Renovation Guide 裝修指南

Everything you need to navigate a Hong Kong renovation with confidence — the terminology, the right questions to ask, how a project runs from brief to handover, and which materials we specify and why.

全面掌握香港裝修所需知識——行業術語、正確的提問方式、由簡介到交收的項目流程,以及我們指定採用的物料及原因。

Typical Process 裝修流程

A standard Primeworks residential engagement from initial brief to handover.

  1. PHASE 01 Day 1–3

    Brief 簡介

    Capture requirements: style references, key furniture, budget, timeline, and any non-negotiables. The more specific the brief, the fewer revisions later.

    收集需求:風格參考、主要家具、預算、時間表及不可妥協的條件。簡介越具體,日後修改越少。

  2. PHASE 02 Week 1

    Quotation 報價

    Line-item quotation issued with explicit scope descriptions. Tender to multiple contractors if desired. Variation orders document any scope changes after signing.

    按項目發出附有明確工程範圍的報價。如有需要可向多家承建商招標。簽約後的範圍更改以工程變更令記錄。

  3. PHASE 03 Week 2

    Site Survey 現場勘察

    Laser measurement of every surface. Building services mapped: AC ledges, DB, water risers, gas meter. Existing elements assessed for retention. As-built plan drawn up.

    全面雷射測量。記錄建築設施:冷氣機位、電箱、水喉立管、煤氣錶。評估現有元素的保留可行性。繪製現況平面圖。

  4. PHASE 04 Week 3–4

    Concept Development 概念設計

    Spatial layout, material palette, lighting strategy, and joinery concept. Presented for client sign-off before proceeding. Layout revisions at this stage are free — after sign-off they attract variation costs.

    空間佈局、物料配色、燈光策略及傢俬概念。提交客戶確認後方可推進。此階段修改免費——確認後的修改則需計費。

  5. PHASE 05 Week 5–7

    Working Drawings 施工圖

    Construction-ready documents: floor plan, reflected ceiling plan, elevations, joinery details, and M&E layout. These are the documents contractors price from and build to.

    施工文件:平面圖、天花平面圖、立面圖、傢俬詳圖及機電佈置圖。此為承建商報價及施工的依據。

  6. PHASE 06 Week 8+

    Construction 施工

    Demolition → M&E rough-in → wet works (screed, waterproofing, tiling) → ceiling and drywall → joinery delivery → painting → FF&E installation. Snagging inspection before final payment.

    清拆 → 機電粗裝 → 濕水工程(找平、防水、鋪磚)→ 天花及隔牆 → 傢俬送貨 → 油漆 → 活動傢具安裝。尾款前進行驗收。

  7. PHASE 07 Completion + 12 mo DLP

    Handover 交收

    Practical completion certificate issued. Defects liability period begins — contractor must rectify defects at no cost for 12 months. Final retention payment released at DLP end.

    發出實際竣工證書。保修期開始——承建商須在 12 個月內免費修繕缺陷。保修期結束後發放保留金餘款。

Curated Materials 推薦物料

Materials Primeworks specifies by default — and the reasoning behind each choice.

FLOORING 地板 + expand

SPC Luxury Vinyl (LVT)

石塑地板

RECOMMENDED

Installs over existing tiles — no hacking. Fully waterproof. Humidity-stable. Wear layer: 0.5mm min. for residential.

可直接鋪於現有磚面,免拆磚。完全防水,耐潮濕。住宅用耐磨層最少 0.5mm。

Pros

  • + No hacking — installs over existing tiles
  • + Fully waterproof; ideal for HK humidity
  • + Comfortable and warm underfoot
  • + Easy to replace individual planks
  • + 免拆磚,直接覆蓋現有磚面
  • + 完全防水,適合香港潮濕環境
  • + 踩感舒適,腳感溫暖
  • + 個別板材易於更換

Cons

  • Cannot be sanded or refinished
  • Lower perceived value than real hardwood
  • Heavy furniture dragging can gouge surface
  • 無法打磨翻新
  • 質感感知遜於實木
  • 拖拉重傢俬可能刮花表面

Engineered Hardwood

實木複合地板

CONDITIONAL

Acclimatise 5–7 days on site. Glue-down preferred over floating in HK's humidity. Avoid wet areas.

需在現場預先適應 5–7 天。香港潮濕環境建議膠黏而非浮鋪。避免用於濕區。

Pros

  • + Real wood surface — can be lightly sanded and refinished
  • + Warmer underfoot than stone or vinyl
  • + Strong resale and perceived value
  • + 真木面層,可輕度打磨翻新
  • + 比石材或乙烯基腳感更溫暖
  • + 高感知價值,有助提升物業吸引力

Cons

  • Must acclimatise 5–7 days; glue-down required in HK humidity
  • Avoid wet areas — moisture causes warping
  • Higher cost than SPC
  • 需現場適應 5–7 天,香港環境須膠黏施工
  • 避免濕區——潮濕導致變形翹曲
  • 成本高於石塑地板

Wood Grain Tile

木紋磚

RECOMMENDED

Porcelain tile printed with wood grain texture. Full waterproof properties of tile with the visual warmth of timber. Popular in HK bathrooms and kitchens.

仿木紋印刷瓷磚。具備瓷磚的完全防水性能,同時呈現木材的視覺溫暖感。廣泛應用於香港浴室及廚房。

Pros

  • + Fully waterproof — suitable for wet areas where real wood fails
  • + Durable and scratch-resistant surface
  • + Low maintenance; no sealing required
  • + Wood look without humidity concerns
  • + 完全防水,適用於真木無法使用的濕區
  • + 耐用耐刮的表面
  • + 易於保養,無需密封處理
  • + 木材外觀,無需擔心潮濕問題

Cons

  • Grout lines interrupt the wood pattern illusion
  • Cold and hard underfoot compared to real timber
  • Lower perceived value than engineered hardwood
  • 填縫線打斷木紋視覺效果
  • 腳感較真木冰冷堅硬
  • 感知價值低於實木複合地板
TILING 瓷磚 + expand

Standard Porcelain (300–600mm)

標準瓷磚

STANDARD

Full-body porcelain for floors and walls. Lower water absorption than ceramic — suitable for wet areas. Specify 5–8mm joints with non-shrink grout for floors.

全瓷磚,適用於地面及牆身。吸水率低於陶瓷磚,適合濕區。地面建議指定 5–8mm 縫隙配無收縮填縫劑。

Pros

  • + Full-body — chips show same colour as surface
  • + Suitable for floors and walls including wet areas
  • + Wide selection; competitive pricing at most HK suppliers
  • + 全瓷通體——崩角顏色與表面一致
  • + 適用於地面及牆身包括濕區
  • + 選擇豐富;香港各大供應商價格具競爭力

Cons

  • Pattern repeat visible in large areas without careful layout planning
  • Polished variants show footprints and watermarks in daily use
  • Less character than large-format or natural stone
  • 大面積鋪貼若不注意排布易見花紋重複
  • 拋光面日常使用下易留腳印及水印
  • 視覺個性不及大板或天然石材

Ceramic Tile

陶瓷磚

WALL USE

Fired clay with a glazed surface — softer and more porous than porcelain. Cost-effective for bathroom and kitchen walls. Not recommended for floors in high-traffic or wet areas.

上釉燒製陶土——比瓷磚較軟,孔隙率較高。適合浴室及廚房牆身,性價比高。不建議用於高人流或濕水地面。

Pros

  • + Lower cost than porcelain for equivalent coverage
  • + Lighter weight — easier to handle and cut on site
  • + Wide decorative range; many textured and handmade-look options
  • + 同等面積成本低於瓷磚
  • + 重量輕——現場搬運及切割較方便
  • + 裝飾選擇豐富;多款仿手工及立體紋理款式

Cons

  • Higher water absorption than porcelain — not suitable for floor wet areas
  • Softer glaze chips more easily at edges and corners
  • Cannot be used on floors where heavy loads or trolleys are expected
  • 吸水率高於瓷磚——不適合用於地面濕區
  • 釉面較軟,邊角較易崩裂
  • 不適用於需承受重物或手推車的地面

Large-Format Porcelain (≥600mm)

大規格瓷磚

SPECIFY CAREFULLY

Substrate must be flat to ±2mm. Mandate full-coverage adhesive and levelling clips for tiles ≥600mm.

底層須平整至 ±2mm。600mm 以上磚必須指定全覆蓋膠黏及定位夾。

Pros

  • + Fewer grout lines — cleaner, more hygienic visual
  • + Extremely durable and scratch-resistant
  • + Wide pattern range including stone and concrete looks
  • + 灰縫更少,視覺更潔淨衛生
  • + 極耐用,抗刮花
  • + 款式廣泛,包括仿石材及仿混凝土效果

Cons

  • Heavy — installation rate halves vs. standard tile
  • Substrate must be flat to ±2mm or hollow spots result
  • Costly and disruptive to replace if cracked
  • 重量大,施工速度較標準磚慢一半
  • 底層須達 ±2mm 平整度,否則易空鼓
  • 破裂後更換成本高且工程繁複

Mosaic & Feature Tile

馬賽克及特色磚

ACCENT USE

Small-format tiles (25–100mm) for feature walls, shower niches, and accent bands. Mesh-backed for easier installation. Requires a skilled tiler — joint alignment is visible at close range.

小規格磚(25–100mm),適用於特色牆、花灑壁龕及腰帶。網格背底方便施工。需熟練師傅——近距離下接縫是否整齊清晰可見。

Pros

  • + High design impact from small surface area
  • + Available in glass, natural stone, and ceramic
  • + Ideal for wet-area feature walls and shower niches
  • + 少量面積可創造高視覺衝擊效果
  • + 有玻璃、天然石及陶瓷款式
  • + 適用於濕區特色牆及花灑壁龕

Cons

  • Labour-intensive — many small joints require precision and more time
  • High grout-line density increases long-term cleaning effort
  • Pattern centring requires layout planning before any adhesive is set
  • 施工費工——大量細縫需精準對齊,耗時較長
  • 大量灰縫增加長期清潔難度
  • 圖案居中需在上膠前預先規劃排布
WALL PAINT 牆身塗料 + expand

Standard Emulsion

乳膠漆

STANDARD

Water-based acrylic emulsion — the default interior wall finish. Available in flat, eggshell, and semi-gloss. Sheen level determines washability: specify eggshell or above for kitchens, corridors, and children's rooms.

水性丙烯酸乳膠漆,住宅室內牆身的標準選擇。分啞光、蛋殼光及半光面。光澤度決定耐洗性:廚房、走廊及兒童房建議指定蛋殼光或以上。

Pros

  • + Widest colour range — most brands offer 1,000+ custom mix options
  • + Easy to touch up; multiple repaint cycles without stripping
  • + Lowest cost per sqm of all wall finish options
  • + 色彩選擇最廣——大多數品牌提供逾 1,000 種自調色
  • + 易於補色;可多次重新粉刷而毋須鏟底
  • + 所有牆身飾面選擇中每平方米成本最低

Cons

  • Flat sheen is not washable — scuffs and stains require repainting
  • Lower-grade emulsions yellow near cooking areas over time
  • No breathability benefit — does not reduce condensation on cold walls
  • 啞光面不耐洗——污漬及刮花須重新粉刷
  • 較低級乳膠漆長期近烹飪區域易泛黃
  • 無透氣性優勢——無助減少冷牆結露

Anti-Mould Paint

防霉漆

HK RECOMMENDED

Biocide-infused acrylic that inhibits mould spore growth on the surface. Specify for bathrooms, kitchens, north-facing walls, and any wall with prior mould history. Same application method as standard emulsion.

含殺菌劑的丙烯酸塗料,抑制牆面霉菌孢子生長。適用於浴室、廚房、北向牆及有發霉紀錄的牆身。施工方法與普通乳膠漆相同。

Pros

  • + Active mould inhibitor — essential for HK's humid season (April–September)
  • + Available across most standard paint ranges with no special application required
  • + Some formulations also reduce surface condensation
  • + 主動防霉——香港潮濕季節(四至九月)的必要選擇
  • + 大多數標準油漆系列均有提供,施工方法無特別要求
  • + 部分配方同時具備減少牆面結露的功效

Cons

  • Biocide effectiveness diminishes over 3–5 years; reapplication needed
  • Does not fix the underlying moisture source — damp walls will mould again regardless
  • Surface prep is mandatory: existing mould must be treated with fungicidal wash before painting
  • 殺菌劑效能在 3–5 年後減退,需重新粉刷
  • 不能解決根本滲水問題——潮濕牆身無論如何仍會發霉
  • 底層處理必不可少:粉刷前須以殺菌劑清洗現有霉菌

Mineral / Limewash Paint

礦物漆 / 石灰水漆

LOW VOC

Silicate or lime-based formula. Near-zero VOC. Breathable — allows moisture vapour to pass through the wall surface, reducing condensation and long-term mould risk on cold walls.

矽酸鹽或石灰基配方。近零 VOC。透氣性強——允許水蒸氣透過牆面散發,減少冷牆結露及長期發霉風險。

Pros

  • + Near-zero VOC — safest for post-renovation indoor air quality
  • + Breathable surface reduces condensation-driven mould on cold exterior walls
  • + Distinctive matte depth — layered texture unavailable in standard emulsion
  • + 近零 VOC——裝修後室內空氣質素最安全的選擇
  • + 透氣牆面減少冷外牆因結露引起的霉菌問題
  • + 獨特啞光深度——分層質感是普通乳膠漆無法複製的

Cons

  • Cannot apply directly over existing gloss or semi-gloss paint without stripping or specialist primer
  • Less washable than emulsion — requires touch-up rather than wiping
  • Application is skill-sensitive; uneven technique shows under raking light
  • 不可直接塗於現有光澤或半光面漆,須先鏟底或使用專用底漆
  • 耐洗性不及乳膠漆——污漬須補色而非抹走
  • 施工技術要求高;在斜角光源下不均勻手法清晰可見

Micro-cement

微水泥

DECORATIVE

Polymer-modified cementitious coating applied in multiple 1–2mm layers. Creates a seamless concrete-look surface on walls, floors, or joinery. Requires a specialist applicator — not a standard painter.

聚合物改性水泥塗層,分多層薄塗(每層 1–2mm)。在牆身、地面或傢俬上呈現無縫混凝土質感。需專業施工人員,非一般油漆工。

Pros

  • + Seamless — no joints, grout lines, or panel edges
  • + Works on walls, floors, and countertops in a single material language
  • + Industrial texture without the structural load of poured concrete
  • + 完全無縫——無接縫、灰縫或板材邊緣
  • + 牆身、地面及台面可使用同一材料語言
  • + 工業質感而無澆築混凝土的結構負荷

Cons

  • Highly skill-dependent — surface defects visible under any directional light
  • Requires penetrating sealer on installation and annual resealing
  • Any damage requires the original specialist to repair; cannot be patched with standard filler
  • 極度依賴施工技術——任何方向光源下瑕疵清晰可見
  • 安裝時須塗封石劑,並每年重新封石
  • 任何損壞須由原施工專家修復,不能以普通填補物修補
WALL PANEL 牆板 + expand

Melamine Board

生態板

RECOMMENDED

Factory-applied melamine film on plywood substrate — no secondary adhesive. Lowest formaldehyde of all four options. Interior and exterior faces match (內外見光).

工廠壓製三聚氰胺膜於夾板底材——無需二次上膠。四種選擇中甲醛含量最低。內外見光效果一致。

Pros

  • + Lowest formaldehyde — melamine film bonded at mill, no site adhesive
  • + Interior and exterior faces carry the same finish (內外見光)
  • + Cost-effective for large wardrobe and cabinet runs
  • + 甲醛含量最低——三聚氰胺膜於工廠壓製,現場無需用膠
  • + 內外見光,表裡如一
  • + 大型衣櫃及廚櫃工程性價比高

Cons

  • Thin film (0.1–0.2mm) — lacks the tactile depth of HPL or real veneer
  • Colour and pattern range narrower than spray lacquer
  • Cannot be repainted or refinished on site
  • 薄膜(0.1–0.2mm),質感不及膠板或實木皮
  • 色彩及花紋選擇不及焗油豐富
  • 現場無法重新上漆或翻新

HPL Laminate

高壓防火膠板

PREMIUM

~1mm thick surface. Tactile depth genuine materials cannot match. Ask contractor to name the adhesive brand — adhesive is the main formaldehyde variable.

約 1mm 厚飾面,質感更真實自然。要求承建商列明膠水品牌——膠水是甲醛的主要來源。

Pros

  • + 1mm thick surface with genuine tactile depth
  • + Extremely durable and scratch-resistant
  • + Fire-rated; wide colour and pattern range
  • + 1mm 厚飾面,質感真實
  • + 極耐用,抗刮花
  • + 防火等級;色彩及花紋選擇豐富

Cons

  • Contact adhesive bonding is the primary formaldehyde source — adhesive quality varies by contractor
  • Premium cost; interior faces are plain unless separately specified
  • More common in commercial than residential
  • 接觸膠黏合是主要甲醛來源——膠水質量因承建商而異
  • 價格較高;內面需另行指定才有飾面
  • 較多用於商業而非住宅項目
JOINERY FINISHES 傢俬飾面 + expand

Melamine Board

生態板

RECOMMENDED

Factory-applied melamine film on plywood substrate — no secondary adhesive. Lowest formaldehyde of all four options. Interior and exterior faces match (內外見光).

工廠壓製三聚氰胺膜於夾板底材——無需二次上膠。四種選擇中甲醛含量最低。內外見光效果一致。

Pros

  • + Lowest formaldehyde — melamine film bonded at mill, no site adhesive
  • + Interior and exterior faces carry the same finish (內外見光)
  • + Cost-effective for large wardrobe and cabinet runs
  • + 甲醛含量最低——三聚氰胺膜於工廠壓製,現場無需用膠
  • + 內外見光,表裡如一
  • + 大型衣櫃及廚櫃工程性價比高

Cons

  • Thin film (0.1–0.2mm) — lacks the tactile depth of HPL or real veneer
  • Colour and pattern range narrower than spray lacquer
  • Cannot be repainted or refinished on site
  • 薄膜(0.1–0.2mm),質感不及膠板或實木皮
  • 色彩及花紋選擇不及焗油豐富
  • 現場無法重新上漆或翻新

HPL Laminate

高壓防火膠板

DURABLE

~1mm decorative laminate bonded with contact adhesive at the joinery workshop. Adhesive — not the board — is the primary formaldehyde source. Specify adhesive brand at quotation stage.

約 1mm 裝飾膠板,在傢俬廠以接觸膠黏合。甲醛的主要來源是膠水而非板材。報價時要求列明膠水品牌。

Pros

  • + Genuine 1mm surface depth — more tactile than melamine
  • + Extremely scratch and impact resistant
  • + Fire-rated; wide colour and pattern catalogue (Formica, 火立克 etc.)
  • + 1mm 真實飾面厚度,質感優於生態板
  • + 極耐刮擦及撞擊
  • + 防火等級;色彩及花紋款式豐富(Formica、火立克等)

Cons

  • Contact adhesive is the main formaldehyde variable — quality varies by contractor
  • Interior faces are plain unless explicitly specified (adds cost)
  • More common in commercial fit-outs; premium over 生態板 for residential
  • 接觸膠是甲醛的主要變量——膠水質量因承建商而異
  • 內面需另行指定才有飾面,否則為素面(增加成本)
  • 商業裝修較常用;住宅用途成本高於生態板

Wood Veneer

木皮

HIGH END

Real wood veneer (0.5–3mm) over substrate. Usually requires staining (索色) and a lacquer top coat — each layer adds formaldehyde. Specify water-based lacquer to minimise emissions.

0.5–3mm 實木皮貼於底材。通常需要索色及噴塗保護層——每層均增加甲醛。指定水性漆可減低揮發量。

Pros

  • + Authentic natural wood grain — highest visual quality of all four
  • + Can be stained to any tone; unique character in every board
  • + Adds genuine material warmth that printed finishes cannot replicate
  • + 天然實木紋理——四種選擇中視覺質量最高
  • + 可染成任何色調;每塊板材具獨特質感
  • + 帶來印刷飾面無法複製的真實物料溫暖感

Cons

  • Multiple finish layers (stain + lacquer) — each contributes formaldehyde; solvent-based lacquers especially
  • Moisture-sensitive at edges if not properly sealed; avoid humid environments
  • Requires periodic recoating (every 5–8 years); highest long-term maintenance
  • 多層工序(索色加保護層)——每層均釋放甲醛,油性漆尤甚
  • 邊緣若未妥善封邊對潮濕敏感;避免用於高濕度環境
  • 需定期重新噴塗(每 5–8 年);長期維護要求最高

Spray Lacquer

焗油

SOLID COLOUR

MDF substrate sanded, primed, and spray-painted. Used for solid-colour doors and panels. Typically the highest-odour finish option — specify water-based lacquer and allow 2+ weeks ventilation before occupation.

MDF 底材打磨、底漆後噴漆。用於純色門板及面板。通常是四種選擇中氣味最重的——指定水性漆,入住前須通風 2 週以上。

Pros

  • + Smooth seamless solid-colour result; high-gloss options available
  • + Colour matched to any RAL or Pantone specification
  • + Clean, minimalist aesthetic well-suited to contemporary interiors
  • + 色面平滑無縫,可選高光效果
  • + 可按 RAL 或 Pantone 任意配色
  • + 簡潔現代的質感,適合當代室內設計

Cons

  • Highest VOC and odour of all four finishes — especially solvent-based; specify water-based
  • Susceptible to edge chipping at corners; difficult to patch invisibly
  • MDF substrate has poor moisture resistance — avoid for bathroom vanities
  • 四種飾面中 VOC 及氣味最重——尤其油性漆;請指定水性漆
  • 邊角易崩裂,難以隱形修補
  • MDF 底材耐潮性差——不建議用於浴室櫃
WORKTOPS 工作台面 + expand

Engineered Stone (Quartz)

石英石工程石材

RECOMMENDED

90–95% quartz + resin. Consistent pattern, no sealing required. Standard for kitchen countertops and bathroom vanities in HK residential.

90–95% 石英石加樹脂。花紋均一,無需封石。香港住宅廚房及浴室台面的標準規格。

Pros

  • + Consistent pattern — no bookmatching required
  • + No sealing needed; very hard and scratch-resistant
  • + Non-porous; hygienic for food preparation
  • + 花紋均一,無需對紋
  • + 無需封石;硬度高,抗刮花
  • + 無孔隙,符合食品安全衛生要求

Cons

  • Chips at edges if struck; cannot be repaired invisibly
  • Not UV-stable — avoid outdoor use (resin binder fades)
  • Very heavy — structural support required for long overhangs
  • 受撞擊易崩邊,修復後難以完全隱形
  • 不耐紫外線——避免戶外使用(樹脂結合劑會褪色)
  • 重量大——長懸臂需加強結構支撐

Solid Surface

實心面材

SEAMLESS OPTION

Invisible joins — ideal for continuous runs and integrated sinks. Repairable by sanding. Softer than quartz; avoid abrasive cleaning.

接縫不可見,適合連續台面及一體式洗手盆。可打磨修復。比石英石較軟,避免使用研磨清潔劑。

Pros

  • + Invisible joins — ideal for long continuous runs
  • + Integrated sinks possible with no junction to trap bacteria
  • + Surface scratches can be sanded out and refinished
  • + 接縫完全隱形,適合長連續台面
  • + 可製作一體式洗手盆,無接縫積菌
  • + 表面刮痕可打磨修復翻新

Cons

  • Softer than quartz — scratches more easily in daily use
  • Low heat resistance — trivets essential; direct pots will mark
  • Higher cost than quartz for equivalent coverage
  • 比石英石較軟,日常使用較易刮花
  • 耐熱性低——必須使用隔熱墊;直接放鍋會留痕
  • 同等面積成本高於石英石

Sintered Stone

燒結石

PREMIUM

Ultra-compact surface fired at 1200°C. Near-zero porosity, UV-stable, heat-resistant. Suitable for countertops, feature walls, and outdoor use.

超緻密表面,於 1200°C 高溫燒製。近乎零孔隙,耐紫外線,耐高溫。適用於台面、主題牆及戶外使用。

Pros

  • + UV-stable — suitable for outdoor kitchens and balconies
  • + Near-zero porosity; no sealing ever required
  • + Heat and scratch resistant; direct pots and pans safe
  • + Large format slabs with consistent veining for bookmatching
  • + 耐紫外線——適用於戶外廚房及露台
  • + 近乎零孔隙,永不需要封石
  • + 耐熱耐刮,可直接放置鍋具
  • + 大板規格,石紋均一,適合對紋拼接

Cons

  • Brittle under point impact — chips at unsupported edges
  • Requires specialised cutting tools on site
  • Premium cost — significantly higher than quartz
  • 受點狀衝擊易崩裂——無支撐邊角特別脆弱
  • 現場切割需要專用工具
  • 高端價位——成本顯著高於石英石

Natural Marble

天然大理石

HIGH MAINTENANCE

Seal on installation and annually. Specify honed or brushed finish for floors — polished marble is slippery when wet in HK summers.

安裝時及每年封石。地面建議指定啞光或拉絲面層——拋光大理石在香港夏天潮濕時易滑。

Pros

  • + Unique natural veining — each slab one-of-a-kind
  • + Premium aesthetic; adds property value
  • + Cool surface — ideal for pastry and baking areas
  • + 天然石紋獨一無二,每塊石板各異
  • + 高端質感,提升物業價值
  • + 表面涼爽,適合烘焙區域

Cons

  • Porous — must seal on install and annually; etches from acids (lemon, vinegar)
  • Polished finish slippery when wet — specify honed or brushed for floors
  • Highest maintenance of all worktop options
  • 多孔——安裝時及每年須封石;接觸酸性物質(檸檬、醋)會侵蝕表面
  • 拋光面潮濕時易滑——地面請指定啞光或拉絲面
  • 所有台面選擇中維護要求最高
WATERPROOFING 防水系統 + expand

Sika 107 (Two-Component)

Sika 107 雙組分防水

STANDARD

Factory-calibrated powder + liquid. 2mm DFT, 2 coats cross-hatch. 24-hour flood test before screed. For bathroom floors and walls (300mm upstand minimum).

廠家配比粉末加液體。2mm 乾膜厚度,十字刷法兩層。澆灌找平層前進行 24 小時浸水測試。適用於浴室地面及牆身(最少 300mm 上翻)。

Pros

  • + Factory-calibrated ratio — consistent quality vs. site-mixed alternatives
  • + Cementitious — excellent bond to concrete substrate
  • + Flexible when cured; accommodates minor structural movement
  • + 廠家配比,質量穩定,優於現場自調產品
  • + 水泥基配方——與混凝土底層黏結力強
  • + 固化後具彈性,可適應輕微結構移動

Cons

  • Requires correct on-site mixing — poor technique negates the factory calibration
  • Not suitable for negative-pressure (external leakage) scenarios
  • Substrate must be clean, sound, and damp-cured before application
  • 須正確現場攪拌——操作不當會令廠家配比失效
  • 不適用於負壓(外牆滲水)情況
  • 底層須潔淨、穩固並預先濕潤後才可施工

Sika 720 (Negative Pressure)

Sika 720 負壓防水

EXTERNAL LEAKAGE

Applied to inner face when outer face is inaccessible. Epoxy-modified; resists hydrostatic pressure from behind. 1.5mm application — substrate prep critical.

當外側無法施工時,塗於內側。環氧改性配方,可抵抗背面水壓。1.5mm 塗層,底層處理至關重要。

Pros

  • + Only viable option when exterior face is inaccessible (party walls, below-grade)
  • + Epoxy-modified — resists hydrostatic pressure from behind
  • + Does not require excavation or external access
  • + 外側無法施工時(共用牆、地下層)的唯一可行方案
  • + 環氧改性配方——可抵抗背面水壓
  • + 無需挖掘或外側進場施工

Cons

  • Substrate preparation is critical — must be mechanically keyed; any weakness causes delamination
  • More expensive than positive-pressure systems
  • Remedial use only — not a first-choice for new construction
  • 底層處理至關重要——須機械打毛;任何薄弱位置均可能導致脫層
  • 成本高於正壓防水系統
  • 僅用於補救工程——新建工程不建議作首選

Common Questions 常見問題

Straight answers to the questions clients ask before, during, and after a renovation.

QUESTION 01

Why do two renovation quotes for the same flat differ by 50%?

同一個單位,兩份報價差一半,正常嗎?

+

Almost always a methodology difference, not a profit difference. One quote may omit substrate preparation, use flat-pack joinery instead of nail-built construction, or apply a polymer additive instead of a certified two-component waterproofing system. Ask each contractor to describe their installation sequence for the major items — the scope difference will become clear.

幾乎必然是施工方法的分別,而非利潤高低。其中一份報價可能省略了底層處理、以板裝式傢俬取代釘裝、或以聚合物添加劑代替雙組分防水系統。要求每位承建商說明主要項目的施工工序,差異自然浮現。

QUESTION 02

Do I need regulatory approval before starting renovation works?

裝修前需要申請審批嗎?

+

It depends on the scope. Under the Minor Works Control System (MWCS), most internal renovation works fall into Class II or III — no pre-commencement notification is needed, though records must be kept. However, any structural wall alteration or removal requires Class I notification to the Buildings Department before work starts, plus a Registered Structural Engineer's involvement. When in doubt, engage your designer or contractor to classify the works before demolition begins.

視乎工程範圍。根據小型工程監管制度,大部分室內裝修屬第 II 或 III 類——毋須事先通知屋宇署,但須保存記錄。然而,任何改動或拆除承重牆的工程屬第 I 類,須於動工前通知屋宇署,並由註冊結構工程師參與。如有疑問,請在拆卸前向設計師或承建商確認工程類別。

QUESTION 03

How long does a typical Hong Kong residential renovation take?

香港住宅裝修一般需時多久?

+

A 600–900 sqft residential fit-out typically runs 10–14 weeks from site handover to practical completion. The schedule is primarily driven by wet works curing time: floor screed needs 7–28 days before tiling, wall plaster needs 14 days before painting. Joinery lead time (4–6 weeks from order to delivery) often runs in parallel and determines when the project can close out. Larger or more complex projects add time proportionally.

600–900 平方呎住宅裝修,由交場至實際竣工一般需 10–14 週。工期主要受濕水工程養護時間左右:地台找平需 7–28 天後才能鋪磚,牆身批盪需 14 天後才能油漆。傢俬訂製交貨期(落單後約 4–6 週)通常與其他工程同步進行,往往決定項目的最終完成時間。較大或較複雜的項目則按比例延長。

QUESTION 04

What is the difference between an interior designer and a contractor?

室內設計師與裝修承建商有什麼分別?

+

A contractor prices and executes construction works. A designer produces the spatial plan, material specifications, and working drawings that define what gets built. Some firms offer both under one contract (design-and-build); others separate them. The key practical difference is accountability: a designer is responsible for what is specified; a contractor is responsible for what is built. Using a designer gives you a documented scope that can be tendered to multiple contractors for comparison.

承建商負責報價及執行工程;設計師則制定空間規劃、物料規格及施工圖,定義建造的內容。部分公司提供設計施工一體化服務;也有公司將兩者分開。關鍵的實際分別在於問責性:設計師對規格負責,承建商對施工負責。聘請設計師可讓您取得書面的工程範圍,並向多家承建商招標比較。

QUESTION 05

Should I specify E0 or ENF board for my joinery?

傢俬應該指定 E0 還是 ENF 板材?

+

Most reputable HK joinery companies already use E0 or ENF as standard — asking to 'upgrade to E0' is often unnecessary. The more important question is the surface finish and adhesive system. Formaldehyde in finished joinery comes primarily from adhesives used during fabrication, not the substrate grade alone. 生態板 (melamine board) on plywood substrate minimises adhesive use and is the lowest-formaldehyde combination in common use. Spray lacquer (焗油) finishes typically have the highest odour regardless of substrate grade.

大多數信譽良好的香港傢俬公司已以 E0 或 ENF 為標準——要求「升級至 E0」通常並非必要。更重要的問題是飾面及膠水系統。成品傢俬中甲醛的主要來源是製造過程中使用的膠水,而非單純的板材等級。以夾板為底材的生態板能減少膠水用量,是常用組合中甲醛含量最低的選擇。無論板材等級如何,焗油飾面的傢俬氣味通常最重。

QUESTION 06

Why does large-format tile cost more to install than standard tile?

大磚鋪貼費用為何比標準磚貴?

+

Three factors: weight, precision, and speed. A 1200×600mm porcelain tile weighs ~22kg — installation requires suction cups, levelling clips, and sometimes two workers. The substrate must be flat to ±2mm over 2m (standard tiles tolerate more variation). Installation rate drops from ~20 sqft/hr for standard tiles to ~10 sqft/hr for large format. A tiling surcharge for large format is legitimate — a contractor who quotes the same rate regardless is likely planning dot-and-dab adhesive, which causes hollow spots (空鼓) and eventual tile cracking.

三個因素:重量、精準度及施工速度。一塊 1200×600mm 瓷磚重約 22 公斤——施工需使用吸盤器、定位夾,有時需要兩名師傅。底層必須平整至每 2 米誤差 ±2mm(標準磚對誤差容忍度較高)。施工速度從標準磚的每小時約 20 平方呎降至大磚的約 10 平方呎。大磚附加費是合理收費——若承建商報價相同則可能計劃使用點黏法,日後易出現空鼓及磚裂。

QUESTION 07

What waterproofing should I use in a bathroom?

浴室應使用哪種防水系統?

+

Specify a factory-calibrated two-component cementitious system (e.g. Sika 107) — not a site-mixed cement + polymer additive (英泥寶/白膠漿). Site-mixed 107 additive is unreliable because sand grading and mixing ratios cannot be controlled consistently on site; it slows water but does not stop it. Apply two coats in perpendicular directions (十字刷法) to eliminate pinholes. Conduct a 24-hour flood test before any screed is poured. For external wall leakage you cannot access from outside, use a negative-pressure system (Sika 720) on the inner face.

請指定廠家配比的雙組分水泥基防水系統(如 Sika 107),而非現場自行調配的英泥加英泥寶(白膠漿)。現場自調 107 添加劑因沙的粗細及混合比例難以控制而不可靠,只能阻水而非真正防水。以十字刷法分兩層塗刷以消除沙眼。在澆灌找平層前進行 24 小時浸水測試。若外牆滲水無法從外側施工,應在內側使用負壓防水系統(Sika 720)。

QUESTION 08

The designer's layout changed after the site visit. Is this normal?

設計師睇完現場後改動了佈局,這正常嗎?

+

Yes — and it is a sign the designer is doing their job correctly. Quotation-stage layouts are based on floor plans that typically carry 25–75mm dimensional tolerances. On site, building services (AC positions, distribution board, water risers, gas meter) impose hard constraints that can force the entire layout to change. A layout that works on paper but ignores the location of a structural beam or an AC condensate drain is not a workable design. Expect the first site visit to generate revisions, and sign off on the updated layout before any drawing production begins.

正常——這正是設計師盡職盡責的表現。報價階段的佈局依據平面圖,而平面圖通常有 25–75mm 的尺寸誤差。在現場,建築設施(冷氣位置、電箱、水喉立管、煤氣錶)會帶來難以更改的限制,可能迫使整個佈局重新規劃。一個在圖紙上可行、但忽略承重柱或冷氣去水位置的設計並不切實可行。請預期首次現場考察後會有修改,並在開始出圖前確認更新後的佈局。

Ready to Start? 準備開始?

You now have the full picture. Tell us about your space — our intake assistant walks through the brief in about five minutes.

您已全面掌握裝修知識,告訴我們您的空間需求——智能助理將協助您於五分鐘內完成簡介。