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  • Cooking on induction

    The benefits of cooking on induction are It works more efficiently and gives less energy loss : with gas, up to 50% of the heat escapes through the pan and flame into the air; Induction cooking is more efficient due to less energy loss and heats up faster than gas - this is due to the electromagnetic effect that directly heats the pan; induction achieves an efficiency of 85 to 90%; But also: increased safety , no more open flames and less risk of gas leaks or carbon monoxide Better air quality in the kitchen, because electric/induction cooking does not release combustion gases as is the case with gas flames. lower CO₂ emissions and better for the climate. Cooking appliances and the meter cupboard There is a wide choice of hobs and cookers, both in terms of size and power. Hob sizes Hob capacity classes up to 3.7 kW (1-phase max): Maximum connection value for a standard socket or single group; the use of all zones simultaneously is limited 3.7-7.4 kW (2-phase): Uses Perilex connection on two groups; higher peak powers per zone possible without many restrictions. Check the hob documentation for “connection load” (kW) and “number of phases” (1, 2 or 3 phase); Check your meter box: which main fuse (e.g. 1x25 A, 3x25 A), how many free groups, and is there already a Perilex cooking group present; Have a certified electrician assess whether: a separate cooking group can be added, and your current main connection (e.g. 3x25 A) is sufficient, or whether reinforcement is required from the grid operator. Stoves Stoves combine an induction cooktop with a built-in oven. Differences from a separate cooktop:   Complete appliance : Standing stove (60-90 cm wide) with oven (often 60-70L, A++ energy label) and induction zone (4-5 burners); Connection : Power required (7-11 kW, 2- or 3-phase Perilex), no standard socket; installation €200-€500; Size : Freestanding or built-in. Suitable pans It's a myth that you always need to buy new pans. Check if your existing pans are induction-safe using the magnet test: a magnet should stick to the base (stainless steel with a magnetic base, cast iron, or a thick metal base). Only if the bottom of the pan is warped or severely soiled* will it need to be replaced.   Cleaning tip   Costs and savings Gas Gas consumption costs average €40-€80 per year, to which the €326 fixed costs must be added. Induction The prices of an induction hob/stove vary from €240 to €1,200. However, cooking on induction does result in a net cost saving. On average, induction costs €50-€100 per year in electricity. Other interesting links (dutch only) MilieuCentraal.nl: inductie kookplaat Do you have any questions, ideas or would you like to share your experiences regarding topics in the "DIY" category? Email us at duurzaamkleiburg1@gmail.com . Together we'll chart the path to a future-proof Kleiburg. DIY is about making adjustments to your own apartment, not about homeowners' association (HOA) regulations. Residents' experiences help others get started—so sharing is highly encouraged!

  • In short: the options at a glance

    As part of its orientation phase, the Sustainability committee commissioned three studies to explore options for making Kleiburg phase 1 more sustainable. The results  of these studies are described in detail on this website. This page only contains a brief overview: where each topic links to the relevant page with more detailed information; intended as a tool to gain an overview of the total picture of possible sustainability measures for Kleiburg phase 1; and will raise questions and therefore contains all the links to the underlying articles and studies. To compile this overview, Perplexity (our research tool) was asked 2 questions: What is the most cost-effective sequence of measures for an apartment building like ours? This question included all proposals and recommendations from the preliminary studies. Does combining sustainability measures with necessary maintenance have advantages and, if so, which ones? 1. The most cost-effective order according to Perplexity IMPORTANT: Perplexity has provided the effective sequence and associated costs/benefits based on information collected on the internet regarding the sustainability of an EBA apartment building (built in 1973 , 11 floors, 110 apartments) in general. Therefore, the information is NOT directly applicable to Kleiburg. To obtain a Kleiburg-specific overview, a customized consultation is required . The intention is that the future tailor-made advice will provide three packages of sustainability measures with the associated financial consequences. Based on this advice, the General Meeting (ALV) will decide whether and, if so, which package of measures can be implemented. 1.1. Roof, hydronic balancing and solar panels Roof insulation (from Rc 2.96 to 5.92 m²K/W over 2958 m²) offers immediate savings of 15-25% on block heating. Roof insulation is cost-effective for all apartments in a homeowners' association (VvE) building. Without proper roof insulation, warm air from the lower apartments rises via shafts, stairwells, and ventilation ducts to the roof, where it escapes unused – accounting for up to 25-30% of the total heat loss. Better insulation (Rc to 5.92) retains this heat and distributes it more evenly across the floors via lower return temperatures in the heating network. Hydronic balancing : 10-15% savings, €90 per apartment SVVE subsidy, and a direct reduction in monthly service charges; combine with replacement of the heat exchangers (Ferroli) due to potential financing from the National Heat Fund. Solar panels (approx. 100-200 kWp on roof, aimed at 50-100 MWh/year for elevators/lighting/boiler/hydrophore. These measures deliver the highest savings per euro and a strong base position for VvE subsidies. Note: An additional advantage of roof insulation and water-side balancing is that the heating pipes are less stressed, resulting in less wear and tear and leaks. 1.2. WTW heat pump A heat recovery heat pump on the 10 roof fans recovers heat from the air at approximately 21°C and increases the temperature of the return water from the district heating system before Vattenfall brings it back to approximately 65°C. Addition: The WTW heat pump makes the above measures (see 1.1.) more attractive, but does not replace them. 1.3. Gallery/balcony floors, ground floor and console cladding Floor insulation of gallery/balcony including upstands/frames and bracket cladding to prevent cold bridges: 10% savings and increased comfort; Addition: Ground floor floor insulation only if specific conditions are met. These are cost-effective measures, but with a slightly lower saving per euro than roof + water-side adjustment and WTW Floor insulation is more important than console cladding due to higher savings (15-20% vs. 3-5%), a wider range of comfort, and better subsidies. Console cladding is valuable but secondary. 1.4. Sodium-ion batteries, ventilation grilles and CO₂-controlled ventilation Regarding the batteries : for the meter in the bend: given the high consumption with evening peaks (lifts, lighting, pumps) and continuous load (hydrophore, fans), a battery is very cost-effective and strongly recommended; for the meter in the head: given the consumption in the evening, energy storage is useful and potentially profitable. Regarding ventilation grilles: read the insulation pages and ventilation ; Regarding CO₂-controlled ventilation: read the ventilation page . 1.5. Facade/cavity wall insulation behind concrete panels Rc 0.83 to 1.5/2.4 (for facade with 20% panels and 80% glazing H R++) , highest investment but suitable for completing the insulation of the shell. 1.6. Benefit, savings, costs and returns 2. The benefits of combining necessary maintenance with sustainability Besides sustainability, the VvE is responsible for two urgently needed maintenance measures (see also our MJOP): 2.1. concrete damage repair; 2.2. replacement of the heat exchangers. SVVE/SEEH+ only subsidizes energy measures (roof, floor, and facade insulation, heat recovery (HRV), and water-side balancing), not regular maintenance such as concrete damage repair and exchanger replacement. But combining this necessary maintenance with sustainability measures can yield significant financial benefits. 2.1. Combining concrete repair with sustainability Concrete damage repair  is not directly eligible for subsidies such as SVVE, nor for a loan from the Warmtefonds. However, there are indirect subsidy benefits through combination: Halve scaffolding and mobilization costs (40% savings); The SVVE package bonus  (for more than 3 measures) provides a 30-50% higher subsidy; the package bonus also applies without concrete repairs. However, the combination provides 2.6 times the financial benefit due to implementation costs (scaffolding/mobilization). If concrete repair is necessary, combining it with other measures would yield a 67% advantage. 2.2. Combination of heat exchanger replacement with sustainability Replacing the exchangers (our Ferolli's) ourselves receives no subsidy ; but enables package formation so that other measures yield 62% more SVVE. This is the smart financial leverage of combining MJOP with sustainability. The latest heat exchanger models have a built-in flow restrictor and temperature controller. This allows for 100% centralized adjustment. With our current exchangers, 40% of the adjustments must be done manually in the apartments. Replacing exchangers from 2013 with new ones reduces the costs of hydronic balancing by 40 to 50%. In addition, the replacement of the exchangers (2013→2026) + dynamic water-side balancing would be a recognized sustainability measure with 15% savings on the amount of heat (GJ) that the apartment building takes from Vattenfall via the heating network due to more efficient operation of the system. Perplexity concludes that replacement of the exchangers in combination with the dynamic adjustment would be 100% financeable through the Warmtefonds VvE Energy Saving Loan . Do you have any questions, ideas or would you like to share your experiences? Email us at duurzaamkleiburg1@gmail.com . Together we'll chart a path toward a future-proof Kleiburg.

  • Who are we?

    The committee members of Committee Sustainability Els van Laarhoven (1948) is owner and has lived on Kleiburg since 2015; retired; was a social lawyer, member of the salvage committee 2015-2016, secretary of the board 2017-2020, member of the CV restoration committee 2020-2022. Sander Schreuder (1987) is owner, worked on his own appartment with Femke, and lived happily in Kleiburg for about 10 years. He is an architect (with a background in construction). Marius Stekelenburg (1946) In my professional life I worked as a medical doctor. Throughout my life I have had a strong interest in construction projects. From 2014 to 2016 I served as chair of the board in the VvE, and from 2020 to 2025 I was a member of the technical committee. "Wanted" and website support Would you like to share your skills, thoughts and/or help? Email us at duurzaamkleiburg1@gmail.com Mark Wieferink (1973) Owner, based in Kleiburg since 2020. Background in IT and procurement. Served on the abandoned bicycle committee for two years, then joined this team. Currently responsible for the development and maintenance of this website. Do you have any questions, ideas or would you like to share your experiences? Email us at duurzaamkleiburg1@gmail.com . Together we'll chart a path toward a future-proof Kleiburg.

  • The Way - how we make Kleiburg more sustainable together

    The sustainability upgrade for Kleiburg phase 1 is being implemented through a step-by-step plan that helps us make decisions together. The advantage of this is that everyone can contribute, but it does take time. Ultimately, the General Members' Meeting (ALV) will decide on the plan's content. Our goal remains the same: a comfortable, energy-efficient, and future-proof apartment building. The process and the path The sustainability of Kleiburg phase 1 is a multi-year process . It consists of two main phases: I. first we make a plan together; II. then follows the execution. Phase I: making a plan together The plan must answer the questions: Which measures are technically and financially feasible? How can we improve living comfort (fewer draughts, more stable indoor climate)? How do we finance this, and which subsidies or funds can help? What does this mean for the monthly contribution and energy costs? The 6 steps To create a well-founded plan, we follow six steps. These are based on guidelines for homeowners' associations (VvEs), but adapted to the situation in Kleiburg phase 1. Phase I - the 6 steps Step 1: Orientation Research and knowledge gathering. Consider studies done by Utrecht University of Applied Sciences and Steeds Advies BV , as well as courses/webinars attended by committee members (e.g., from the Dutch government, the Heat Fund, and the Municipality of Amsterdam).   Step 2: Share ideas Informing homeowners and residents and identifying preferences. This website plays a central role in this: everyone can access information and indicate their priorities via questionnaires (coming in the near future).   Step 3: Create a concept plan Residents' input will be incorporated into a draft plan. This plan includes a proposal for a customized recommendation , including several potential sustainability packages.   Step 4: Share the concept plan The draft plan will be discussed and shared widely (with both owners and residents of Kleiburg phase 1), so that everyone can respond.   Step 5: AGM decision on budget The committee requests the ALV to make a budget available for the tailor-made advice.   Step 6: Customized advice and decision The customized advice is presented and the ALV decides which plan will be implemented. Where are we now? We are currently in step 2  : informing owners and residents and gathering their preferences. This website is the primary tool for this. The committee is also developing questionnaires and other resources to gain insight into what residents and owners consider important. Phase II: from plan to implementation After a positive ALV decision, the implementation phase starts. This runs from preliminary design; to final design, including financing and grant applications; to tender; and execution. We will come back with more information on this phase later. Do you have any questions, ideas or would you like to share your experiences? Email us at duurzaamkleiburg1@gmail.com . Together we'll chart a path toward a future-proof Kleiburg.

  • Tailored research and advice

    research and advice are required as preparation for implementation. They focus on concrete measures, the sequence in which they should be carried out, and their financial and energy impacts per building. Such advice is required by the National Warmtefonds as a condition for providing loans. This research has not yet been carried out. What is a customized advice? A tailor-made advice is an   independent   , guaranteed sustainability advice   at building level that specifically states which energy-saving measures make the most sense technically and financially for that specific building; describes the various measures and packages of measures with investment costs, savings and payback period including costs and benefits; and must be drawn up by an advisor/company with, among other things, BRL 9500-02 certification to guarantee quality and independence. For a VvE Energy Saving Loan from the National Heat Fund, a Customized VvE Energy Advice is   required   ; this advice provides the basis for the selected measures and measure packages. The customized advice forms the basis for   three   choice packages, with concrete, building-specific scenarios including costs, benefits, and payback period, so that the homeowners' association can choose accordingly. Costs of customized advice For a 100-apartment building with 11 floors, a customized consultation costs approximately €20,000 to €30,000, based on a typical price of €200-300 per apartment. For large, complex high-rise buildings (including extensive surveys, a resident survey, and long-term maintenance plan integration), this can increase to €35,000 due to additional hours for the roof/facade/elevator and communal systems. To request this advice, the AGM must give permission and grant a mandate. Subsidy The SVVE subsidy (RVO) reimburses up to 50% of the costs for sustainability research at homeowners' associations, with a maximum of €12,500 for larger complexes. The SVVE subsidy for customized advice must be applied for before the start of the advice process, ideally immediately after the first ALV mandate for the financing of this advice. Read   all about saving, borrowing and subsidies   here  . Note: a distinction must be made between exploratory studies, and tailored research and advice: Exploratory studies Description : reports produced during the orientation phase. These feasibility studies focus on whether something is, in principle, possible — technically, financially, legally and organizationally. Involved parties : this includes reports by students from Hogeschool Utrecht (HU) and Steeds Advies B.V. (“Steeds”). Additional research carried out by the committee also falls within this category. Tailored research and advice (later in the process) - this page Description : research and advice are required as preparation for implementation. They focus on concrete measures, the sequence in which they should be carried out, and their financial and energy impacts per building. Such advice is required by the National Warmtefonds as a condition for providing loans. This research has not yet been carried out. Do you have any questions, ideas or would you like to share your experiences? Email us at duurzaamkleiburg1@gmail.com  . Together we'll chart a path toward a future-proof Kleiburg.

  • Exploratory studies

    In 2024 and 2025, 3 research reports were published: (2 reports) by student teams of Utrecht University of Applied Sciences ("HU"); (1 report) by Consultancy Steeds Advies BV ("Steeds"). Both the students and the consultancy firm Steeds conducted their research based on: an inspection of the building, the shell and a number of strategically selected apartments; the construction drawings; the MJOP; the annual accounts for electricity and heating network; and the budget and annual accounts of our VvE.   On this basis, the technical possibilities have been mapped out for insulation , ventilation , and for generating and saving energy . Both the students and Steeds Advies have made a financial calculation of three sustainability scenarios based on: the real energy use; and the costs of necessary interventions, reserves, subsidies and loans.   In addition, the Commission also conducted some research itself. The HU reports Three teams of students from Utrecht University of Applied Sciences worked on this study project in 2024. All students explored a wide range of construction options for potential applications in Kleiburg. Their starting point was a list of considerations proposed by our Sustainability Committee [ downloadable here ]. Students were in two teams mechanical engineering; technical business administration; and students of REGO (a study aimed at creating and maintaining the built environment such as cities, neighborhoods, buildings and infrastructure).   Team 3 (also REGO) consisted of part-time students (who already work in the field alongside their studies) who conducted a feasibility study. This study focused more on what would be the best practical solution.   The study project resulted in 3 reports [ download here ]: one report with advice from full-time students; a feasibility study of the part-time students; and a technical design by the part-time students. The Steeds reports In the autumn of 2024, consultancy firm Steeds Advies BV (Steeds), financed by the municipality of Amsterdam , conducted a feasibility study on the possibilities for making Kleiburg phase 1 more sustainable. The committee considered it useful to have a professional consultancy firm supplement the HU reports.   The committee assumed that this consultancy would also review the reports written by HU students and incorporate their findings. However, during the process, this proved not to be the case: Steeds Advies uses a standard computer model; Steeds was unable to include a number of the innovative possibilities mentioned by the students in his research, as they were not included in the computer model. While disappointing in this regard, the advice is nevertheless valuable, particularly as the impact of various topics provides a clear insight into the financial consequences for owners. The research resulted in the following report: [ Download here ]. Own research When writing the articles for this website, questions sometimes arose that were not answered in the reports.   In seeking answers to these questions, the committee also submitted the questions to the AI search engine Perplexity . Perplexity is an AI-powered search engine that answers your questions instantly in plain language and immediately shows sources; The AI search engine scours the web for each question and retrieves information in real time, so answers are up-to-date; The answers given were checked for accuracy on the websites of relevant sources. Shared conclusions The HU and Steeds studies state that the main areas for improvement for Kleiburg are mainly   the insulation of the shell   and   the ventilation in the apartments   . Our own research also showed that dynamic adjustment of the hot water system could be an interesting measure: This measure has not been investigated by either the students or Steeds; Dynamic balancing would lead to a longer lifespan of the risers, fewer leaks and blockages due to magnetite/sludge, and savings on heating costs.   Under the chapter " The research results " the findings and recommendations will be addressed individually. The following will also be addressed: what are the benefits in terms of energy savings, comfort and health; what are the costs and payback period; financing options; any comments from the committee. The implementation phase - The customized advice (step 6 in our sustainability process " The way " ) What is a customized advice? A tailor-made advice is an independent , guaranteed sustainability advice at building level that specifically states which energy-saving measures make the most sense technically and financially for that specific building; describes the various measures and packages of measures with investment costs, savings and payback period including costs and benefits; and must be drawn up by an advisor/company with, among other things, BRL 9500-02 certification to guarantee quality and independence. For a VvE Energy Saving Loan from the National Heat Fund, a Customized VvE Energy Advice is   required   ; this advice provides the basis for the selected measures and measure packages. The customized advice forms the basis for   three   choice packages, with concrete, building-specific scenarios including costs, benefits, and payback period, so that the homeowners' association can choose accordingly. Costs of customized advice For a 100-apartment building with 11 floors, a customized consultation costs approximately €20,000 to €30,000, based on a typical price of €200-300 per apartment. For large, complex high-rise buildings (including extensive surveys, a resident survey, and long-term maintenance plan integration), this can increase to €35,000 due to additional hours for the roof/facade/elevator and communal systems. To request this advice, the AGM must give permission and grant a mandate. Subsidy The SVVE subsidy (RVO) reimburses up to 50% of the costs for sustainability research at homeowners' associations, with a maximum of €12,500 for larger complexes. The SVVE subsidy for customized advice must be applied for before the start of the advice process, ideally immediately after the first ALV mandate for the financing of this advice. Read all about saving, borrowing and subsidies here . Note: a distinction must be made between exploratory studies, and tailored research and advice: Exploratory studies (currently) Description : reports produced during the orientation phase. These feasibility studies focus on whether something is, in principle, possible — technically, financially, legally and organizationally. Involved parties : this includes reports by students from Hogeschool Utrecht (HU) and Steeds Advies B.V. (“Steeds”). Additional research carried out by the committee also falls within this category. Tailored research and advice (later in the process) Description : research and advice are required as preparation for implementation. They focus on concrete measures, the sequence in which they should be carried out, and their financial and energy impacts per building. Such advice is required by the National Warmtefonds as a condition for providing loans. This research has not yet been carried out. Do you have any questions, ideas or would you like to share your experiences? Email us at duurzaamkleiburg1@gmail.com . Together we'll chart a path toward a future-proof Kleiburg.

  • Off the gas

    Why ? Our homes are connected to district heating, so the gas connection is only used for cooking. Benefits of removing the gas connection There are practical, financial, health and environmental reasons to stop cooking with gas: increased safety , no more open flames and less risk of gas leaks or carbon monoxide; better air quality in the kitchen, because electric/induction cooking does not release combustion gases as with gas flames. lower CO₂ emissions and better for the climate; financial: for your gas connection alone, you pay over €27 per month , regardless of your consumption, just for cooking: fixed grid management costs Liander € 266.62 fixed delivery costs energy supplier min*. €60,- minimum € 326.62 per year * The supplier may determine the amount of the fixed delivery costs himself. How much does it cost to remove the gas connection? If the grid operator can decide when to remove the gas connection, removal is free; if you choose a different time, it will cost approximately €450. The waiting time for free removal can vary from a few months to 1 year. You can request to remove the connection via www.mijnaansluiting.nl . Disadvantages? The only drawbacks are that you'll need to buy a new appliance and it will take some time to get used to cooking on induction. For more information, see the article " cooking on induction ," which is also available in this library. Do you have any questions, ideas or would you like to share your experiences regarding topics in the "DIY" category? Email us at duurzaamkleiburg1@gmail.com . Together we'll chart the path to a future-proof Kleiburg. DIY is about making adjustments to your own apartment, not about homeowners' association (HOA) regulations. Residents' experiences help others get started—so sharing is highly encouraged!

  • Research results: insulation | the roof

    Table of contents of insulation Introduction The roof (this page) The floors (undersides) of gallery walkways and balconies, including upstands Front and rear facade: wall and brackets Front and rear facades: window frames, glazing and air gaps Ground-floor floors Loose ends The roof - the current situation Construction of the Kleiburg building roof The flat roof of our building consists of: the concrete floor with reinforcement; an insulation layer of 100 mm (possibly replaced in 2013); 2-layer bitumen; A gravel layer of approximately 5 to 7 cm. With an Rc value of 2.958 m²/Kw, the roof covering meets the renovation requirements, but is below the current new construction requirements (6.3 m²/Kw). What does this mean in concrete terms? Homes built from 2000 onwards generally already have a reasonable insulation value, which means that the effect of additional insulation measures is more limited than in older homes (see also insulation - introduction ). In the year 2000, the mandatory minimum Rc value for roof insulation in new-build homes in the Netherlands was 2.5 m²K/W . The current renovation standard is therefore the same as the requirement that applied to new construction in 2000.   Opportunities for improvement The HU students gave 3 options, Steeds Advies gave 1 option: (HU) Option 1: Warm roof + inverted roof; (HU) Option 2: Warm roof; (HU) Option 3: Warm roof + inverted roof with sedum; and (Always) Option 4: as option 2, but with a different thickness of insulation material. Option 1. (HU) Warm roof + inverted roof The existing roof already has an insulation layer and can be provided with an additional insulation layer. This layer is applied on top of the existing insulation and Provided with the existing gravel layer. Because the current roof edge is too low, it must be replaced with a higher raised roof edge. This brings the Rc value to 5.889 m²k/w Option 2. (HU) Warm roof Another option is to remove the old insulation layer and replace it with a new, improved version (warm roof construction). By installing 220 mm PIR insulation, an Rc value of 5.918 m²/kW can be achieved. As with option 1, this also requires modifications to the roof edge.   Option 3. (HU) Warm roof + inverted roof with sedum A third option is to leave the old insulation layer in place and apply an additional layer of insulation on top, as in option 1, and then cover it with sedum where possible. This also requires modifications to the roof edge, as with options 1 and 2. Sedum won't increase the Rc value, but it will provide additional cooling in the summer. The sedum on the roof does require maintenance several times a year.   Option 4. (Always) As option 2, but with a different thickness of insulation material The warm roof as described in option 2, but with high-quality, 140 mm thick, hard-pressed PIR insulation as insulation material. This high-quality, pressed PIR is thinner because it has a higher insulation value. It still needs to be investigated whether the roof edge needs to be adjusted with this variant. Costs, subsidy and National Heat Fund The roof area of Kleiburg phase 1 is measured differently in various reports, namely approximately 962 m², 860 m², and 754 m². Accurate surface area measurement is important not only for the cost of the improvement but also because the subsidy is provided per m².   The reports only provide a cost estimate ( 2024 price level ) for options 2 and 4. This is only a rough estimate, as the final price depends on the chosen option and the insulation materials used. The cost estimates differ: €96,122 for a surface area of 860m2 with option 2; and €211,411 for a surface area of 754m2 with option 4.   Subsidies for energy-saving measures, including roof insulation, can be applied for through the SVVE (Homeowners' Association). The condition is that the new insulation material has a minimum thermal resistance of 3.5 m²K/W . This means that option 1 is not eligible for subsidy. The subsidy amounts to: for one insulation measure: €16.25 per m2; for two or more insulation measures: €32.50 per m2; for the smallest surface area this amounts to 754 x € 16.25 = € 12,252 or 754 x € 32.50 = € 24,505. The roof insulation can be further financed by a loan from the National Heat Fund. Read all about saving, borrowing and subsidies here . Marginal note ( Protected cityscape ) In the first three options, the current roof edge is too low and will have to be replaced with a higher, raised roof edge. The building's aesthetic committee may only grant permission for this if it is also done for the other three phases. Whether the roof edge must also be raised for option 4 still needs to be investigated. Want to read more about insulation? Introduction The roof (this page) The floors (undersides) of gallery walkways and balconies, including upstands Front and rear facade: wall and brackets Front and rear facades: window frames, glazing and air gaps Ground-floor floors Loose ends Do you have any questions, ideas or would you like to share your experiences? Email us at duurzaamkleiburg1@gmail.com . Together we'll chart a path toward a future-proof Kleiburg.

  • Research results: - insulation

    Table of contents of insulation Introduction (this page) The roof The floors (undersides) of gallery walkways and balconies, including upstands Front and rear facade: wall and brackets Front and rear facades: window frames, glazing and air gaps Ground-floor floors Loose ends Introduction During the period when Kleiburg was built , in the 1970s, there were hardly any regulations regarding insulation. The EBA cast construction system was used for Kleiburg 's construction in 1973. The EBA system does, however, create so-called thermal bridges . A thermal bridge is a place where heat and cold easily intersect because insulation is lacking or broken. In winter, heat leaks out and cold enters. In summer, the reverse can happen: heat enters through the same connection. In many 1970s apartment buildings (such as Kleiburg), concrete floors, balconies, and galleries extend from the inside to the outside without any insulation interruption. The concrete conducts heat directly – as if the inside and outside are connected. Since 1996, insulation requirements have become stricter. This is shown in the diagram below: the blue Numbers indicate the thermal conductivity of a building component such as a wall, roof, or window (U-value). The worst insulation has the highest number. The lower the number, the better the insulation retains heat; and the Red numbers indicate thermal resistance (RC). This is a measure of how well a material or structure impedes heat transfer. The higher the thermal resistance, the better the insulation capacity of the material or structure. This chart also shows that insulation yields significantly more at low initial levels, with the effect decreasing as insulation improves. This means that the biggest step in energy savings per euro invested is achieved by insulating those parts of our building that were not renovated and/or insulated in 2013. Want to read more about insulation? Introduction   (this page) The roof The floors (undersides) of gallery walkways and balconies, including upstands Front and rear facade: wall and brackets Front and rear facades: window frames, glazing and air gaps Ground-floor floors Loose ends Do you have any questions, ideas or would you like to share your experiences? Email us at duurzaamkleiburg1@gmail.com . Together we'll chart a path toward a future-proof Kleiburg.

  • Research results: insulation | front and rear facade: wall and brackets

    Table of contents of insulation Introduction The roof The floors (undersides) of gallery walkways and balconies, including upstands Front and rear facade: wall and brackets (this page) Front and rear facades: window frames, glazing and air gaps Ground-floor floors Loose ends The current situation The front and rear facades are largely made of glass. Only at the (concrete) structural brackets (known as the "console") is a concrete wall, alternately finished with a 1.60 m wide concrete gravel panel or a 40 cm wooden panel. (left) Timber façade panels (right) Gravel-faced façade panels During the 2013 renovation, the exterior facades were renovated at the front and rear, but apart from the installation of HR++ glass, the facades were not further insulated. The thermal bridges, in particular, (see explanation in Insulation - introduction ) the consoles have not been tackled. In February 2022, an infrared camera was used to investigate where our building loses heat and where cold enters. The camera records heat radiation and translates it into colors. The interpretation depends on whether the shots were taken indoors or outdoors. Outdoor recordings mean red/yellow/orange heat loss; blue/green well insulated On indoor recordings it is the other way around: blue/green = cold ingress, poorly insulated red/yellow) = warm, well insulated The concrete brackets —the protruding supports that support the galleries—stand out in the thermal images. Because this solid concrete extends from the interior to the exterior, it conducts heat outward and cold inward. The concrete bracket - outside an apartment - the red and yellow shows the apartment heat coming out The concrete bracket - within an apartment. The blue part is the bracket and shows the outside heat coming in The problem arises because the bracket isn't thermally broken. There's also heat loss because the facade beneath the brackets only has 20 mm of cavity wall insulation.   The current facade construction with a bracket consists of: inner layer (concrete): 70 mm; cavity wall insulation: 20 mm; cavity: 50 mm; outer layer (concrete): 70 mm; console connected to the dividing interior wall. The Rc value of the current facade structure is 0.83. The minimum requirement for renovation according to the Building Decree is an Rc of 1.4. Therefore, the current insulation values do not meet the required energy performance standards. Opportunities for improvement The greatest improvement is expected from insulating the brackets. However, this is only effective if the concrete exterior wall is also insulated.   The facades There are 2 options   Option 1 – cavity wall insulation Insulating the air space between the building's interior and exterior walls. This can be done in the 50 mm cavity with: · Supafil glass wool insulation; environmentally friendly, Rc value 1.5; · pure; non-biodegradable and less environmentally friendly; Rc value 2.4.   Option 2 – Insulate the outside This is an insulation layer on the outside of the building   Both HU students and Steeds Advies agree that exterior wall insulation will significantly improve a home's energy efficiency and thermal comfort. The Rc value increases to 5 . With exterior wall insulation, insulation material is applied to the exterior of the building, which retains heat inside the house and reduces energy loss. The existing gravel panels must be demolished and replaced with insulation panels. This is possible in various materials. External Wall Insulation (EWI) system with render finish || External Wall Insulation (EWI) system with brick slips When implementing this measure, several important points should be taken into account: it is necessary to demolish the existing gravel panels, which entails both cost and logistical challenges and inconvenience; The building's modifications may result in a changed appearance, for which a building inspection is required (read more about Kleiburg, a protected urban view here ). Facade insulation - costs, subsidies, financing   Option 1: cavity wall insulation Costs: The average price for cavity wall insulation with 50mm polyurethane foam is between €25 and €35 per m² , including installation. These costs can vary depending on various factors. The total cost is between €36,750 and €51,450. Subsidy: The measure is eligible for a subsidy. This amounts to: for one insulation measure: €5.25 per m2; for two or more insulation measures: €10.50 per m2; for a total surface area of 1470 m2 this is €7,717.50 / €15,435. Option 2: external wall insulation Costs: Steeds Advies estimates the costs of this insulation at €610,000. Subsidy: The measure is eligible for a subsidy. This amounts to: for one insulation measure: €20.25 per m2; for two or more insulation measures: €40.50 per m2; for a total surface area of 1470 m2 this is €29,767/€59,535.   The insulation of the facade walls can be further financed by a loan from the National Heat Fund. Insulation of the consoles The students consider it crucial to address the thermal bridge in the cavity wall by insulating the brackets. This reduces heat loss and significantly increases living comfort. Steeds did not investigate this because this measure was not included in their computer program (see also: The Research ).   PIR insulation was chosen as the insulation material. This was because its insulation values were good but not too thick. Insulation thickness was a key factor in determining the insulation material here due to the clearance height under the brackets. The insulation thickness chosen was 50 mm. The cladding elements can be finished with a thin concrete top layer or a decorative concrete-look finish. This gives the cladding elements a concrete look that complements the building's design. Due to the requirements imposed on buildings in a protected cityscape , cladding up to halfway up the consoles could be chosen. A permit will have to be applied for. Console insulation - costs, subsidies and financing Costs: the costs of this intervention are estimated at €52,140 for the PIR boards and €68,760 for the concrete finish in the spring of 2024; Per console, the procedure costs €232.50. The total cost of the procedure is €120,900. Subsidy: Insulation of concrete consoles is subsidized if it is part of the total insulated facade surface; the subsidy amount for consoles is related to this and follows the rate of the building shell measure to which they belong and is therefore dependent on the choice of cavity wall insulation or external wall insulation; only if the facade insulation and insulation of the consoles can be demonstrated as separate insulation measures, these will be considered as two measures, meaning that the subsidy amount can double ; For a precise assessment on this point, it is recommended to contact a specialist or the RVO Counter . Borrowing: The insulation of the facade walls can be further financed by a loan from the National Heat Fund. Marginal notes Casings extending halfway up the console, which can be temporarily removed for maintenance and then replaced, are technically feasible. However, this is always a custom solution: a detail must be chosen in consultation with the supplier (prefabricated casings) and the structural/building physics consultant, specifically considering disassembly. Want to read more about insulation? Introduction The roof The floors (undersides) of gallery walkways and balconies, including upstands Front and rear facade: wall and brackets   (this page) Front and rear facades: window frames, glazing and air gaps Ground-floor floors Loose ends Do you have any questions, ideas or would you like to share your experiences? Email us at duurzaamkleiburg1@gmail.com . Together we'll chart a path toward a future-proof Kleiburg.

  • Research results: energy | heat consumption: measuring is knowing

    Introduction Power: solar panels and storage Heat: hydronic balancing Heat: Heat Recovery (WTW) Heat consumption: measuring is knowing (this page) Updates:   individual monitoring of heat consumption for owners in Kleiburg Phase 1 has already been activated - including consumption data of the past years; 2026-01-21: instructions for using the ista app were emailed by our board via our VvE manager JWA (see appendices 2 and 3 at the end of this article). Why we do this? Heating behavior changes strongly when people receive direct feedback. If someone sees their hot water usage rising during a shower, they tend to turn off the tap earlier. If a spike in heating usage appears, they may lower the thermostat. This is called behavioral feedback: making visible what normally remains invisible. For most Kleiburg Phase 1 residents, the largest part of the energy bill comes from district heating. That is why insight into this consumption is more important than insight into electricity use. A simple monitoring system from the company ista  allows owners and residents of Kleiburg Phase 1 to see weekly how much heat and hot water they use. This way, saving is not a guess, but a habit. This system has been set up and arranged at VvE level. The psychology behind energy behavior Residents respond strongly to direct feedback. Anyone who notices an increase in hot water consumption while showering turns off the tap sooner. Anyone who sees a spike in heating consumption lowers the thermostat. This is called behavioral feedback: making visible what normally remains invisible. Research from Milieu Centraal   shows that insight into consumption leads to average energy savings of 5 % to 15 %  — without new installations or renovations. When you know what something costs, you naturally look for where you can save. Insight makes energy personal. The current situation in Kleiburg phase 1 Residents in Kleiburg Phase 1 are connected to district heating. Each month we pay a fixed advance, and at the end of the year we receive a settlement that shows who overpaid or owes money. That yearly moment is too late to influence behavior. Furthermore, consumption varies hugely between homes: some use about 5 GJ per year, others as much as 50 GJ . Such differences are almost always due to behavior — like how often heating is turned on, how long showers last, or how long hot taps are left running. Residents currently have no intermediate insight. As a result, they miss the chance to adjust in time. And this is exactly where the most savings can be made: district heating makes up the largest part of the energy costs for all residents of Kleiburg. Those who gain control here can save the most. The solution: monitoring The company ista  offers a simple and affordable service that lets Kleiburg residents track their heat and water consumption through a web portal and an app. The data is updated weekly. Every resident can see: their current individual consumption and consumption from previous years (up to three years); a comparison with the average consumption in the building. Via the app and the portal mijn.ista.nl, residents have 24/7 access to their consumption data. The portal shows: monthly consumption in clear graphs; comparison with previous years and with the building average ; insight into savings opportunities in case of abnormal consumption. Privacy is fully arranged in accordance with GDPR: no one sees others’ data, only their own consumption compared to the building average. The system works best when all homes participate, because comparison is the strength of the system. Residents are free to use or not use the app — it is a tool, not an obligation. Costs The cost is € 5.09 per home per year  (price level 2024), which is about € 560 for the entire Phase 1 , excluding VAT. What it yields For residents: fewer surprises on the annual settlement; more control over heating costs; increased awareness and the ability to adjust behavior immediately. For the VvE: smaller differences in consumption and additional payments; better predictability of total heating costs; a transparent system that aligns with the sustainability goals of Kleiburg phase 1. In short: insight is the cheapest form of sustainability. Appendix 1 (brochure with general information) Title: "Monitoring, Insight into consumption ensures energy savings!" Appendices 2 and 3 (launch communication) Creating your account (English version) Please keep in mind when creating your account: The meter reading is shown on the display; However de serial number is from the module (small white box from ISTA) connected to the meter, not from the meter itself. Launch comm (Dutch only) Want to read more about Energy? Introduction Power: solar panels and storage Heat: hydronic balancing Heat: Heat Recovery (WTW) Heat consumption: measuring is knowing (this page) Do you have any questions, ideas or would you like to share your experiences? Email us at duurzaamkleiburg1@gmail.com . Together we'll chart a path toward a future-proof Kleiburg.

  • Seal seams and cracks for improved insulation

    Everyone deserves a comfortable home. Unfortunately, some houses suffer from drafts due to cracks and crevices. This creates a less pleasant living environment with poor insulation and little fresh air. The solution to this problem is to seal all the cracks and crevices in your home. How sealing seams and cracks can improve insulation Seams are often found between fixed parts of a house, while gaps are found between moving parts. Is this the case in your home? Then seal all seams and cracks with caulk or draft excluders. You'll notice almost immediately that less cold air enters the house. This has a positive impact on the environment and your wallet. This significantly reduces your home's energy consumption because you won't need to turn up the heating as much. Identify the most common areas for cracks and crevices in your home A cold, windy day is the perfect opportunity to find cracks and crevices in your home. You might already feel the draft in the strong wind, but a piece of paper or a candle is also practical. Choosing materials for effectively sealing seams and cracks Want to get started sealing seams and cracks in your home yourself? With the right materials, you'll achieve the best results. You'll find all the possible locations for seams and cracks, along with the best materials, in this handy overview: Where are the seams and cracks? Which insulation material is most suitable? Exterior door Draft brush Mailbox Letterbox brush Seams between the outer wall, floor and/or frames Waterproof silicone sealant or PU compression bandage Gaps at doors, windows and/or the crawl space hatch Flexible draft strip, preferably self-adhesive. Another option is aluminum or hard plastic draft strip. Step-by-step guide: sealing seams and cracks By now, you know where seams and cracks are often found in a home. Our overview also helps you identify the most suitable materials. But how do you seal seams and cracks most effectively? The answer is simple: use this step-by-step plan. Step 1: Map out all the seams and cracks in your home. Step 2: Seal gaps around moving parts, such as windows and doors, with self-adhesive draft excluder tape. Choose a flexible material. Step 3: Cut the draught excluder to size and then place it in the window or door frame. Do you have any questions, ideas or would you like to share your experiences around DYI topics? Email us at duurzaamkleiburg1@gmail.com  . Together we'll chart a path toward a future-proof Kleiburg; Do-it-yourself  is about improvements in your own apartment, not about VvE measures. Sharing your experiences can really help others — and is very welcome!

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