You can use this guide to describe your home improvement projects accurately, with examples of typical home renovations and remodeling tasks.
It may seem unimportant to use "renovation", "remodeling", or "flipping" interchangeably when describing your project scope to contractors. However, this can be a big difference. There is a big difference between the terms "renovation", "remodeling" and "flipping".
Remodeling is a more detailed process than renovating. What is the real difference between these two seemingly similar terms? This guide will explain the differences between remodeling and renovation, as well as which option is better for your project.
What is the difference between renovating and remodeling?
Home remodeling is the process of transforming something old into something new. Renovation, on the other hand, is the act of transforming something old into something new. It all comes down to the goal of your project. You're renovating if you are simply updating your space with new fixtures and finishes.
If you want to remove a wall, rearrange your floor plan and add an extra bathroom, or closet, then you are remodeling.
House Renovation Process
Renovating a home is the process of updating a house's appearance while maintaining its layout and structure. You may have bought a house because you love the layout but can't wait until you can rip off the outdated wallpaper.
What is Home Renovation?
Renovate home is the process of restoring or refreshing a project back to its original state.
Renovations are generally easier to DIY than remodeling. Even beginners can do most renovations, such as painting, installing floors, refacing cabinets, and changing light fixtures.
Most DIYers are not equipped to handle tasks that fall under the remodeling category, like digging footings or re-framing a home, or rerouting electrical and plumbing in order remove walls. Renovations don't always require you to obtain a building permit. This may or may no necessitate the hiring of a contractor depending on local building codes.
Sometimes changing finishes calls for structural changes. If you want to replace laminate flooring with tile, for example, it may be necessary to reinforce the floor with beams or a subfloor. This will support the tile's weight and prevent the tile from cracking.
Renovation Tasks Examples
- Refinishing floor
- Paint
- Refacing cabinets
- Light fixtures can be swapped
- Updating plumbing fixtures
- Changing door hardware
- Add Trim
The Remodeling Process
The term remodeling refers to projects that involve reorganizing the property. You may want to add a bathroom or a sunroom, or expand your kitchen. It's remodeling, not renovation.
Additionally, remodeling covers major tasks like relocating infrastructure--things like adding or replacing electrical wires and breakers, redoing your plumbing to get the freezing water lines out of a drafty attic, or adding central AC to a historic home. You may need to get a permit for these tasks or consult your local authorities, especially if you are working on a historically registered property.
What is remodeling?
Remodeling is the process of restructuring or radically altering an existing project.
Remodeling Examples
- Remove walls
- Changing floor plans
- Add central AC
- Additions to existing buildings
- Basement finishing
- Addition of a second level
- Build a patio or deck
- Addition of a Bedroom Suite
Remodeling vs Home Renovation Costs and Values
Renovations are generally less expensive than remodeling. Refacing cabinets or updating plumbing fixtures cost less than structural modifications like knocking down walls or adding beams. After structural changes, you will still need to spend money on new fixtures and finishes, so it's essentially a remodel followed by a renovation.
Many remodeling costs are hidden. Budgeting for renovations is easier. Remodeling can be more complicated than you think. If you remove a wall to add an island to a kitchen or dining room, it's likely that there are hidden electrical wires, water pipes, and ductwork.
After the wall has been removed, these things will need to be rerouted. This is a big process and can take a long time. You also have to consider the fact that the wall may be load-bearing, and you will need to replace it with a beam.
House Renovation project often has a better return on investment than remodeling because less money is invested upfront. Renovations make a home look updated and ready to move in, which makes it more appealing to buyers.
It is still often the case when remodeling a home, but it takes more money. Although nice, projects such as enlarging the kitchen or opening up the floor plan may not always pay off at sale time.
Be on the lookout when home shopping for substandard renovations. Flippers are aware of what buyers want and often make quick updates to houses to make them more attractive. They will also skimp on structural improvements. Before closing, we recommend a thorough inspection of the home.
Remember that most renovations and remodels are not profitable. National averages indicate that only a very small percentage of home improvements recoup 100 percent or more of their initial investment. The actual return on investment is dependent upon many factors, including:
- Investment cost
- Location
- Markets
- Project Scope
DIY renovations are more cost-effective than remodeling jobs that require contractors.
Parceloop: A Seamless Remodeling and Permit Acquiring Process
Parceloop understands that obtaining a permit can be a time-consuming process. Our experts will take care of all paperwork, submissions and interactions with the local authorities. Our professionals know the local building codes and regulations. They will make sure that your project meets all safety and quality standards.
Parceloop will help you to navigate through the complicated remodeling and permitting processes. Parceloop will help you make your renovation dreams a reality. You will be guided by our expertise, reliability and passion to deliver outstanding results.