Disadvantages of timber frame construction

I hope the topic will not be discussed further, because then we face an endless thread about bungalow variants.

So, my wife’s grandfather is over 80, lives on the 2nd floor in his own house, and still does all the gardening alone. It could turn out differently, but I don’t plan on being unable to climb stairs at 70 and having to move into a nursing home. On the contrary, a serious financial plan usually assumes a life expectancy of 90-100 years so that you don’t run out of money. If I plan conservatively from 30 to 80, then the house should last 50 years. I would prefer a design life of 70 years. It’s clear that in the meantime you’ll have to redo plaster several times or renovate the bathroom, floors, wall paint, etc. Completely stripping back to the shell and then starting again with electrical and sanitary installations would be quite a project.

You and I and we are a completely different generation from your wife’s grandpa. I don’t think you can compare our desire for comfort and lifestyle with a current 80-year-old. Grandpa certainly didn’t have the wish and persistence 50 years ago and for his whole remaining life to have a kitchen, living, and dining area arranged at an angle. Besides, he certainly had more physical activity without home equipment in a year than you have had in your whole young life combined. Your office body will eventually tell you the direction, but not to be carried feet first out of your house at 80. I wish that for everyone if it were so, but one should look at it all a bit more soberly.... As you so nicely say.

I don't know exactly what you're getting at, but planning for a nursing home at 75 seems somewhat reckless to me. And by the way, that grandpa also had a desk job.

Is now also off-topic - we have 2 direct neighbors who are retired and have just built (each a bungalow). I think it's good and would certainly do the same - health and income permitting.

There are enough timber frame houses that have been standing for over 50 years. And I think none will simply collapse on their own after 50 years.