1. Building Materials and Their Categorization COLOGNE PROJECT 1

Sustainability

• Solid Construction: The building is constructed using solid construction, which is durable and robust. It can be sustainable when using local and recycled materials.
• External Thermal Insulation Composite System (ETICS): The façade is fitted with an ETICS with ceramic cladding. Ceramic is a long-lasting and recyclable material that contributes to energy efficiency.
• Concrete: Used for foundations, floor slabs, and exterior walls. Concrete has a high CO₂ footprint in production but is durable and can be recycled.
• Reinforced Concrete: Used for load-bearing components. Reinforced concrete is long-lasting, though steel production requires significant energy.
• Masonry: Used for exterior and interior walls. Brick masonry is durable and can be made from natural materials.
• Gypsum Board: Used for non-load-bearing interior walls. Gypsum board is easily recyclable and has a low environmental impact.
• Plastic Windows: The windows are made of plastic with triple-glazed thermal insulation. Plastic is durable and contributes to energy efficiency, although its production is energy-intensive.
• Parquet Flooring: Used in living areas. Parquet from sustainably managed forests (e.g., FSC-certified) is environmentally friendly.
• Porcelain Stoneware: Used in bathrooms and kitchens. Porcelain stoneware is durable and easy to maintain, though its production requires significant energy.
• Aluminum: Used for window sills and railings. Aluminum is lightweight and recyclable, though its production is energy-intensive.
• Stainless Steel: Used for sanitary fixtures and fittings. Stainless steel is durable and recyclable.

Health Impacts

• ETICS: When improperly installed, it can lead to moisture issues, but with correct implementation, it significantly improves insulation and energy efficiency.
• Concrete and Reinforced Concrete: May release pollutants during production but are harmless once installed.
• Gypsum Board: Safe for health as long as no harmful additives are used.
• Plastic Windows: Can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when new; however, modern products have significantly reduced emissions and contribute to thermal and acoustic insulation.
• Parquet Flooring: Safe for health if installed without harmful adhesives or varnishes.
• Porcelain Stoneware: Emits no harmful substances and is considered safe.
• Aluminum and Stainless Steel: Do not release harmful emissions and are considered safe.

2. Energy Concept

Sustainability

• District Heating: The heating system uses district heating, which is generally more efficient and environmentally friendly than individual heating systems. It can be sourced from renewable energy or combined heat and power systems.
• Underfloor Heating: Apartments are equipped with underfloor heating, which is energy-efficient and ensures even heat distribution.
• KfW Efficiency House 55 Standard: The building meets the requirements of the KfW Efficiency House 55 standard, meaning it is highly energy-efficient with low primary energy consumption.
• Thermal Insulation: The building features high-quality thermal insulation (ETICS), reducing energy consumption.
• Triple-Glazed Windows: Windows are fitted with triple-glazed thermal insulation glass, minimizing heat loss and increasing energy efficiency.
• Ventilation System: The apartments have a demand-controlled decentralized exhaust ventilation system that regulates humidity and improves air quality with minimal energy consumption.

Health Impacts

• District Heating: Since the heat is generated centrally, there are no combustion residues in the apartments, improving indoor air quality.
• Underfloor Heating: Prevents dust circulation, which is particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers.
• Ventilation System: The decentralized exhaust ventilation ensures controlled ventilation, prevents mold growth, and improves air quality.

3. Summary of Sustainability and Health Compatibility

Sustainability

Positive:

• Solid construction, ETICS, parquet flooring from sustainable wood, district heating, KfW Efficiency House 55 standard, triple glazing.

Areas for Improvement:

• Concrete and reinforced concrete have a high CO₂ footprint.
• Plastic windows and porcelain stoneware require significant energy for production.

Health Impacts

Positive:

• Underfloor heating, decentralized ventilation system, health-safe materials such as gypsum board, parquet, and porcelain stoneware.

Considerations:

• Plastic windows may release minimal VOCs when new, though modern variants have significantly reduced emissions.
• Proper installation of ETICS is necessary to prevent moisture accumulation and ensure optimal performance.

4. Recommendations

Sustainability

• Use recycled concrete and steel to reduce the CO₂ footprint.
• Use FSC-certified wood for parquet flooring.
• Opt for low-VOC windows to minimize emissions.

Health

• Ensure proper installation of ETICS to prevent moisture-related issues.
• Use low-emission varnishes and adhesives for parquet flooring.

Overall, the building project is well-conceived in terms of sustainability and health compatibility. Some areas can be optimized, particularly regarding the CO₂ footprint of materials. However, energy efficiency measures and responsible material selection contribute significantly to an environmentally friendly and healthy living environment.