• Install modern conveniences

  *Replacing existing wall linings makes it much easier to bring your home into the 21st century,* with the comfort and convenience of...

• Solve Old Home Problems

  *Renovating is the best time to address the inherent problems of an older home. * The information below will help you identify...

• What is behind paint & wallpaper

  *Ever wondered what's is behind the paint and wallpaper? How a wall is constructed? * Here is a brief summary of the what...

Villas 1880-1915

While they are one of the most elegant building styles from our past, villas also tend to be draughty and cold.

They lack sufficient powerpoints and are often in desperate need of rewiring and replumbing. Linings were timber boards (sarking) placed horizontally over the timber framing studs completely covering them. This boarding was then covered in scrim (a jute fabric) and paper. These wall linings should be replaced. This will make the installation of insulation possible and will make rewiring and replumbing more cost effective.

Skirtings, scotia and architraves, the mouldings at floor level, around ceilings and around door and window frames are often wide and ornate. They should be left in place or removed with care and stored for re-use.

Ceilings are likely to be timber boards fixed to the framing. Trims are generally of simpler design, although some fibrous plaster ceilings may have ornate trims (fibrous plaster is solid plaster with strands of fibre reinforcing). Retain existing trims unless the ceiling is unsound and needs replacing.