Remodel vs. Renovation: What Is the Difference?

You may see the words remodel vs. renovation used interchangeably, but there are some differences that you should know upfront. Talking to a contractor can be confusing for both of you if you use the wrong terminology. You may mean one thing, but the professional hears it as something else. That is also why utilizing the services of an experienced interior designer is crucial when planning any type of renovation vs. remodel.

Any home upgrades will improve the functionality, aesthetic appeal, and possibly the value of your property. Remodeling can often add more value than a home renovation, as you will see in the sections below.

What Does Home Remodeling Mean?

Our first look into the differences between a home remodel vs. renovation focuses on remodeling. Here, you may be altering the design or structure of your home. Remodeling can also mean changing the purpose of a room, such as making a bedroom into an office or a den into a movie room.

Home remodeling projects often cost more than renovations. They are typically more complex in design and may require changes in plumbing, electrical, or construction elements. Permits are often necessary for remodeling.

Often called a home renovation loan, borrowing money can help you complete a remodeling project that can improve your current home. That is often a factor for people contemplating the decision of a remodel vs. move. They find it economically beneficial to improve their existing home rather than to upgrade to a new home.

Some types of home remodeling include:

  • Tearing out or building a wall to change the dimensions of a room
  • Adding on new space, whether a second floor or new room
  • Expanding the size of an existing room or reconfiguring its shape or layout
  • Changing the position of appliances, cabinets, and sinks
  • Altering the purpose of a room

What Does Home Renovation Mean?

Next up in our look at remodel vs. renovation, we focus on the often-simpler aspect of renovating a room or home. Some renovations may require the pulling of a permit, which your contractor will handle. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, please familiarize yourself with how to renovate a house to avoid any problems in your city.

Renovation changes or updates the feel and look of a room or home, without altering its purpose. For example, when you renovate a bathroom, it is still a bathroom. You have just changed how it looks through upgrades.

Here are some common types of home renovations:

  • Installing new flooring or lighting
  • Painting
  • Changing cabinets or knobs (without altering the current kitchen design)
  • Putting in new faucets or a new sink
  • Replacing rotting wood

As you can see, when looking at a remodel vs. renovation, it can be more costly and time-consuming for a renovation, but it can change the functionality of your home.

Remodel vs. Renovation vs. Relocation

If you are trying to decide between upgrading your home or moving, please check out our other blog, remodeling vs. relocating.

Whether contemplating a renovate vs. remodel of your current property, HK Interiors can help you transform your home or office into the vision you desire. Call 954-401-8542 today for more information.

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