, the woodwork on the inside of your home is something you should give some thought to, and here are some helpful things to know to help you get started.

## Choose between wood, PVC, and aluminum for my home's interior woodwork

For both entryways and vistas, you can pick from a variety of materials, each with its own set of pros and cons. For instance, aluminum keeps making strides in the marketplace, alluring more and more consumers with its solid construction and adaptability. It can be modified to suit a wide variety of building styles and aesthetic preferences.

The timeless appeal of wood lies in its natural qualities of warmth and authenticity. To achieve the low maintenance costs of metal and the high aesthetic value of wood joinery, aluminum is often used in combination with wood.

_"Wood retains a timeless appeal and remains timeless for its warmth and authenticity."_

Last but not least, PVC's low cost, adaptability, and promise of simple maintenance mean that it is still widely used in modern products (a quick wipe down is all it takes).

## When picking out windows, what should you look for?

You should absolutely choose your windows based on their thermal performance, in addition to the question of the main material. The best of them will provide you with a level of airtightness that will allow you to drastically cut down on heating costs and still meet the standards set for new buildings in terms of energy efficiency.

When planning a renovation, it's important to give thought to how the glazing will need to change to accommodate the new layout. If you put in a window facing north, for instance, you should use triple glazing. South-facing windows can benefit greatly from solar control glazing, which blocks the sun's rays to keep the room at a more comfortable temperature. Additionally, solutions with improved acoustic insulation can be favored in areas vulnerable to noise from passing vehicles.

Only triple glazing should be used in passive houses.

## The best hardware, such as doorknobs and door locks

You need to think ahead to the variety of options for opening and closing doors and windows, both for convenience and safety.

### Automatic door openers

The door opener is an important part of any home security system, but it is especially useful if you have children who stay home alone or if you feel unsafe staying in your own home alone.

### Pulls for Doors

Whether you go with a handle mounted to a plate or a rose will be largely a matter of taste, but you'll need to think ahead to the door's closing mechanism either way (with or without key, condemnation button, full). Always go with the option that works best with the two areas the door is separating (e.g., bathroom vs. exterior or unlocked interior room)!

### The Securing of Doors

Selecting a lock with three or five points of security will increase its ability to deter intruders. Keep in mind that locks should always strive for the highest level of security possible, and that there are a variety of protection systems (against breaking, picking, or drilling) that can be useful.

_“When it comes to keeping your belongings safe from intruders, a lock with three or five points of security is your best bet”._

Regarding the fasteners, plan ahead for the various window and bay configurations' opening and closing motions. It may be necessary to install locks or other security measures on some uncovered components, but for our everyday convenience, we prefer to wager on tilt-and-turn models, which let in air without inviting intruders inside.

How to choose and maintain your interior woodwork?

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It is the responsibility of the buyer to know everything there is to know about the property. There are still some required rituals to be observed in Luxembourg, while others are merely suggested.

## The Energy performance certificate (EPC): A Property Sale Obligation

The EPC, also called an "energy passport," is one of the necessary documents at the close of a sale. Creating an energy passport actually requires the seller to consult with professionals before listing the property for sale. Greenhouse gas emissions are estimated from the energy consumption data collected in the energy passport.

The buyer receives this data after it has been transmitted. People who are in the market to buy a home typically have low energy consumption as one of their top priorities, making this a very important consideration. A home with poor insulation and high heating costs will be worth less than one with the same square footage and features that meets the most stringent thermal standards.

To paraphrase the article, "all owners who have never performed an energy passport — or whose document is more than 10 years old — should request this expertise prior to the sale."

Having an EPC on hand isn't enough to close the deal; you should get one before you even start writing ads. These details are essential for potential buyers to make an informed decision about your property, so be sure to include them in your ad.

All owners who have never completed an energy passport, or whose document is older than ten years, are required to request this service prior to selling their home.

## In order to plan ahead financially, you need to know the household expenses

The vendor can provide photocopies of his fixed-cost invoices, such as his utility bills. You can also request a copy of the last three statements of charges from the trustee for the apartment. These records are invaluable to a buyer because they spell out exactly how much money will need to be paid each month for the house or apartment.

The heating bills, along with the Energy Performance Certificate, should inform your decision. If you find that they are unusually high, don't be afraid to inquire about the vendor's customs and whether you will be expected to pay the same (some people spend more because they are simply more chilly!).

_“If heating costs continue to be affordable, that will be a positive factor in your final decision”._

## Buying a condo: a unique circumstance

Buying an apartment in a building automatically makes you a part owner of the entire complex. To determine the annual fees of the previous owner, you will need to obtain the minutes from the most recent meeting and any relevant financial statements. The meeting minutes will reveal any major projects that have been planned. Budget for regular upkeep as well as unexpected breakdowns and repairs.

Knowing all the works that were decided by the General Assembly of co-owners prior to the deed of sale and that remain the responsibility of the seller unless otherwise specified in the said deed of sale is helpful in this regard.

Acquiring all of these items at the time of purchase is much more likely if a real estate agent is present. Experts will be able to direct your every move and give you confidence. They'll make sure your paperwork is in order and legal, and that you have all the knowledge you need to buy a home with peace of mind.

What documents are required from the owner to purchase a property?

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Once a compromise of sale is reached, the signing of the deed of sale is a necessary formality to validate the transfer. Already committed to the contract terms at the time of the compromise, the two parties ratify their agreement before a notary. The notary public ensures that the sale is conducted in accordance with all laws and regulations. Make sure the seller has a meeting that will result in a sale!

## What is the purpose of the notarial act?

Although involving a notary in the drafting of a preliminary sales agreement is not required, having one present is a necessary part of closing any real estate transaction.

Preliminary sales contracts sent to the Land Registry are not binding until the notaries have registered and transcribed the property. After the deed of sale is signed, each party must receive a copy of the document. It is important to keep this document as proof of a successful property transfer. As the name implies, it can be used to protect oneself in case of a dispute since it is official and authentic.

_"It takes on an official and authentic air, so it can be used to protect oneself in a dispute."_

## When the preliminary sale agreement is signed or when the authentic act is performed, ownership is transferred

Even if the buyer has not met the notary or paid for the property at the time of signing the preliminary sales agreement, he is considered the owner under French law.

However, if the preliminary sales agreement contains one or more suspensive clauses, the buyer does not automatically become the owner as soon as the document is signed. If the financing conditions of the preliminary sales agreement are respected, the buyer becomes the owner as soon as the loan is disbursed, but the transfer is effective on the date of the preliminary sales agreement.

Include a clause in the sales agreement stipulating that the transfer of ownership and usufruct will only take place after the signing of the deed of sale at the notary's office and the payment of the purchase price.

## How does the actual sale deed get signed?

Each time a deed of sale is signed, the notary first reads the entire document to ensure its accuracy. Now is the time to pay close attention so that the deed's provisions accurately reflect the agreements reached previously. At this stage, you can still provide feedback and ask the expert any questions you may have.

It is highly recommended to request the draft deed be sent to the notary in advance of the meeting, giving all parties ample time to review it in peace of mind.

When signing the deed, the buyer is obligated to either pay the full purchase price as stated in the preliminary sales agreement or make a final payment to cover any indemnities already paid.

_"The purchaser shall pay the purchase price set forth in the compromise at the time of the execution of this Deed”._

Usually at this point, the seller hands over the money and the keys, and the buyer is free to move in and start enjoying his new home. A title deed is also provided to the purchaser in the months following the closing of this deed.

What happens after the buyer and seller sign the deed of sale?

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While a notary public may not be present during the signing of the preliminary sales agreement, the commitment between the parties is nonetheless legally binding. Specifically, the parties have reached an agreement on the asking price at this time. The owner has the obligation to sell at this price to the buyer who signs the contract. It is strongly suggested that certain clauses be added to protect the signatories and ensure a smooth proceeding.

## What exactly does a compromise sale mean and how much do they cost?

Before scheduling an appointment with the notary, it is recommended, though not required, to have both parties sign the preliminary sales agreement. This will allow for the establishment of a formal agreement between the parties and the precise definition of the conditions of the sale.

This agreement has the force of law and binds the parties to its terms and conditions, including the agreed upon price. Compromise sale is a common French expression meaning that a sales promise is as good as a sale, so it's crucial to understand all the terms of the agreement before committing to them.

## What elements should a provisional sale agreement have?

Preliminary sales agreements can be rendered legally ineffective if they omit any of the required information. We list the names and addresses of all parties involved, a detailed description of the item being sold, the agreed-upon price, and the payment schedule and terms.

## Securing a loan, the almost inevitable cliffhanger

_“In addition, many different clauses are typically added that stipulate various conditions prior to the sale becoming binding”._

The buyer is safeguarded from an otherwise precarious financial situation by the contingent condition of granting a mortgage loan; if he is unable to secure financing, he is under no obligation to complete the purchase. The seller may insert a delay into the process for his own protection in the event that the transaction takes too long to complete. If the duration is left entirely up to the discretion of the individual, a delay of four to six weeks is common.

_"The suspensive condition of granting a mortgage loan safeguards the purchaser from a precarious financial situation; if he is unable to obtain a loan, he is under no further obligation to purchase”._

Please note that unless the parties mutually agree otherwise, the sales contract is binding and cannot be terminated due to the absence of a suspensive clause (obtaining a loan).

## Abandonment of the sale is subject to the penalty clause, which provides compensation

As a precaution against a buyer changing his mind at the last minute after securing financing, it is common practice for sellers to include a penalty clause that requires the buyer to pay an indemnity if the purchase is canceled. This fee is typically equal to ten percent of the sale price plus the commission owed to the selling agent.

Last but not least, the compromise should specify the date on which the keys will be handed over and include a list of all the factors that went into the buyer's decision to buy, including the existence of any easements, the date of entry into possession, and the person who will be responsible for paying the notary's fees and the registration and transcription taxes (typically the buyer). The study also supposedly includes the name of the notary who will oversee the sale and the anticipated date for the signing of the deed.

## Consequences for noncompliance, including the possibility of legal action

The preliminary sales agreement is a valid contract with full legal force. This means that if one party breaches its obligations, the other can seek redress and demand that the breached area be fixed.

The party at fault may be required to pay the amount of the penalty clause when it has been specified in the compromise if the seller no longer wishes to sell his property or if the buyer abandons the purchase. Otherwise, a claim for indemnification will be made, the amount of which will depend on the nature of the damage.

In case you forgot, the withdrawal period does not exist in Luxembourg. When you sign a contract, it shows that you agree to all of the terms and conditions.

What is the importance of signing the sales contract?

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There has been a law in place in Luxembourg since January 2017 called the passive standard, which mandates the use of triple glazing in all new buildings. The decision to install triple glazing during home improvements rests solely with the property's owner, who must weigh the benefits against the costs.

## Modifying the woodwork to increase thermal efficiency

Because of climate change, cutting energy costs is becoming increasingly urgent. This entails adding extra layers of insulation wherever it is installed in a house. Fifteen percent to thirty percent of heat is lost through drafty old doors and windows. Due to this, their replacement can greatly enhance insulation. The use of triple glazing is one way to boost efficiency even further. However, the building envelope is not as efficient in older homes as it is in passive housing, so retrofitting is not always the best option.

_"In order to achieve better results, triple glazing is frequently recommended.”_

How different is triple glazing from double?

The gasses argon or krypton are trapped between two 4 mm panes of glass in double glazing. They've improved greatly in insulating ability over the years. Their ability to prevent heat loss is 6 times that of single glazing and 2.5 times that of double glazing from 25 years ago. If you have single glazed windows, you can expect a 40% reduction in heat loss by switching to double glazed windows. When it comes to insulating against the cold, nothing beats the effectiveness of triple glazing.

_"You can expect a 40% reduction in heat loss from your old windows if you upgrade from single to double glazing”._

## Value analysis of triple glazing during renovations

Triple glazing's efficiency is such that it deprives the caloric contribution due to the solar radiation, which is not only very pleasant in the winter but also allows for reduced heating consumption. In addition, its installation adds another 75% to the total cost and necessitates the use of bulky and thick frames. These doubts highlight the need to evaluate the work's potential payoff by factoring in the orientation of the windows and the local climate.

_"Before deciding to install triple glazing, it is important to consider the home's orientation in relation to the sun and the local climate”._

## Triple glazed windows, geographical location and weather conditions

Triple glazing is recommended if the local climate is extremely cold, with long winters and low levels of sunshine. Triple glazing is only necessary on north and east-facing windows in warmer climates. Triple glazing is not cost-effective and may even be counterproductive in places where the weather is consistently warm and sunny. Solar radiation during the off-season can provide enough energy to meet all or most of the heating demands in these areas. Triple-pane windows block out the sunlight that would otherwise provide this benefit, so we must forego them.

_“It may be financially prudent to install triple glazing in some homes while waiting in others”._

## Soundproofing and triple pane windows

In terms of noise reduction, triple glazing is excellent. Homeowners in busy neighborhoods will be keenly interested in this feature (roadside, railroad, proximity of an airport...). One more reason to consider upgrading to triple-pane windows during your next home renovation project.

_"Homeowners in busy areas will prioritize soundproofing their dwellings”._


New or renovated, triple glazed windows are a must

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The longing to have a garden of one's own returns every spring when temperatures rise. Depending on where you plan to plant your roots, the dream of purchasing a house or apartment complete with a garden may be within reach. Relocating away from a major city is often necessary to fulfill the dream of having your own garden, which places limitations that should not be taken lightly.

## City dwellers' ultimate fantasy: a home with a garden

Because of the chaos, pollution, and insecurity of city life, some city dwellers opt to relocate to the suburbs. The allure of a house with a garden in a picturesque setting is tempered by the reality that it is not cheap to settle down there, especially in the inner suburbs. If you're willing to move a little further away from your desired location and into a market with less competition, you may have an easier time locating a property of this kind.

_“Some city dwellers move to the suburbs to get away from the traffic, pollution, and crime of the city”._

## Distances that can add up in cost

If the buyer decides to settle in the country, he or she will likely incur significant transportation costs and time commitments getting to and from work. Some people will say that they are willing to pay this price for peace and quiet, and that they would never want to return to their old life in the city. However, for some, the novelty wears off quickly, and what started out as a pleasant vision of a rural garden becomes a burdensome reality. Having a car is optional in the city but becomes necessary once you move out to the suburbs or rural areas, unless you want to rely on inconvenient and time-consuming public transportation. The time and money spent on such travel must be considered...

## A garden-style apartment

Some apartments on the ground floor, some of which include a private garden, can stand in for a house. The buyer has free rein to design the garden however he likes, provided he abides by any applicable co-ownership regulations. The apartment is more valuable because of the garden, but it is also more likely to be broken into because of its ground-floor location. This criterion, the significance of which varies by industry, should be taken into account during bargaining. As the garden may have been illegally attached to the apartment, the buyer should verify that the seller is the legal owner of the space. The title deed is the only document that can prove the seller is the legal owner of the tiny park.

_“Apartments on the ground floor, preferably with a private garden, can stand in for a house”._

## An oasis of greenery in the middle of a concrete jungle

A small patch of greenery is a rarity in the heart of a big city or a historic district. Apartments with outdoor space, like a garden or terrace, are a hot commodity in some major cities, attracting the attention of prestige real estate firms. There are wealthy, dedicated garden lovers who join waiting lists in the hopes of one day owning the coveted property. The average person can't afford these exceptional apartments and will have to look elsewhere to fulfill their desire for a garden.

Green spaces in the city, rural oases in the desert

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Only those who do not have access to a private garage near their residence can appreciate the great value of such a facility. A garage, whether owned or rented, can be a convenient convenience for city dwellers, but it can also be put to other uses, such as housing extra storage space. Investors are drawn to the industry due to its high profitability and low management complexity.

## Parking spot in a city

Having the option to buy or rent a garage or storage unit is a welcome amenity in urban areas where parking is limited and expensive. Street parking can be a hassle in some areas, and wasting 15 minutes every night searching for a spot can get old fast. Parking tickets have a habit of disappearing under the windshield wipers in these areas. Another reason to buy or rent a garage is to protect one's vehicle from the possibility of being broken into or vandalized.

One more reason to own or lease a garage is to protect your vehicle from vandalism and theft.

_“Spending 15 minutes a night driving around aimlessly in search of a parking spot can get old fast”._

## Parking space options: buy or lease

Garages are highly desirable in older communities because they date back to a time when personal automobile ownership was still a novelty. In these areas, the cost of buying or renting a garage is proportional to the parking difficulties residents face. Buying a garage appears to be the most convenient and financially rewarding option if you intend to remain in the area for an extended period of time. The risks of depreciation of your investment are minimal unless society undergoes a dramatic shift and the automobile is abolished in the city. However, renting seems like a better option if you need to relocate quickly.

_“The parking issues in these areas directly affect the cost of buying or renting a garage”._

## One option for stowing away items is the garage

In recent years, storage facilities have sprung up on the outskirts of cities as a solution to the housing crisis. Many people, realizing that garages can serve as additional storage space, opt to lease such spaces for their surplus belongings. There are benefits to this solution, but a garage isn't always an adequate substitute. Forget about using it to store anything that could be damaged by exposure to moisture, as it lacks heating. Nonetheless, if you need somewhere to keep your windsurfing or camping gear, a garage is clearly not the best option. Garage rentals are typically more cost-effective than storage space rentals, but only if the rent is proportional to the garage's storage capacity.

_“The solution has its advantages, but a garage isn't always suitable as a bedroom”._

## A potentially lucrative rental property: the garage

Garages and storage units are inexpensive to buy, have high rental demand, fetch high rents, and require little in the way of upkeep. Due to its unique characteristics, this investment property is highly appealing as a rental. Since the cost to acquire the property is lower than that of a typical apartment, novice investors can also participate in this market. They need to look for garages in high-traffic, low-parking areas. Large vehicles, such as 4x4s, are becoming more common in the city, but it can be difficult to find parking spots that are big enough to accommodate them. This is why garages and boxes with ample surface and height are preferred.

_“Garages and storage lockers are inexpensive to purchase, there is high demand from renters, rental rates are high, and upkeep is minimal”._

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