People want to remove a partition wall when they want to restructure the use of a room. A partition wall divides spaces in a home or office. People insert it to make different individual sections or spaces. However, when they do not need it, they remove it to create a bigger space. This task takes planning and care.Â
If you do not do it in the right way, it can cause damage. In Singapore, space is a big concern, and the use of partition walls is a common practice. Some are easy to remove, while others need special tools. This guide helps you remove a partition wall safely.
How to Remove a Partition Wall in Singapore?
In Singapore, space is a big concern, and the houses and apartments are compact in size. Therefore, installing and removing a partition wall in Singapore is a common practice. However, the removal of partition walls requires some tools and skills. Therefore, people in Singapore should be aware of the process to change a partition wall to ease their lives.Â
PS Home Maintenance Singapore explains a step-by-step process to remove a non-load bearing wall in Singapore. If you feel unsure about the process, they also offer professional partition wall installation, false ceiling installation, and flooring installation and maintenance services in Singapore. Let’s go through their guide for DIY enthusiasts.Â
Step-by-Step Process to Remove a Partition Wall in Singapore
1. Check If the Wall Is Load-Bearing
Some walls support the weight of the building. If you remove these load-bearing walls, it can weaken the structure. A partition wall usually does not support weight. But it is good to check before starting.Â
You can ask a contractor to help you in this regard. If the wall is load-bearing, do not remove it alone. This is the job of a professional and must not be taken up yourself. If your wall is not load-bearing, you can continue with the next steps.
2. Get the Right Tools
The right tools make the job easy. Therefore, keep the following tools at hand before starting the removal process:
- A hammer
- A chisel
- A crowbar
- A saw
- Safety gear like gloves and goggles
3. Turn Off Power and Water
Some partition walls have wires and pipes inside. In this case, there is a danger involved if you cut them. Therefore, it is better to turn off the water and power before you remove the wall.
Find the switches and valves that control the area. If you see wires and pipes inside the wall, call an expert. They will remove or move them safely. This step is essential to ensure the safe removal of the partition walls.Â
4. Remove Fixtures and Coverings
Generally, the partition walls remain in service when you remove them. Therefore, check for items attached to the wall. There can be shelves, switches, and lights connected to them. Remove them first to clear the working site for you.Â
If there is wallpaper or paint, peeling it off helps. This makes the next steps easier. Moreover, use a screwdriver to remove screws from shelves and switches. Disconnect the wall from everything for smooth operation.Â
5. Start Removing the Wall
Begin at one end of the wall. Use a hammer to break a small part. This lets you see what is inside. If there are no pipes or wires, continue breaking. Use the crowbar to pull out wooden or metal frames.
If the wall is made of plaster, break it into small sections to avoid creating a mess. Avoid hitting too hard to prevent damage to nearby walls.
6. Clean Up the Debris
After removing the wall, there will be debris. Collect it in bags and remove sharp pieces. Check the floor and clean dust and any other thing around. It is recommended to treat the demolished material appropriately.
Some materials cannot go in regular trash bins. In Singapore, there are rules for disposing of construction waste. Contact the local waste service for proper disposal.
7. Repair the Floor and Ceiling
When a wall is removed, there will be gaps in the floor and ceiling. Fill these imperfections with cement and plaster. Sand the surface to make it smooth. If the floor has tiles, replace the missing ones. If the ceiling has marks, paint over them to make them unnoticeable. This makes the space look clean when you remove a partition wall.
8. Final Touches
Once the wall is gone, arrange furniture and decor. If the space looks empty, add a rug or shelf to adjust the partition wall’s absence temporarily. Check the lighting to see if it needs changes. When you remove the partition wall, the space becomes more open. A bigger space can make the room feel open and fresh. You are all set to enjoy the new layout.
Conclusion
Homeowners in Singapore install and remove partition walls as per their requirements. Removing a partition wall creates more space. But it needs care and planning. Check if the wall is load-bearing. Use the right tools.
Turn off the power and water before starting. Remove the wall safely and clean up afterward. In Singapore, following the right steps as mentioned above, ensures a smooth process.