Converting the Look and Function of Your Apartment Rental with False Walls
October 12, 2011 | DIY Home Improvement, Handy How-Tos
When you’re looking for a new apartment rental, you usually have an idea of what your perfect apartment will look like. Perhaps it’s a two-bedroom, one-bath, spacious living room and a large kitchen. But in some cases, instead of simply stumbling upon your dream place, you might have to create your perfect apartment living environment. If this is the case, converting your property with a temporary false wall is one way to achieve this goal, and can also be an easy way to save some money!
Perks of False Walls
Temporary walls are a great way to create more rooms with the space that you have. If you live alone, a convertible wall can be used to divide a large living room into spaces such as an office or a guest room. Many times, roommates choose to install false walls to transform a large one bedroom apartment into two, and similarly, studio apartments can often be converted into one bedroom pads. When converting a one bedroom apartment into a living space for two, renting can become much more affordable for both parties. Convertible walls are used so frequently that it’s often difficult to tell them apart from real walls!
Price of False Walls
The cost to install a temporary false wall can vary greatly, depending on what your individual needs might be. A simple wall with no doors or windows is usually the most basic installation, and prices naturally increase with the size and complexity of the wall. Once you decide on the type of wall that you need, it’s important to choose a reliable company that has a solid reputation for their work. It’s important to note that while temporary walls can save you a lot of money in the long-run, the walls themselves are not always cheap. There is typically a down payment required when purchasing a wall, in addition to the cost of the actual wall. Down payments usually fall within the range of $200 to $500 and the cost of the wall can average from $1300 to $1800. In addition, there are sometimes costs associated with the installation and taking down of the wall. When pricing out companies, see which companies might be willing to install and take down your wall for no extra charge (believe it or not, some companies don’t charge for these services, and it’s possible to negotiate with those that do).
Restrictions on False Walls
Before installing your new wall, make sure to first check with your landlord to confirm that the building allows for walls to be built. Some buildings or property owners do not allow temporary walls, so this is an important first step. Once you’ve confirmed that your building does allow walls, make sure to go through all of the right channels to ensure that the wall is installed properly and legally. Over the past few years, laws concerning temporary wall regulations have become increasingly enforced. Some cities are also starting to enforce against walls that are not up to code, which can sometimes be a safety hazard. New York City is a great example of a city that is changing the way in which temporary walls are used. The Department of Buildings has begun grueling inspections to make sure that walls are put up and taken down properly, so you must receive approval from both your landlord and the Department of Buildings before putting up your wall.
False walls are great options to help personalize your space. Whether you’re seeking an extra bedroom, a walk-in closet or an alcove for a reading nook, these walls allow you to create a new apartment that fits with your lifestyle. Just remember: taking the proper precautions are necessary, but will pay off in the end!
