Ehmann, Jannik

Diploma Thesis:
2015

Topic:
Effects of sustainable building on the construction costs of new building projects

Editor:
Jannik Ehmann

University Professor Responsible:
Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Dipl.-Wirt.-Ing. Jens Otto

Supervisor:
University Supervisor:    Dipl.-Ing. Charlotte Dorn

Editing Period:
03.02.2025 until 07.07.2025

Abstract:
The aim of this thesis is to analyse the effects of sustainable construction on the construction costs of new building projects. The focus was on a detailed cost comparison between conventional and sustainable building materials. The component groups of floor slabs, external walls and internal walls were analysed as examples. 
The results show that sustainable building materials can lead to higher construction costs in some areas, particularly in the case of innovative timber or clay building products and certain insulating materials. At the same time, however, there are also sustainable alternatives that are comparable or even cheaper than conventional solutions. Economically and ecologically favourable options were identified, particularly in the case of insulating materials or hybrid construction methods.
In addition, the cost structure of planning and certification of sustainable construction projects was analysed. It became clear that both the planning effort and the certification are associated with additional costs. Depending on the system and scope of the project, these costs can amount to several thousand euros. 
Overall, the work shows that sustainable construction is not necessarily associated with significantly higher costs. Rather, economic efficiency depends heavily on the choice of materials, the construction method and early, integrated planning. In the long term, it can be assumed that sustainable building materials will continue to gain in economic importance due to market developments, legal framework conditions and technological advances.