Essential protection with shutters and blinds.jpg

Shades and drapes not only add to the visual appeal of a structure, but also increase the comfort of the space. Which tools provide the highest level of safety and convenience for your everyday life? Let's sidetrack for a second and check out what the exterior joinery section has to offer.

## Shutters can be hinged or rolling, depending on your preferences

### Resistance is greatly reduced by hinged shutters

The most common type of shutter, hinged shutters are also the most basic and durable. They can be easily adjusted to meet the needs of local zoning ordinances while also giving the home's exterior a much-needed boost in personality. All these features help the shutters compete with roller shutters, which are generally regarded as more functional. PVC, aluminum, and wood all have their own unique aesthetics and price points, so it's possible to find the perfect model no matter what your priorities are. Steel is a more secure material in the event of a break-in.

_While roller shutters are generally regarded as more convenient, "all these qualities make casement shutters stand up well against competition from roller shutters."_

### The most functional window treatment is roller shutters

When compared to their swinging counterparts, roller shutters are preferred because their operation can be handled from the comfort of the home's interior. They can be motorized for even more ease of use. Because they are motorized, shutters can be controlled via home automation systems and set to open and close at predetermined times. Those who are particularly interested in technology will be captivated by the prospect of linking their set-up. One factor in picking window coverings is whether or not they can be operated via an app on the user's smartphone.

_"Motorization paves the way for the implementation of home automation, which in turn permits the programming of the opening and closing times of the shutters."_

## Blinds are used to block the sun's rays

### Incredibly easy to use, the projection awning

The projection awning is as straightforward as they come, whether you need to shade your home's windows or the railing on your city apartment. It blocks the sun's harmful rays without dimming the room's illumination. Fabric encases a steel tube in this straightforward system. Two side arms can extend it to an angle of 180 degrees. Because it doesn't require a box, the awning is portable, lightweight, simple to set up, and straightforward to fix if anything goes wrong. 

With these features, it can replace an awning in any setting where the latter would be impractical to set up. The finishing touch is a valance, which can be used to add a touch of flair and make the space feel more like your own. It can be operated either manually or electrically, and a timer can be added so that it goes off at predetermined intervals. In its networked iteration, it can be controlled remotely, weather-dependently, via an app on a smartphone.

_“In situations where it would be impossible to install an awning, its adaptability and versatility make for a viable alternative”._

## The awning, ideal for the patio or deck

Awnings are typically reserved for outdoor spaces like patios and decks. Designed to shield you from the sun or light rain, it consists of a large canvas that can be extended with the help of flexible arms. You can turn a handle or plug in an electric motor to power it. The awning can have either a full box, which completely seals it off from the elements when it is folded, or a half box, which leaves the arms and sides of the fabric open to the elements but allows for easy access for repairs and adjustments. The monobloc awning is the cheapest option and does not require a box. Since it is not weatherproof, it should be installed in a protected area, such as a roof overhang or sheltered wall.

Essential protection with shutters and blinds!

How to secure your windows and glazing.jpg

The traditional window selection criteria of thermal efficiency, soundproofing, and UV protection are no longer sufficient. Protecting the home from intruders is a top priority, so modern doors and windows are fitted with sophisticated security mechanisms. Have you met them before?

## Despite their fragility, windows are surprisingly sturdy

In just 10 seconds, any window can be opened with a screwdriver, regardless of its material (wood, PVC, or aluminum). Because they have so little time, burglars want to gain entry to the home as quickly as they can. The primary goal of most security measures is to buy time until the threat has passed. Reinforced frames, multiple locking points, and hinges make it nearly impossible to force entry through security openings.

_"Security procedures are put in place primarily to delay an intruder until the right moment comes to strike."_

## Locks are placed in window cranks

Many burglaries can be prevented simply by using the inside handle on a window or patio door, as these are the weak points that intruders focus on when selecting homes to target. They select the most convenient approach, such as shattering the glass or making a hole in the frame to feed a wire through and activate the internal knob. It's simple to prevent this kind of invasion by taking precautions. It would be a shame not to have lockable handles on your windows, patio doors, and picture windows because doing so is simple and inexpensive.

_“French windows, bay windows, and any other type of window can have lockable handles installed with little effort”._

## The laminated glass is resistant to shocks

Laminated glass can be installed in windows, French windows, and bay windows to make them more burglar-proof. The impact resistance of this glazing is enhanced by a PVB plastic film sandwiched between the panes of glass. The splinters will stay in place no matter how many times a burglar hits it with a sledgehammer, forcing him to abandon his original plan or come up with an entirely new one. The first-floor windows are the most important ones to lock down because they can be reached quickly and easily. The resistance of laminated glass ranges from 1 to 6, and is used to categorize various types of laminated glass. Glass with a rating of RC2 is what you want for residential use.

_“The first-floor openings are the most pressing to protect because of their convenience”._

## When it comes to safety, triple-glazed windows are the way to go

Triple glazing, which typically ranges in thickness from 32 to 36 mm, can give the impression of invulnerability. However, it does not provide enough security to ward off intruders. If you want to make it more burglar-proof, you can switch out the outer glass for laminated glass, which will make it much more sturdy.

_“To make the exterior more burglar-proof, laminated glass can be installed in the windows”._

Even if you have all of these devices installed, burglars can still be deterred with the addition of an alarm.

How to secure your windows and glazing?

How to put your own stamp on your new home.jpg

When you move into a new apartment, you're not necessarily entering a pristine, unfurnished space. When you make a reservation, you'll have the opportunity to select several customization options that will allow you to make your home truly your own. When you finally get all of your boxes unpacked, here are some ways to make yourself at home right away.

## Get in there early and do some customizing to make the place feel like home

Reserving a home means you can immediately begin planning how you'll make each room uniquely your own. Contacts (sales reps, promoters) can be helpful in this regard because it can be difficult to do this with only a plan and computer-generated images.

In practice, this means you can quickly and easily voice a desire to alter the physical placement of particular dividers. There is no rule that says you can't convert an office into a guest room or open up the kitchen to the dining room.

_"You can communicate your desire to relocate specific partitions as soon as possible”._

Every member of the household has their own preferences and routines, so the "default" solutions from builders aren't always the best option in the kitchen. That's why it's important to plan ahead for the kitchen's layout in a new home, from where you'll put the appliances to how you'll arrange the cabinets, and even down to how you'll open and close the various compartments.

## Making adjustments to the placement of wires and plugs

Since the apartment you're buying is being "built for you," it's important to carefully inspect the floor plan and mark the locations of all switches, light switches, and water inlets and outlets. Again, if you don't think the options presented are right, don't be afraid to ask for alternatives.

There is no hard and fast rule against relocating a washing machine from the kitchen to the bathroom, or even creating a separate space specifically for laundry. Make all of your suggestions and ask all of your questions within the constraints of the available space, and we will lead you through the rest of the work, explaining what is possible and where compromises will be necessary.

Finally, it's crucial to clearly label where each plug-in is situated. Though seemingly unimportant now, the best decisions will pay off greatly once you're actually living in your new home.

_“Please clearly label the location of each power outlet”._

## Picking out the final touches: the paint, the fixtures, and the furniture

When you buy a new apartment, you have a lot of options for how you can customize the space aesthetically, even beyond the major changes that may require work and the help of specialized tradespeople.

Bathroom towel radiator and ceiling-mounted toilet; separate shower and tub; tile or hardwood flooring; wall colors; etc. Typically, there are a plethora of options from which to choose when visualizing your ideal home. Make the most of it!

How to put your own stamp on your new home!

4 Questions to ask when buying a building lot.jpg

Before putting pen to paper on the purchase of land on which to construct a new house, it is important to give careful thought to all of the outcomes that could result from the transaction. Due to the expense that this area represents, the buyer needs to give careful consideration before making a purchase. In fact, the total cost of a house can increase significantly before even the first concrete is poured for the foundation.

## Investigate the site where construction will take place

To begin, before purchasing a plot of land that seems to have everything you could want, research the local zoning laws that would affect your plans. They may place unusually stringent limitations on building, leading to unwelcome shocks.

Additionally, we suggest that you gauge the local climate. You will be living here, so you should naturally feel at ease, well served by the transportation you require and the amenities useful in your daily life, even if it remains very difficult to project yourself at this stage.

## Study the soil to learn about its characteristics

Certain types of foundations may need to be installed in order to accommodate the soil type (clay, limestone, high humidity, fill, etc.), which can drive up the cost of building. Particular plant species, such as willows, can serve as an indicator of the relative humidity of the surrounding air.

_"Specific foundations may be required depending on the soil composition (clay, limestone, high humidity, fill, etc.)."_

If you are unsure, it is best to hire a surveyor to assess the land. You'll be able to spot potential problems, plan accordingly, and get your sustainable building project off the ground.

## Should we build something new or link up the existing infrastructure?

In some instances, you can acquire a piece of land that has all the necessary infrastructure in place, including plumbing, power, gas, and sewage. Even though the initial investment will be substantial, it will speed up the process of moving into the "concrete" phase of the works.

There are still some lots that are not linked to all these networks, especially in the more rural areas. Servicing costs will differ greatly based on the land's complexity and any limitations.

_"The servicing cost will differ significantly based on the complexity of the land”._

In addition to these vital networks, one must also plan ahead for Internet connectivity; for instance, many people today use fiber availability as a selection factor. However, this is not the case everywhere just yet.

## To be considering potential paths

The time to consult with an architect is not before the land is purchased. You'll want to let in as much natural light as possible if you want to live in a passive house that's also modern and conducive to your health and happiness.

Before even purchasing the land, you should consider the possible orientation of the house, sketch the first plans, and make sure they are feasible. To let in more light, it may be a good idea to remove some trees, but this assumes you have the right to do so and that the trees in question are even on your property.

This illustrates why you should never take any chances when investing in real estate. Construction experts should be consulted if this phase presents a learning curve.

4 Questions to ask when buying a building lot

How to build while abiding by all the regulations established by town planners and administrative authorities.jpg

In Luxembourg, the law establishes norms for construction practices, so before you begin work or reach out to artisans, make sure you have all the information you need from the appropriate authorities. If certain conditions are not met, it may be necessary to suspend or even abandon the project.

## Respecting the law requires familiarity with the boundaries of your property

Naturally, you can only construct on property that you own. Additionally, this does not give you carte blanche to start any old project; you must first familiarize yourself with the local planning regulations that will be in effect.

Get your land formally demarcated by the ACT (Administration of Cadastre and Topography) and have them verify that the lines they draw are in line with the cadastral map.

For any legal land division or subdivision, for instance, it is necessary to employ the services of a qualified surveyor.

## The procedure for acquiring a construction license

Without this renowned building permit, the authorities have the legal right to order you to cease construction immediately and to demolish any structures that have already been erected.

You must get in touch with the local administration in your area to obtain your building permit and adhere to all laws in Luxembourg. Include a detailed description of the work to be done, as well as the owner's full name and address, a copy of the cadastral extract, and any other relevant plans or documents for the property.

Not only does the main house require permission, but so do any outbuildings (if you intend to erect a garage next door, for example). In addition, the building permit application process may involve additional measures depending on the specifics of each jurisdiction; before submitting your file, make sure you have all the information you need by consulting with the relevant authorities.

_“You need to get permission for the entire property, not just the main house”._

## A building permit has been secured, but construction has not yet begun

When you finally get your hands on the priceless sesame, you'll have a year to get to work (if you delay the deadline, you will have to renew the whole procedure). However, the administration's vigilance does not end once the agreement is drafted; rather, the authorities have the right to check in on the operations to make sure they are being carried out as described in the application.

You have been unable to acquire a building permit, right? Keep in mind that there are a number of reasons why an application might be denied, such as the fact that the proposed development would be ill-suited to its surrounding area, would violate mandatory public safety regulations, or would be too dishonest even though it would be situated on a historically significant piece of land (historical monuments).

_"You weren't able to get your construction permit, right? Remember that there are a number of potential causes for the request to be denied”._

If you are unsure of the proper procedures to follow before beginning construction, it is still recommended that you work closely with an architect. He will check to see that everything works out and help you stick to your original spending plan.

How to make a construction site while respecting the administrative rules?

Finding the Perfect House with a Pool.jpg

Some people, in their search for a new home, include the presence of a swimming pool as a mandatory feature. Of course, not every pool is created equal; while some may be a great asset, others may present some unpleasant challenges. If you want to buy a home with a pool, but want to avoid common pitfalls, read this first.

## Two distinctly different layouts for swimming pools: indoor and outdoor

Even though Luxembourg has a mild climate overall, a backyard pool will be heavily utilized during the summer months. Of course, the facilities will be empty and swimming will be off-limits during the colder months of winter and the middle of the season.

However, if the pool at your home is enclosed, you can use it whenever you like. Protecting the pool from external aggression (insects, falling leaves) reduces the amount of cleaning necessary, and the water heats up faster, so there is still some maintenance to be done.

Last but not least, a selling point can be a gorgeous outdoor pool that has been meticulously maintained and operates without a hitch. Even though the covered option will be more expensive up front and difficult to come by, it will undoubtedly be the better choice on a day-to-day basis.

_“Even though the covered alternative will cost more to buy, it will provide significant day-to-day benefits”._

## Things to look out for when purchasing a pool home

If you want to buy a house with a pool and actually use it, you should probably ask the current owner (or the real estate agency) some questions first. For instance, it's helpful to have some background knowledge about the contractor doing the building. Once you've determined who the builder is, you can check out their portfolio or order a catalog to get a sense of the kind of work they do and the caliber of their designs. Newer pools are always preferred so that we can reach out to the builder in the event of any issues. Otherwise, it's best to have the salesperson who steps in when there's cause for alarm also be the person you go to for help in the event of a malfunction.

_“If the manufacturer is still in business and the pool needs repairs, we can easily get in touch with them”._

Check the filter, the pump, and the liner to ensure they are all in good working order. Look at the repair and maintenance bills to get an idea of the previous owner's carefulness; it stands to reason that well-maintained installations will have fewer issues down the road.

## Condominium swimming pools are a luxury, but they often come with extra fees

Having a swimming pool in a co-owned building is a nice amenity that increases the building's value. The upkeep of such an installation can be delegated to a variety of parties, such as a security guard or an outside service provider. Extra costs are inevitable and must be planned for in every scenario where this occurs.

So, before you get too attached to an apartment with a pool, ask yourself honestly if you'll actually use it enough to justify the extra expense. If that's the case, you should investigate the building's state and get more information about upkeep.

Everyone has their own opinion on whether a pool is a worthwhile investment or a pointless extravagance; if you're set on having one in your home, though, think twice before making a hasty decision to purchase a property solely because it has a pool.

How to find the ideal house with a pool?

ideas to consider when planning a new kitchen remodel this year.jpg

Putting in a new kitchen in 2023? If you're stuck for ideas or just want to make this area more pleasant, functional, and inviting, here are some suggestions to get you started... In fact, we think it's great if you make use of the new opportunities that have arisen because of the developments in the industry. Make sure your decisions are ones you can still live with in a few years, and don't settle for something you'll grow tired of.

## Wood, a material whose worth increases with age

The most natural materials are making a comeback in interior design in 2023. For this reason, it's not surprising to see lots of wood in contemporary homes, whether it's for the furniture, the floors, or the decorations.

Don't be afraid to use raw wood with visible grain in the kitchen; it adds to the space's genuine charm. Wood's allure comes not just from its visual appeal but also from its tactile one. You can get a high-end look without breaking the bank by using a laminate that looks almost identical to real wood.

_“Some laminates surprisingly mimic the look of solid wood, allowing you to get a high-end look without breaking the bank”._

Naturally, a special treatment will be applied to the kitchen's wooden cabinets and other wooden worktops to make them long-lasting and resistant, in particular to the humidity in the room.

## The kitchen is also given a boost by the decor

The kitchen has been seen as a purely functional space for quite some time. The point was to have everything you needed within easy reach, without sacrificing convenience for the sake of ambiance.

As people spend more and more time in their living rooms, they increasingly want to personalize the space (in a context where the "homemade" resumes its titles of nobility). For this reason, installing design lights and even green plants on shelves and adding trinkets will come across as authentic and distinctive individual touches.

What is the primary benefit of this option? There's no reason why you can't switch up the decor whenever boredom strikes; there's no need to hire professionals or spend a lot of money.

## Kitchens, open or closed: the benefits of compromise

Many people ordering an apartment on plan consider whether they would prefer an open or closed kitchen, with full awareness of the pros and cons of each.

These days, it's more common to settle on compromises that allow you to set boundaries without completely closing off the kitchen. Glass walls, for instance, can separate the kitchen from the rest of the house while still allowing the light from the living room to shine through and brighten up meal prep.

In 2023, when designing a new house to the highest thermal standards, we naturally also consider sustainable development. As a result, choose energy-efficient appliances and don't be shy about exploring cutting-edge developments like the internet-connected fridge for streamlined food waste management.

3 ideas for planning a new kitchen in 2023

If a house has an attic, why does that matter.jpg

An attic's extra storage space can prove invaluable. It can be used as a bedroom, an office, or even just a storage space to free up more room in the bedrooms' closets, depending on the individual's needs and preferences. Here are some things to consider, though, before letting yourself be won over by a home that has this "little extra."

## Most attics have inadequate insulation, which is a major problem

Since roofs aren't always properly insulated, they're frequently the source of significant heat loss in homes. Be sure to check out the attic when you pay a visit to your home.

In particular, if there is even a hint of moisture in the air, thermal bridges, or insufficient insulation, you should know that this space is money losing unless it is renovated. The high cost of heating is directly proportional to the amount of heat lost.

A poorly insulated attic shouldn't deter you from buying a house if you like it otherwise. There are a number of low- or no-cost methods for making this space airtight in any building. Get some price quotes in before you make an offer to buy, and you might be able to negotiate a small discount for this absolutely essential upgrade.

Having an unheated attic shouldn't detract from the home's appeal if you're otherwise satisfied with it.

## How can you tell if an attic is suitable for human habitation?

It's challenging to make long-term plans when buying a house with an unfinished attic in anticipation of future expansion. You can learn more about what is and is not feasible with the help of some measurements.

In fact, it is estimated that in order to convert this top floor into a living room, a ceiling height of at least 1.80 meters together with a roof slope of more than 30% is required. When a particularly massive roof structure makes it seem like the attic is "lost," it's tempting to give up on the renovation project and throw in the towel. However, some specialized businesses can either modify this structure or raise the roof, making the attic accessible once again.

Again, if you're not sure if the attic can be converted into livable space or not, it may be a good idea to reach out to local businesses and request quotes.

## It's important to consider things like flooring, lighting, and thermal comfort when remodeling an attic

Make sure the floor is sturdy enough if you plan to use the attic as additional living space. Experts in the field of construction may advise using drywall to prevent overloading, but there is nothing stopping you from reinforcing the floor instead.

If you set up your living quarters in the attic, you won't have to worry about lighting because the roof windows will let in plenty of natural light. However, once you picture a playroom or office, for instance, you might wonder if the glazed area could be expanded without sacrificing thermal comfort.

_“Inquire if there is a way to increase the amount of glass in a structure without reducing the amount of insulation”._

It is common knowledge that enclosed spaces quickly overheat in the summer and freeze in the winter. Keep this in mind when shopping; exterior insulation can be added at a later date. On the inside, you can choose between mineral wool, glass wool, or glass with reinforced insulation to ward off the sun's rays during the hot summer months.

Why is it important to buy a house with an attic?

Largest housing concerns revolve around the energy passport and energy performance.jpg

Having accurate information about the primary energy consumption of each home is what makes the energy passport, also called an "energy certificate," so useful for comparing properties. This document is required for all construction projects beginning on or after January 1, 2008. An inspection of the building's energy efficiency can be performed at the same time!

## Acquiring knowledge from the energy performance certificate

The primary energy consumption of a home is determined in a controlled environment using a similar level of comfort and within the context of a predetermined use to generate an energy performance certificate. Thus, it facilitates the comparison of two properties' energy efficiency in Luxembourg, but it is not a replacement for a realistic simulation of consumption (which varies according to the weather, but also according to the requirements and habits of the users).

## What responsibilities come with an energy passport?

In 2008, the energy certificate was made required for all construction projects, including additions and remodels. The application and the building permit application must be submitted at the same time. If the work being done does not exceed 10% of the living space (or €1,500 for a single-family home and €3,000 for a multifamily building), then the document is not required.

_“All new construction, additions, and renovations performed after 2008 must have an energy certificate”._

Different types of energy passports exist in the realm of residential buildings because the standards for old and new buildings are different.

## Standards for assessing energy passports

The energy passport's evaluation criteria help shape new approaches to building; these days, improved thermal performances are prioritized in the pursuit of energy-efficient structures. It is our goal to set a new benchmark in energy efficiency in Luxembourg, and the passive house is just the beginning.

Indeed, the Grand Ducal regulation of July 23, 2016, which details the requirements for the primary energy requested by a building, is extremely stringent, even more so than the requirements of neighboring countries. The insulation thickness in the walls should be 20 centimeters, the roof should be 40 centimeters, and the lower slab should receive extra care (which can become a source of heat loss).

The energy passport primarily assesses the building's orientation, thermal envelope, watertight envelope (to prevent thermal bridges and limit condensation, respectively, both of which can contribute to humidity issues), and overall compactness (to ensure the greatest possible volume is heated with the fewest possible losses) (favoring the south for the living rooms, leaving a maximum of space for natural light).

_“The compactness, thermal envelope, airtight envelope, and orientation of the building are all evaluated in the energy passport”._

## How can we improve our construction practices to ensure the standards set in the Energy Passport?

While there are a number of prerequisites that must be met before applying for the energy passport, there are ways to build that allow you to exceed these official recommendations and create even greener homes. With this in mind, the passive house model has been imposed on the territory at large, and an increasing number of high-performance, zero-net-energy buildings are also springing up.

For this reason, while single glazing was sufficient in the 1970s and double glazing in the 2000s, we now rely on triple glazing, with frames that combine solid and waterproof materials like aluminum and wood for maximum energy efficiency.

Though many firms in the industry are still focused on making a profit (and thus on finding the cheapest materials that will allow them to work faster), the future of today's buildings has inspired a lot of introspection. It is becoming more and more important to choose alternatives that not only provide superior thermal comfort, but also offer recyclable solutions that will not pollute the environment when they reach the end of their useful lives.

What do you know about the energy passport?

Rental properties in Luxembourg - find your perfect home.jpg

Finding a suitable rental property in Luxembourg can be challenging, as the market is competitive and the supply is limited. In this setting, landlords can confidently sign a lease with tenants who provide the best guarantees... However, apartment hunting can quickly become a nightmare for those in the market. Here are some quick fixes to get you out of that rut and into your dream apartment.

## Make use of property search alerts

It makes sense to use a real estate portal, where you can browse through numerous rental ads and find the one that best suits your needs.

However, if you want to save time, it's best to conduct searches based on your own criteria. This will ensure that the website only displays properties that are suitable for your needs in terms of price, square footage, amenities, number of rooms, and so on.

_“Prioritize searches that meet your specific criteria to speed up your research”._

Finally, set up alerts to be notified as soon as possible whenever an ad likely to interest you is posted online (always with your search criteria). This way, you can get in touch with the lessor right when the ad goes live by receiving an email or notification.

## Away to the pitch!

Put down the computer and start exploring the area you'll soon call home. To find a rental that suits your needs, you should knock on the doors of real estate agencies and explain what you're looking for. Of course, to increase your chances of finding the hidden gem, you should check out as many local agencies as possible.

Planning ahead for this day will help you make the most of your time if you don't already live in the city. Plan ahead and visit frequently. Focus on the frequency of your visits, make an effort to establish a rapport with the landlord, win his trust, and show some initiative by introducing yourself; this will help you stand out from the crowd of other potential tenants interested in the same rental.

"Since you may have to contend with other suitors for each rental, wager on the number of visits."

## Please bring all necessary paperwork to the appointment

A rental application packet typically contains the following documents: a government-issued photo ID, a tax notice, pay stubs from the previous months, an employment contract, and other financial evidence. Make multiple copies of everything that could help your application right away, including scans and photocopies: a guaranteed job with benefits, a regular paycheck, the support of your parents, etc (if you are still young and they agree to act as guarantors).

You should probably skip the people who show up to the visit without their file and go straight to the people who have everything they need because that will save the owner time. Having a digital version also facilitates communication across personas; for example, if you're meeting with someone who doesn't want to lug around a stack of paperwork, you can respond by suggesting that everything be sent over email right away.

Last but not least, give yourself the best possible shot at finding a rental in Luxembourg by narrowing your search and taking the initiative to contact an agency, making sure to present a thorough file for each potential dwelling. A real estate agent is there to help you from the moment you start looking for a home until the day you move in.

Blog and real estate advices