Here's a testimonial from Jean-Pierre CAPELLI, self-builder of a passive collective building in Mandeure in the Doubs département of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region.
The building has a total living area of 435 m² on two levels and 4 apartments for rental.
How did you hear about EUROMAC2?
In 2011, I went to the Batimat trade show in Paris to find out about the different building materials available. I already had this project in mind, but I wanted to be well informed before starting construction.
Why choose EUROMAC2?
Basically, I knew nothing about this construction method. I wanted to build a small building that would be pleasant to live in and consume very little energy. Initially, I thought I'd build with 20 cm breeze blocks and 20 cm insulation. But I asked a EUROMAC2 consultant for a quote.
When I compared the two, I didn't hesitate for a second - I opted for EUROMAC2. For a price barely more expensive than traditional construction if you add the cost of insulation, the EUROMAC2 system lets you do it all in one go.
How was your relationship with your EUROMAC2 advisor?
He was always very pleasant and helpful. Another important thing for me was his availability. Today, I call him less often now that the building is finished, but I've always been able to get in touch with him easily and quickly if I need to.
Did you build the entire project yourself?
Given the size of the building, I had to go through an architect and a project manager. But the assembly was done by a mason and myself. I was on site every day and we worked together on this project. On the other hand, I did most of the finishing work myself.
Did you take the free factory training course?
Yes, absolutely. I think it's a great way to help people like me, who want to embark on a form of self-build passive housing.
It allows us to learn the basics.
Did you call on assistance during the works?
No, I didn't call for assistance. With hindsight, I could have, it would have helped me a lot I think. I'd been delivered in winter, so I'd pre-assembled certain things to go faster once on site.
How did the BBC certification by Bureau Veritas go?
Everything went smoothly with the EUROMAC 2 product. However, it was more complicated for other products such as windows or gas. That's when I realized that EUROMAC 2 was really a well thought-out and accomplished product.
How easy was it to rent the various apartments?
Yes, absolutely! I knew two of the tenants who wanted to rent as soon as the work began. They were already convinced by this type of process and knew they would be moving into a comfortable passive house.
Speaking of comfort, have you had any feedback from tenants?
Of course they are! They're all very happy to be living in a passive-energy building. They often tell me how comfortable it is. But also about how low their bills are.
Each 80 m² apartment consumes less than €180 for 6 months of heating and hot water production, and this for the winter period.
What would you say to people looking to build a passive house?
They can contact me without any problem if they want information or feedback on the construction of a passive building.
Focus on the project
- In-ground construction
- Walls made of 45 cm thick EUROMAC 2 blocks
- Gas-fired heating, supplemented by solar panels
- Triple-glazed PVC windows
- Double-flow CMV
- Interior finish: BA13
- Exterior finish: thick double-coat hydraulic plaster
- This two-person project took 9 months to complete (between February and October 2013).
