Articles

Living Area Makeover

From Australian Handyman Magazine

Knocking out walls to create an open living area has always been a renovation dream for us. The upstairs, consisting of a bedroom, kitchen and dining table, was a squishy area that barely had space for a TV, let alone furniture. It was time to bring out the sledge hammer. Smashing down the walls was fun, but once the mess was made, fixing it up was a big job.

Download Living Area Makeover project PDF

STEP 1

Remove the lino
Check for timber floorboards under the floor covering. Old lino can be pulled up by hand. Masonite underlay may require a hammer and chisel to help free it from the staples.
TIP: Keep looking. There were two layers of lino and masonite on top of the original floor in this house.

STEP 2

Pull out the staples
Go over the entire floor methodically and prise out staples or nails before sanding. Use pincers and pliers, being careful not to dent the timber.
TIP: Slide a piece of timber over the surface to locate all the nails and staples.

STEP 3

Plan the supports
Call an engineer or builder to check demolition plans and supporting walls. They should also stipulate necessary dimensions for any new beams required.
TIP: Before demolition begins, call an electrician or plumber to disconnect any utilities in the wall.

STEP 4

Remove the wall
Erect support props if required. Remove plasterboard, then remove the wall studs and trimmers using a sledgehammer. You’ll need professional help to fit any new beams, plus extra muscle for lifting.

STEP 5

Check the utilities
Check that the wiring and plumbing in the walls and ceilings meets requirements. New cables for lights or power points, or pipes for new plumbing should be installed before the plasterboard is fixed in place.

STEP 6

Sheet the walls
Trim gaps in the remaining wall and ceiling plasterboard so the sheets finish in the centre of studs or ceiling joists. Cut new plasterboard to fill the gaps. Apply stud adhesive and nail into place with 30mm galvanised clouts.