Protecting homes against extreme weather

The flood disaster in Rhineland-Palatinate and North Rhine-Westphalia last year has not been forgotten. To date, only a small proportion of residential buildings throughout Germany are adapted to extreme weather events such as heat and heavy rain. The consequences of climate change are becoming increasingly noticeable. The Federal Institute for Research on Building, Urban Affairs and Spatial Development (BBSR) has therefore published a new brochure aimed at those interested in building, property owners and those with an interest in the subject.

"There are already many smart approaches to climate-adapted housing," says the head of the Housing and Construction Department at BBSR, Robert Kaltenbrunner. "The challenges lie in the implementation. This includes raising awareness among property owners. Many misjudge the dangers posed by extreme weather. Planners and experts are also challenged: In addition to climate protection, they should also consider adaptation to climate change in building planning to a much greater extent than in the past.

The focus is on technical and nature-based solutions for better protection against extreme weather. Even small adjustments and measures achieve a good effect. For example, flexible sun protection elements in front of windows help against heat in living spaces. Proper ventilation in summer is also useful. Closing windows during the day and ventilating at night provides cooling. Light-coloured façade surfaces and exterior walls also ensure that the heat stays outside due to their thermal properties. Green buildings also fulfil an important function: green roofs, planted façades and trees and shrubs on the property provide shade and cool the surroundings through evaporation. During heavy rainfall, they store water and release it with a time delay. The brochure also shows which measures protect against flooding, hail and storms.

The BBSR brochure entitled "Climate-adapted buildings and properties" was produced in a project at the University of Stuttgart. It is available free of charge by e-mail wb6@bbr.bund.de and on the BBSR website at www.bbsr.bund.de. 

(Photo: © Markus Distelrath, Pixabay)