Materials & Classes

• Material classes

  Economy — basic quality for rentals/temporary; standard — best price/quality for homes; premium — durability and aesthetics. Price difference ×2–4, lifespan ×1.5–3.

• Where not to save

  Rough materials: mixes, waterproofing, wiring, pipes — a mistake costs demolition. Cheap laminate and plumbing wear out fastest.

• Where you can save

  Finish decor: wallpaper, skirting, fixtures — easy to replace. Back-row tiles and backsplash — economy is unnoticeable.

• Quality checks

  Mixes — fresh date, intact bag; drywall — Knauf/standard 9.5–12.5mm without crumbles; cable — VVGng with marking and true cross-section.

• Purchase margin

  Tile +10% (cuts, breakage), laminate +7–8%, wallpaper +1 roll, paint +10% for the second coat. Leftovers with receipt are returnable in most chains.

The most common mistake — saving on rough materials: they are invisible but hold the whole renovation.