If you’re planning to renovate your HDB flat, you're about to embark on an exciting but sometimes challenging journey. Whether it's transforming your space with a new design or making structural changes, understanding key renovation terminologies can make the process smoother. Knowing these terms will help you communicate effectively with your contractor and interior designer, making sure you get the results you desire.

Let’s explore the essential HDB renovation terms and get you familiar with the process.

HDB Renovation Terminologies in Singapore

1. HDB Renovation

The term "HDB renovation" refers to the modification or improvement of your HDB flat in Singapore. This can involve a wide range of activities, from minor cosmetic changes such as painting walls and upgrading fixtures to major projects that might include restructuring your home, such as combining rooms or reconfiguring the floor plan.

It’s crucial to adhere to the Housing & Development Board (HDB) regulations, which govern renovation works in Singapore to ensure safety and consistency.

2. Interior Designer

An interior designer is the creative expert who helps to bring your vision to life. When it comes to HDB renovations, an interior designer not only designs the aesthetics of your flat but also considers practical aspects like spatial arrangement, lighting, and furniture placement. Their expertise ensures your HDB flat not only looks good but is functional and tailored to your lifestyle.

In Singapore, many homeowners work with interior design firms to achieve a seamless and stylish living space that meets their needs and budget.

3. Renovation Contractor

While the interior designer focuses on the creative aspect, the renovation contractor handles the technical work. A renovation contractor is responsible for executing the renovation plans. This can include tasks like demolishing walls, installing flooring, electrical wiring, plumbing, and other essential construction tasks.

For HDB flats, hiring a contractor who is experienced in navigating HDB guidelines and building requirements is essential to avoid delays or non-compliance issues.

4. Sub-contractor

A sub-contractor specializes in specific trades, such as carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work. They work under the main renovation contractor and are responsible for completing particular tasks that require a specific set of skills.

In an HDB renovation, sub-contractors are often brought in for specialized work, such as installing cabinetry or fitting electrical wiring, ensuring that each aspect of the renovation is handled by experts.

5. Hacking

Wall hacking involves demolishing or altering existing walls in your HDB flat to create a new layout. This is commonly done to open up spaces, such as combining the kitchen with the living room for an open-plan concept.

It’s important to note that hacking structural walls in HDB flats requires approval from HDB. Only non-load-bearing walls can be modified to ensure the integrity of the building is maintained.

6. Masonry

Masonry refers to the work involving stone, brick, or concrete for constructing walls, partitions, and other structural elements in your home. In an HDB renovation, masonry work can include building new walls, installing tiled surfaces, or repairing concrete surfaces.

This type of work is crucial for creating solid and durable foundations for your renovation.

7. Carpentry

Carpentry involves building custom furniture, cabinetry, and other wooden structures. In HDB renovations, carpentry is commonly used for creating built-in furniture like wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, and storage solutions.

Quality carpentry work can significantly improve the aesthetics and functionality of your flat by providing tailored solutions for storage and decor.

8. Optional Component Scheme (OCS)

The Optional Component Scheme (OCS) allows HDB homeowners to choose certain optional features and finishes when purchasing a new flat. These features may include flooring, sanitary fittings, and kitchen cabinetry.

By opting for these components through the OCS, homeowners can move into a flat that already has basic finishes, saving time and effort in the initial renovation phase.

9. Defects Liability Period (DLP)

The Defects Liability Period (DLP) is a warranty period following the completion of your renovation. During this time, the contractor is responsible for addressing any defects or issues that arise as a result of the renovation work.

Typically, this period lasts between six months to a year. It’s crucial to thoroughly inspect your home once the renovation is completed and report any issues to the contractor for prompt rectification.

10. ABS Trimming

ABS trimming is used in carpentry to finish the edges of laminated surfaces, like kitchen countertops or wardrobes. It involves applying a durable thermoplastic material called Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) to the edges to protect them from wear and tear.

This technique not only enhances the durability of your furniture but also adds a sleek, polished look to your interiors.

11. Skirting

Skirting refers to the boards installed at the base of interior walls to cover the gap between the wall and the floor. Skirting serves both functional and decorative purposes. It helps protect walls from damage and adds a finished look to the room.

In HDB flats, skirting is often used in living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways to create a clean transition between the floor and the walls.

12. Cornices

Cornices are decorative mouldings installed where the walls meet the ceiling. While cornices are primarily decorative, they also hide imperfections at the junctions of walls and ceilings, giving your home a polished, cohesive look.

Many homeowners choose cornices to add a touch of elegance to their HDB interiors, particularly in living and dining areas.

13. Single/Double-Leaf Doors

A single-leaf door consists of one panel, while a double-leaf door has two panels that open independently. Single-leaf doors are the standard type used in bedrooms and bathrooms, while double-leaf doors are more common for larger entryways, such as the main entrance or between living and dining areas.

Choosing between single or double-leaf doors depends on the space available and the design preference for your HDB renovation.

14. Casement Windows

Casement windows are hinged on one side and open outward like a door. In HDB flats, these windows are often preferred for their ability to maximize ventilation and natural light, creating a bright and airy living environment.

Casement windows can be customized to match the design of your home, making them both a functional and aesthetic choice.

15. Fluted Surface

A fluted surface consists of vertical grooves or ridges, often used in decorative panels, columns, or wall features. It adds texture and dimension to your interiors, creating a sophisticated visual appeal.

In modern HDB renovations, fluted surfaces are becoming popular for creating accent walls or adding architectural interest to otherwise flat surfaces.

Renovation vs. Restoration: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to improving your HDB flat, it’s important to understand the difference between renovation and restoration.

Renovation refers to making changes or improvements to a space to update its appearance and functionality. This might include installing new fixtures, changing the layout, upgrading the flooring, or updating electrical systems. Renovation allows you to customize your flat according to your style and needs.

Restoration, on the other hand, focuses on preserving the original features of a space, such as vintage fixtures or architectural details. This approach is common for older or heritage homes where the goal is to maintain the home’s historical charm while ensuring it’s livable.

FAQs about HDB Renovation

1. Do I need a permit to hack walls in my HDB flat?

Yes, HDB approval is required for any hacking of walls. Only non-load-bearing walls can be hacked, and the work must be carried out by HDB-licensed contractors.

2. What is the average timeline for an HDB renovation?

An HDB renovation typically takes 6 to 10 weeks, depending on the scope of work. Structural changes, extensive carpentry, and custom installations can prolong the timeline.

3. Can I renovate my HDB flat myself?

While minor cosmetic changes like painting are allowed, major renovation works, such as hacking and plumbing, must be carried out by licensed contractors.

4. What is the Defects Liability Period in HDB renovation?

The Defects Liability Period (DLP) is usually between six months to one year, during which the contractor is responsible for fixing any defects resulting from the renovation.

5. What is ABS trimming in carpentry?

ABS trimming is the process of applying a durable plastic material to the edges of laminated surfaces to protect them from wear and tear and give a polished finish.

Conclusion

Understanding these key renovation terms will not only help you communicate effectively with your contractors and interior designers but also empower you to make informed decisions throughout your HDB renovation journey. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the complexities of transforming your home.

At Prestige Affairs Furniture, we offer a wide range of quality furniture that complements any HDB renovation project. Visit our showroom or explore our online catalogue to find the perfect pieces to elevate your newly renovated space.