How does the renovation process work?
Understanding the renovation process can help keep track of the progress and determine the right times to communicate with the contractor. DECOLAND believes that the renovation process can generally be divided into seven stages: demolition, plumbing and electrical work, masonry, preliminary carpentry, painting, final carpentry, and finishing touches. However, there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, so timely communication with the renovation company is essential to stay on track. Both the homeowner and the contractor must cooperate throughout the renovation. For instance, the contractor should notify the homeowner about when to order tiles or finalize furniture designs. A clear timetable ensures that the entire project runs smoothly.
Demolition (5 - 7 days)
The process involves removing unwanted old renovations such as tiles, flooring, and built-in furniture. Homeowners should discuss in advance with the contractor about items they wish to preserve and confirm the divisions between units to avoid any demolition mistakes. Additionally, homeowners are reminded to check that their purchased insurance is activated and to notify the management and related authorities about the construction in advance.
Plumbing and Electrical Work (10 - 14 days)
After demolition, new plumbing and electrical infrastructures, including wiring, telephone lines, broadband lines, gas pipes, and hot and cold water pipes, are installed. It's common for contractors to require homeowners to be present to confirm the placement of electrical outlets and water points. DECOLAND also points out that furniture placement and design might affect this, so homeowners should be attentive. If a split-type air conditioner will be installed, its piping should also be set up at this time. If the installation is handled by an air conditioning supplier, the contractor should be notified in advance.
Masonry (14 - 21 days)
Masons will level the floor, build walls, apply plaster, create waterproof layers, and lay tiles. To avoid delays, homeowners should order tiles and bathtubs in advance and allocate time for delivery. The gap between tiles and the method of tile laying significantly affects the overall aesthetics. DECOLAND reminds everyone to clarify tile requirements with the contractor beforehand and inquire about any additional fees. After the masonry work, the contractor should clean up the debris and seal areas prone to scratches before the carpentry team comes in.
Preliminary Carpentry (10 - 14 days)
At this stage include creating light troughs, false ceilings, and feature walls. After plastering or tile laying, unit dimensions might change slightly. Hence, measurements for custom-made furniture are taken ("re-measuring"). If built-in appliances like fridges, ovens, or dishwashers will be installed, their dimensions should be confirmed and communicated to the contractor. Often, carpentry and painting overlap as some carpentry tasks require painters to fill gaps, known as "sealing."
Painting (10 - 14 days)
A full wall and ceiling painting job involves scraping, plastering, and painting. Homeowners should choose their wall colors in advance. Some paints, especially dark latex paints and children's paints, may show brush marks or have uneven tones. Scraping off old paint and loose plaster is part of the job. DECOLAND advises that if the scraping goes down to the concrete layer without prior notice, there might be additional charges. However, scraping down to concrete is generally not needed.
Final Carpentry (10 - 14 days)
Once painting is nearly done, carpenters start installing custom-made furniture, wooden doors, and frames. Most custom furniture, like built-in cabinets, kitchen cabinets, and platform beds, are manufactured off-site and then installed in the unit. Most furniture installations happen during this time.
Finishing Touches
Lighter tasks, such as installing light fixtures, switches, sanitary ware, toilets, and faucets, are done in this final stage. After the installation, a thorough cleaning of the house takes place, which involves basic cleaning to remove renovation debris and dust, sealing gaps, and erasing pencil marks. For a deep cleaning or formaldehyde removal, homeowners might need to hire a specialized cleaning company. Customers who successfully match through DECOLAND will receive a formaldehyde removal service, ensuring a smooth move-in.
