What is the difference between home remodeling and home renovation?
When you were looking for a general contractor to work on your home improvement project, you probably saw the terms remodeling and renovation used interchangeably.
There is a fundamental difference between the two of them. Renovation means to “restore” something and return it to a previous condition by making improvements, such as repainting. Remodeling means restructuring or redesigning something.
In its wider definition, renovation can be understood as the process of making something new again. That can be anything from repairs to the installation of new fixtures or replacing cabinets. No matter what kind of work is done on the renovation, the basic layout of the property is never significantly affected. A kitchen will always be a kitchen, and an office will always be an office. It is just renovated, repaired, or modified to match the rest of the design of the home rather than redesigned entirely.
Remodeling means making changes to the layout, structure, or primary function of a room. This results in a fundamental change to the design of the space. A room can be considered remodeled when it undergoes a comprehensive modification of its structure, style, design, and layout.
Remodeling is much more expensive
Renovating is typically less expensive than remodeling the same space. Because remodeling a home will involve modifying its physical structure, it is extremely important to reorganize the property’s wiring, plumbing, and ductwork. This will make the project much more difficult and expensive. A remodel typically requires more effort, and the cost of materials is usually higher as well. This is because the majority of remodeling projects involve creating new additions to the structure. While the final cost comparison will depend on the scale of the job and the quality of the materials, renovations are generally cheaper.
The renovation provides a higher ROI
When it comes to return on investment, homeowners typically see a better return on renovation projects than they do on remodeling projects once they sell their homes. This is because renovating costs less than remodeling and it involves repairing and upgrading a home’s fundamental features. Even if you spend a lot of money remodeling your home to include a sunroom that can be used all year round and add more rooms, no one will buy it if the roof is leaking.
Remodeling is a great solution for poor home design
Renovating won’t help if you have to pass through one bedroom to get to another one, or if the water lines to your kitchen sink are located in an outside wall and freeze practically every winter. You will find both of these things in older homes. Oftentimes, the only option for a home with a bad design is to remodel it. Older homes that were built long before strict building codes usually have bad designs.
When should you renovate your home?
Renovating the home will result in less money spent than doing major remodeling projects. Restoring the home’s appearance to that of when it was first built is a great thing and you will not spend too much money unless it is absolutely necessary to make significant changes to the design of your home or the structure itself. Renovating a home will result in a higher return on investment for owners who have plans to sell their property in the near future.
Renovations that are quite easy and cost-effective include new lighting fixtures, paint, cabinet refinishing, small improvements to the kitchen and bathroom, and new faucets. These modifications are examples of smart renovations. Not only do these installations make the space more appealing, but they also have the potential to make daily life at home less complicated. Those who are just interested in making their home more comfortable and reflective of their specific tastes should go with home renovations.
Permits
Permits for building must be obtained whenever there is a potential threat to safety. When a permit is obtained, it indicates that the work will be inspected to ensure that it complies with the relevant codes and is safe and suitable for living. Remodeling projects always need a permit because it changes the structure of the home. If your renovation will include the replacement of plumbing lines or electrical wiring, then you will also be obligated to get a permit for that type of work.
How do I choose a contractor for remodeling or renovation?
It’s never been easier to find a contractor for your project. You can start by going to “Google” and typing down “remodeling contractor near me” and you will see the list of companies in your area. Check their work and their reviews, and ask them when they are available to talk about your project. They will listen to your needs and provide you with a free estimate. You can complete the same process a few times and go with a company you like the most.
Final Words
The cost, needs, wants, and return on investment should be considered while deciding between a remodel and a renovation. You will need to evaluate each factor and what it is that you want to accomplish and the current situation of your home. It is essential that the timing is perfect since you do not want either the project or your life to be disrupted at an inappropriate time. Before you pick which option is best for you, make sure you have a clear understanding of the end purpose of your project as well as the value, function, or both that will result from its completion.
