Remodel vs. Renovate: What’s the Difference?

Aren’t They the Same?

We generally tend to use the terms remodeling and renovating interchangeably when talking about updating our homes. Did you know there are actually some key differences between the two terms?

As a matter of fact, it might not really matter which term you use when talking with friends or family about your plans to upgrade your home, but it’s still a great idea to get a little more specific with terminology when you’re talking to a remodeling contractor about how you want to upgrade your home.

The Difference Between Remodeling and Renovating

Remodeling is a bigger job that involves some construction and possibly changing the layout and purpose of a space.

Renovating is keeping the original room as intended while updating the finishes, a much smaller job.

As can be seen, the key difference really depends on how deep you expect your upgrades to go. With a renovation, you’re just updating the existing structure with some different looks such as different hardware or appliances. A remodeling job involves so much more like changing the structure of the space, requiring demolition, construction, and extensive designs.

A Remodeling Scenario

In a remodeling scenario, you’re going to change more. For example, let’s say you have a small guest bath that you’re thinking about turning into a full bathroom with a walk-in shower. This will involve moving and adding plumbing and wiring, taking down walls and adding new ones, and selecting new materials for the cabinets, countertops, plumbing fixtures, floors, backsplashes, tiles, glass, etc.

What to Know about Remodeling

• Remodeling can give you the layout and rooms you need.
• Remodeling can be cheaper than buying a new home.
• Remodeling will almost always require a permit.
• Remodeling should involve an expert contractor.
• Remodeling updates your home’s functionality.

A Renovation Scenario

Now let’s say you want to renovate that same small guest bath. In this instance, you would give it a new look by painting, replacing counters, cabinets, fixtures, etc. The pipes and walls will stay put, and the overall purpose and layout of the room won’t change at all.

What to Know about Renovating

• Renovating does not involve changing major structures or the purpose of a room.
• Renovating is more DIY friendly.
• Renovating can take less time.
• Depending on the renovation, it may or may not require a permit.
• Renovating won’t change the purpose of your room or add to your home.

So think about your home improvement plans. Are you remodeling or renovating?