Hacking Contractor Singapore
Renovation projects in Singapore often begin with a critical first step: hacking. Whether you are planning a full kitchen or bathroom renovation, replacing old tiles, repairing damaged plaster, or preparing walls for new finishes, professional hacking services are essential to achieve clean, safe, and structurally sound surfaces.
A hacking contractor is a specialist trained to remove building materials—ceramic tiles, screeds, plaster, wall finishes, floor finishes—without causing unnecessary damage to the structural substrate. This service is indispensable when renovating HDB flats, condominiums, landed houses, commercial spaces, or industrial properties.
At Best Painting SG, we provide professional hacking services across Singapore. With experienced technicians, modern tools, and strict safety protocols, we ensure a reliable and efficient hacking process. This guide will help you understand what hacking contractors do, what services are included, why professional help matters, costs involved, and how to choose the right hacking contractor in Singapore.
What Is a Hacking Contractor?
A hacking contractor specializes in controlled demolition and removal of building surfaces, including:
- Ceramic wall and floor tiles
- Screed underlayments
- Thin-set adhesives
- Plaster and render
- Concrete chippings
- Old paint layers, wallpaper remnants, and coatings
The goal is to remove unwanted materials while preserving the underlying structure and preparing the surface for the next renovation step—whether it’s plastering, tiling, flooring, painting, or waterproofing.
Why You Need a Professional Hacking Contractor
While hacking may seem straightforward, it involves risks and challenges that untrained individuals should avoid:
1. Safety Considerations
Improper hacking can weaken concrete, damage reinforcement bars, break plumbing pipes, or expose electrical lines. Professionals know where and how much to hack safely.
2. Hidden Utilities
Walls and floors often conceal water pipes, electrical cabling, and drainage lines. Professional contractors use inspection techniques to avoid accidental damage.
3. Structural Stability
Incorrect hacking can compromise wall integrity or floor flatness, leading to uneven surfaces and subsequent renovation issues.
4. Dust and Debris Control
Hacking generates dust and debris. Professional teams use containment methods, protective sheeting, and clean-up protocols to minimize impact on your home.
5. Efficient Workflow
Experienced contractors work faster, cleaner, and with greater precision, saving time and reducing labor costs.
Types of Hacking Services Offered by Professionals
A comprehensive hacking contractor can provide several types of services depending on the renovation requirements:
1. Tile Hacking (Wall & Floor)
Tile hacking is one of the most requested services, especially during kitchen, bathroom, and laundry area renovations. It includes:
- Removing ceramic wall tiles
- Removing floor tiles
- Breaking down tile adhesive and cement mortar
- Preparing surfaces for new tiles or finishes
Tile hacking is typically measured in square feet and requires precision to avoid harming underlying structures.
2. Screed Removal
Screed is a cement-based underlayer beneath tiles or floor finishes. Removal is necessary when:
- Re-tiling a floor with new adhesion requirements
- Installing different flooring materials
- Repairing moisture-affected screed failures
Professional screed removal ensures a smooth and level substrate for the next renovation stage.
3. Plaster Removal
Old plaster can crack, delaminate, or absorb moisture, necessitating removal before re-plastering. Services include:
- Removing weakened plaster
- Stripping damaged wall surfaces
- Preparing for new plaster, putty, or paint finishes
4. Paint & Coating Removal
Before repainting or recoating, old paint layers, wallpaper-backed surfaces, or industrial coatings must be removed for proper adhesion.
5. Concrete Chipping & Partial Demolition
For major renovations, contractors may perform concrete chipping to:
- Lower floor levels
- Create recesses for thresholds or skirting
- Expose reinforcement for structural updates
This work should always be executed by professionals due to safety and stability concerns.
Hacking Contractor Process in Singapore
Best Painting SG follows a structured process to ensure safety, efficiency, and quality.
1. Site Inspection & Assessment
Before any work begins, we conduct a thorough inspection to evaluate:
- Material type (tile, screed, plaster)
- Substrate condition (concrete, gypsum, plasterboard)
- Hidden utilities
- Surface flatness and damage
- Scope and access for equipment
This allows accurate planning and safe execution.
2. Protection & Setup
We protect:
- Furniture and belongings
- Floors and doorways
- Air vents and electrical fittings
Protective sheeting and barriers effectively limit dust spread.
3. Controlled Hacking
Using professional tools such as demolition hammers, electric chipping machines, and pneumatic breakers, we remove targeted surfaces with precision.
4. Debris Removal & Site Cleaning
All debris is systematically removed and safely disposed of, leaving a clean workspace ready for renovation.
5. Surface Preparation
After hacking, we ensure that surfaces are:
- Level
- Free of loose debris
- Clean and dry
- Ready for tiling, plastering, painting, or flooring
This step is crucial for future adhesion and finish quality.
Why Best Painting SG Is a Trusted Hacking Contractor in Singapore
Best Painting SG is known for delivering dependable renovation services that include professional hacking alongside painting, plastering, and repair work.
1. Comprehensive Renovation Support
From hacking to surface prep to final painting, we provide one-stop services.
2. Experienced Technicians
Our team is trained to handle complex hacking requirements without structural damage.
3. Transparent Pricing
We provide clear, itemized quotes based on site assessment with no hidden fees.
4. Efficient Workflow
We minimise renovation delays by coordinating hacking, cleaning, and subsequent services.
5. Quality and Safety Standards
We comply with Singapore’s building regulations, safety protocols, and renovation guidelines.
Hacking Contractor Cost in Singapore
Costs vary depending on job type, scale, and accessibility.
General Price Guide
- Wall tile hacking: $6 – $12 per sq ft
- Floor tile hacking: $8 – $15 per sq ft
- Screed removal: $10 – $18 per sq ft
- Plaster removal: $5 – $10 per sq ft
- Concrete chipping: $12 – $25 per sq ft
On-site inspection provides accurate costs tailored to your property.
When Should You Hire a Hacking Contractor?
You should consider a hacking contractor when:
- Renovating kitchens, bathrooms, or wet areas
- Preparing walls for tiling or plastering
- Removing damaged or mold-infested surfaces
- Upgrading old finishes for resale or personal use
- Changing flooring types or levels
- Addressing water seepage problems behind tiles
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is hacking in renovation?
Hacking refers to controlled removal of tiles, plaster, screed, and finishes to prepare surfaces for renovation.
2. Is DIY hacking recommended?
No. DIY hacking can damage underlying structures and concealed utilities.
3. How long does tile hacking take?
Most residential jobs take 1–3 days depending on area size.
4. Do you handle debris removal?
Yes, professional hacking includes full debris removal.
5. Does hacking generate dust?
Yes, but we use protection measures to minimise spread.
6. Can hacking weaken walls?
Improper hacking can, but trained contractors avoid structural damage.
7. Do I need hacking before painting?
If walls have tiles, old plaster, or coatings, hacking ensures proper surface prep.
8. Is hacking allowed in HDB flats?
Yes, when performed according to HDB renovation guidelines.
9. Do you provide site inspection before quoting?
Yes, accurate pricing requires on-site assessment.
10. Can you hack for full home renovations?
Yes, we handle projects for kitchens, bathrooms, living areas, and more.
