Interior features and finishes

Bungalow interiors featured large amounts of timber panelling and joinery, with wallpaper or plasterboard on the walls.

Other common features included stained or varnished timber floors, plaster panel ceilings with beams or battens, and large amounts of built-in storage.

Internal linings

Internal wall linings

Scrim and wallpaper were found in early bungalows, but plasterboard became common from the mid-1920s. Interior walls were typically lined with timber, overlaid with scrim and wallpaper in living areas. Read more.

Ceilings

Panelled ceilings with beams or battens were common, but some bungalows had ornate plastered ceilings. Read more.

Modifications

In many bungalows, new hard lining has been installed on walls, though ceilings are likely to be original. Read more.

Back to top

Joinery

Bungalows had extensive timber joinery including timber panel doors,  and built-in cupboards in halls, kitchen and other rooms. Read more.

Back to top

Common problems and remedies

Problems with internal walls and ceilings

Common problems include walls that are out of square, cracked plaster ceilings, draughts, and the need to incorporate new insulation and linings. Read more.

Matching new mouldings to original

Skirtings and other mouldings are no longer made in imperial dimensions, making it difficult to get an exact match for original mouldings. Read more.

Borer

Borer is unsightly and can sometimes affect a house’s structure. Read more.

Rot

Rot is common when moisture is present, and can cause significant structural damage. Read more.

Mould

Mould is common when moisture is present, and can be harmful to health. Read more.