Despite their age, they are widely used in the developing world because of their rugged design, ease of maintenance and low operating costs.

For ease of maintenance, use a wooden floor in the sitting room, a vinyl covering in the kitchen and bathroom, and carpet in the bedrooms.

For ease of maintenance, train your wall plants up to the level of the first-floor windowsills.

For ease of maintenance, keep vigorous climbers separate on the wall.

Overall robustness and ease of maintenance have been improved.