5 Types of Repair: Find Out Which One You Need

Repairs are usually divided into two types — cosmetic and capital — but in reality there are more categories. What other types of repair exist, explained by designer Ruslan Kirnichansky in his blog “Diary of an Architect”.

Ruslan Kirnichansky — an expert. Architect, interior designer

Cosmetic

What is it?

Cosmetic repair is an external update without work in the engineering network. For example, repaint walls, replace doors, update ceramic tiles. The main goal is to refresh the apartment and fix defects after use: fill cracks and scratches, restore surfaces. Usually done once every 5–10 years.

Who is it for?

It suits apartments after capital repair — when there are no problems with engineering systems and layout. Cosmetic repairs are often done before selling an apartment: this allows to freshen up the space and present the flat in a more favorable light.

How much does it cost?

For a standard apartment, the price will be within 5–15 thousand rubles per square meter, including materials and labor of professionals.

Capital

What is it?

When an apartment needs major changes — for example, updating engineering systems and re-planning, capital repair is performed, which means full demolition and replacement of internal systems. New partitions are rebuilt, a new electrical scheme is assembled, the ventilation system is completed.

Capital repair is done for a long-term period. Therefore, it is important to agree on re-planning and avoid errors in engineering systems.

Who is it for?

Capital repair suits new constructions and secondary housing stock. This type of repair allows you to completely transform the space and make it as comfortable as possible.

How much does it cost?

From 15 thousand rubles per square meter. Final cost depends on the type and complexity of work.

Decoration

What is it?

Changing the space without construction work. Sometimes, to update an apartment, it’s enough to rearrange and change home textiles.

Who is it for?

For everyone who has no complaints about space organization but wants a refresh. Then, decorators are invited.

How much does it cost?

From 8 thousand rubles for one consultation. However, at least three consultations are needed: at the first meeting, the decorator identifies the problem and suggests solutions; the second meeting — choosing furniture and materials; the third — placing furniture and accepting the work.

Repair Without Problems

What is it?

Repair without problems is handled by specialists: there is a designer, author’s and technical supervision, professional contractor.

Who is it for?

This type of repair suits those who value their time and strive to improve the quality of life.

How much does it cost?

From 20 thousand rubles per square meter. In this case, the cost is negotiable and includes type, duration, and complexity of work.

Ruslan Kirnichansky's Project: Photo in Progress

European Repair

What is it?

A repair that never ends. For European repair, an architect is not invited, and design is left to the foreman’s discretion. Repair without a specialist or project — a guarantee of upcoming problems and unnecessary expenses.

Who is it for?

For those who don’t know how to learn from others' mistakes.

How much does it cost?

The cost is capital repair multiplied by three. The result of European repair will be disappointment and emptying all bank accounts.