Stage 1: Initial assessment and planning
The first stage in the renovation of an old building is the initial assessment. This stage includes a detailed inspection of the building to identify the work required and assess the general condition of the structure.
- Structural inspection : Check the foundations, load-bearing walls, roof and floors. Structural problems may require major, costly work.
- Assessment of Facilities : Electrical, plumbing and heating installations must be inspected to determine whether they comply with current standards or need updating.
- Materials Analysis : The materials used in the construction of an old building may differ from those used today. It is important to be aware of their condition and to decide whether they should be retained or replaced.
We can intervene at this first stage by carrying out a survey using laser scanner. This makes it possible to create architectural plans or a 3D model/BIM. What's more, our technology Matterport offers a virtual tour of the site, facilitating the work of the various parties involved.
Step 2: Estimating the work involved in renovating a house
After the initial assessment, an accurate estimate of the renovation costs is essential. This estimate should include :
- Cost of materials : Quality materials are essential for sustainable renovation.
- Labour costs : Skilled labour is needed to carry out the work properly.
- Unforeseen expenditure : Plan a budget for unforeseen expenses.
Stage 3: Obtaining authorisations and subsidies
Renovating an old house: What subsidies are available?
Renovating a house gives you the chance to benefit from a range of grants and financial assistance. It's important to find out about the programmes available in your region:
- Government grants : Several government programmes offer subsidies for the renovation of older buildings, particularly for work to improve energy efficiency. For example, the canton of Vaud has a subsidy programme called " Grants Buildings programme" . At Swiss national level, there are " The Buildings Programme" or " Financial aid for objects" . This aid may be cantonal and specific to each canton. For the French-speaking cantons, this includes Vaud, Geneva, Fribourg, Neuchâtel and Jura. It may also be federal or mixed.
- Tax credits Some renovation work may entitle you to tax credits or advantageous mortgages. It is advisable to consult a tax and/or banking expert to find out more.
It's important to find out all you need to know before starting the work, so that you can obtain the necessary grants and subsidies. These grants and subsidies must be applied for and approved before the renovation work begins. The conditions for obtaining these grants may vary, so it is essential to check the eligibility criteria and follow the specific procedures for each scheme.
Stage 4: Detailed design and planning in building renovation
Surveying the building, drawing up architectural plans or 3D/BIM models
Detailed design and planning are crucial to the success of your renovation project. Our company uses advanced technologies to create 3D models and BIM models.
- 3D Laser Scanner Survey: This technology captures precise data about the existing building. The resulting point cloud provides a faithful representation of the building, essential for accurate planning.
- 3D model and BIM model: From the point cloud, we create 3D models and BIM models that make it easier to visualise the work to be carried out and to plan each stage precisely.
Step 5: Carrying out the home renovation work
Renovation work on an old house
Renovation work can begin once the detailed planning has been completed and the necessary permits have been obtained. Here are the main works to be considered:
- Demolition and clearance Renovation: Certain elements have to be removed or demolished to allow renovation to take place. This may include non-load-bearing walls, floor coverings or obsolete installations.
- Structural Repair Structural repairs should be given priority. This may involve reinforcing foundations, repairing load-bearing walls or replacing damaged beams.
- Modernisation of Facilities Updating electrical, plumbing and heating systems is essential for the safety and comfort of the building.
- Insulation and energy efficiency : Insulating walls, attics and floors, and installing double-glazed windows, all help to improve a building's energy efficiency.
- Finishing work Finishing work includes laying flooring, painting, installing modern kitchens and bathrooms, and interior decorating.
- Façade renovation The façade is one of the most visible features of an old building. Renovating it can have a significant impact on the appearance and value of the property:
- Cleaning and Repair Cleaning the façade removes accumulated dirt and deposits. Repairs can include repointing bricks or stones, repairing cracks and replacing damaged elements.
- External insulation : External insulation can improve energy efficiency without affecting the interior of the building.
- Paint and Treatment : Painting or treating the façade helps to protect the materials and improve the appearance of the building.
Step 6: Carrying out the home renovation work
Renovation work Old building
Renovation work can begin once the detailed planning has been completed and the necessary permits have been obtained. Here are the main works to be considered:
- Demolition and clearance Renovation: Certain elements have to be removed or demolished to allow renovation to take place. This may include non-load-bearing walls, floor coverings or obsolete installations.
- Structural Repair Structural repairs should be given priority. This may involve reinforcing foundations, repairing load-bearing walls or replacing damaged beams.
- Modernisation of Facilities Updating electrical, plumbing and heating systems is essential for the safety and comfort of the building.
- Insulation and energy efficiency : Insulating walls, attics and floors, and installing double-glazed windows, all help to improve a building's energy efficiency.
- Finishing work Finishing work includes laying flooring, painting, installing modern kitchens and bathrooms, and interior decorating.
- Façade renovation The façade is one of the most visible features of an old building. Renovating it can have a significant impact on the appearance and value of the property:
- Cleaning and Repair Cleaning the façade removes accumulated dirt and deposits. Repairs can include repointing bricks or stones, repairing cracks and replacing damaged elements.
- External insulation : External insulation can improve energy efficiency without affecting the interior of the building.
- Paint and Treatment : Painting or treating the façade helps to protect the materials and improve the appearance of the building.
Stage 7: Energy improvements and CECB PLUS energy balance
Improving the energy efficiency of an old building is not only good for the environment, it can also significantly reduce energy costs in the long term. Here are some popular solutions in Switzerland:
- Installation of Solar Panels Installing solar panels allows you to produce green electricity, reducing your dependence on non-renewable energy sources and cutting your electricity bills.
- Heat pump A heat pump is an environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional heating systems. It uses thermal energy from the air or ground to heat the building.
- Remote Heating This system allows you to benefit from heat produced by a centralised installation and distributed to several buildings, often from renewable or recovered sources.
- Wood or pellet boiler : Using a wood-fired or pellet-fired boiler is a sustainable, environmentally-friendly solution for heating, using renewable materials such as wood or compressed pellets.
Bilan Énergétique CECB PLUS
In Switzerland, the Cantonal Energy Certificate for Buildings CECB PLUS is an important tool for assessing a building's energy efficiency. It provides a detailed analysis of energy consumption and suggests specific improvement measures:
- Full Assessment CECB PLUS includes an in-depth analysis of the building's energy situation, identifying its strengths and areas for improvement.
- Precise recommendations Based on the assessment, CECB PLUS offers specific recommendations for improving energy efficiency, including insulation work, heating system upgrades and the integration of renewable energies.
- Grants and subsidies Obtaining a CECB PLUS can also open the door to various subsidies and financial aid for energy renovation work.
Conclusion
Renovating an old building is a complex project that requires rigorous planning, technical expertise and financial investment. Our company specialises in 3D laser scanner surveys, the creation of 3D and/or BIM models, and the production of 2D plans based on clouds of points extracted from the survey, and is here to support you throughout these stages of your project. By using cutting-edge technology, we can provide you with accurate and reliable data, essential for a successful renovation. Don't hesitate to contact us to find out more about our services and to get an estimate for the renovation of your old building.
