Construction errors

Where work is done, errors can happen. Unfortunately, the consequences of such construction errors are discovered later and can often be corrected only with significant effort and cost, leading to tiresome altercations.

With optimal planning and good controlling, such construction errors can be avoided from the start. This is a short list of typical construction errors:

Thermal bridges (see section Thermal bridges)

  • In general, watch for proper execution of construction; this is the greatest source of future problems.
  • Ensure correct installation of windows, doors and roller shutters (insulation of window headers and roller shutter encasements, correct adjustment).
  • Important: thermal isolation of projecting construction elements such as balconies and as well as insulation of ceiling junctions
  • Thermal bridges, especially for multiple layer constructions, in the area of the roof slope and dormers and in the area of the footing (insulation of basement wall).

Air tightness (see section Air tightness)

  • Standard wood construction or light-weight construction must always be wind-tight outside (except back-ventilated areas).
  • Ensure wind-tight connections on transitions such as basement to ground-floor wall or wall to roof.
  • For vapor barriers, ensure clean, tight insulation with overlaps and gluing of joints.
  • Leaky weak point: the connection of the roof framework to the masonry and everything that penetrates the roof.

Thermal insulation

You must ensure proper installation of insulation.

  • No moisture must reach the thermal insulation. Wet insulation (e.g., due to strong rain) significantly reduces the insulation effect.
  • Wind-tight execution is equally important.
  • Caution: ensure adequate insulation thickness. Local and regional building authorities prescribe minimum U-values if a subsidy is available. In general, the higher the temperature that must be insulated against the outside, the thicker the insulation must be.

Drainage & sealing against moisture

Moisture is the greatest enemy of a home. In the basement, rain and percolating water that can rise can cause difficult damage to the structure. Prevention is better than a cure: Once a wall has been permeated, its thermal insulation properties (and possibly its bearing capacity) rapidly decline.

  • Facades and components must be installed so as to leave moisture no chance.
  • In special cases, newly developed, solvent-free products based on silicon can be used as a protective layer for the facade.
  • Execute drainage such that water cannot rise above the basement footing. If the ground water is higher, then a water-tight trench is required.
  • A foil on the basement wall prevents the capillary rise of moisture.
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Good planning helps to avoid expensive construction errors.