What are the differences between cosmetic repairs and major repairs?
Almost every person is faced with such work. Most often, the process itself involves wallpapering, repairing walls and ceilings. But in general, the concept of repair implies carrying out a whole complex of actions. The classification of these activities involves taking into account goals and objectives. That is why cosmetic and major repairs differ in the following categories:
- degree of complexity;
- number of processes;
- material and financial costs.
The cosmetic format is mainly aimed at decorating the coating. During major repairs, work is performed with the main layers of surfaces, often including the replacement of communications. At the same time, each of these types may include some processes of other repairs. For example, installation of electrical wiring or replacement of plumbing can be carried out as part of cosmetic repairs. What types of work are inherent in each individual format - this is discussed further.
What is cosmetic repairs: main features
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This type of work is a good way to quickly update without changing the structures, to bring a touch of freshness and hide minor flaws. In general, cosmetic repairs do not involve radical changes and large-scale processes. On average, it is carried out approximately once every 5-7 years. The main processes here are the following:
- puttying surfaces, masking various defects;
- painting walls, ceilings, floor finishing;
- installation of new switches and lamps;
- updating without dismantling old windows and doors;
- installation of simple plasterboard structures.
Most often, the need for cosmetic repairs arises after flooding the apartment, the residence of tenants, if there are small children or pets in the house. Its advantages are the absence of complex work, the ability to perform most of the stages of the repair with your own hands. This type of repair involves minimal costs, and the duration of the process is from several days to one or two months. During its implementation, apartment residents may not move to another house, but gradually move from one room to another.
Among the disadvantages of cosmetic repairs, it is worth noting the inability to improve the layout of the apartment, since dismantling work is not carried out in this case. Sometimes certain difficulties may arise when additional work is necessary.
What is a major overhaul: the main stages
This type of repair involves more serious processes. This may include replacing communications, leveling surfaces, and using special materials. Quite often, the major format includes:
- leveling walls and ceilings;
- installing new heating and electrical systems;
- restoring building structures;
- flooring: replacing screed.
The need for major repairs arises when engineering systems in old buildings are worn out. This is indicated by the presence of deep cracks on surfaces, peeling plaster, and destruction of pipe systems. Often, this service is ordered by apartment owners in new buildings where rough finishing work has not yet been carried out. The advantages of major repairs are the following:
- the ability to get a comfortable apartment that meets your needs;
- increasing the energy efficiency of the room;
- creating a multifunctional ergonomic space;
- no need to make complex repairs in the future - for many years it will be enough just to update the interior.
The main disadvantage of this type of work is often called significant time and money costs and a certain technical complexity. Often, complex engineering work is the reason why such a service is ordered from experienced craftsmen. Sometimes it may even be necessary to use heavy equipment.
So what is better to choose - dismantling walls vs wallpapering? Knowing the key advantages and disadvantages, you can easily decide on the type of work. The choice will depend on your own requests, capabilities, and the condition of the home. In any case, the best option for solving the problem will be to contact specialists who will perform any type of repair.
