Back to Blog
home-renovation
Your First Home Renovation in Singapore: A Beginner’s Guide to the Carpentry Phase
Reno & Remodel Carpentry Team3 min read1 July 2026
#home renovation guide#first time homeowner#Singapore carpentry#renovation timeline#HDB renovation#carpentry tips
Your First Home Renovation in Singapore: A Beginner’s Guide to the Carpentry Phase
Renovating your first BTO or resale flat is thrilling but can be confusing. Carpentry is one of the most visible and expensive parts, so getting it right is essential. This guide walks you through the entire carpentry phase.
Where Carpentry Fits in the Renovation Timeline
A typical HDB renovation follows this order:
- Hacking & demolition
- Brickwork & plastering
- Plumbing & electrical rough‑in
- Ceiling & partition works
- Carpentry (this is where we come in)
- Painting
- Final electrical & plumbing fitting
- Cleaning & handover
Carpentry is done after the false ceiling is up and before painting, because we need a clean, dry environment.
The Carpentry Timeline for a 4‑Room HDB
- Week 1: Site measurement after ceiling and plastering are complete. Design finalisation and material selection.
- Week 2: Fabrication in our workshop.
- Week 3: Delivery and installation – kitchen first, then wardrobes, shoe cabinet, feature wall.
- Week 4: Touch‑ups, adjustments, and joint inspection with you.
Key Carpentry Items & What to Expect
| Item | Typical Cost (supply + install) | Installation Time |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen cabinets | $5,000‑$8,000 | 2‑3 days |
| Master wardrobe | $2,500‑$4,000 | 1‑2 days |
| Shoe cabinet | $800‑$1,200 | 0.5 day |
| TV feature wall + console | $2,000‑$3,500 | 1‑2 days |
| Study table | $600‑$1,000 | 0.5 day |
How to Prepare Before the Carpenter Arrives
- Clear the area – remove all furniture and belongings from the rooms.
- Protect existing flooring – we bring cardboard, but if you have special flooring, mention it.
- Be reachable – or have someone on‑site for quick decisions.
- Finalise your power point locations – coordinate with your electrician before carpentry starts.
Common First‑Timer Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
- Changing your mind after fabrication begins – this causes delays and extra cost. Take your time during the design phase.
- Choosing materials based solely on price – cheap laminate may peel in 2 years.
- Forgetting about ventilation – behind cabinets and in shoe cabinets, airflow prevents mould.
- Not planning for appliances – ensure your fridge, oven, and washing machine dimensions are given to the carpenter.
Questions to Ask Your Carpenter
At Reno & Remodel Carpentry, we welcome all questions:
- What materials do you use? (Answer: E1 moisture‑resistant plywood)
- What hardware brand? (BLUM, Hettich)
- Is the price all‑inclusive? (Yes, our quotation is final)
- Warranty period? (10 years on workmanship)
- Can I see a similar project? (We can arrange a viewing)
Start Your Journey with Confidence
Our team will guide you through every step. Visit 6 Gambas Way #07‑02 Singapore 756939 or call +65 8092 6533 to book a free consultation.