Renovation vs. Remodel: Which Is More Expensive?

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Get Smarter On Architecture and Design

Get the 3-minute weekly newsletter keeping 5K+ designers in the loop.

Enter your Email to Sign up

Side-bar-footer-forum

When purchasing a new home, many first-time homeowners feel compelled to upgrade or modify some aspects in order to personalize it. Depending on the condition of your property, you may find that it is necessary to renovate or remodel. Understanding the differences between renovation and remodeling will assist you in determining which is most suited to your present needs and goals.

Regardless, learning more about what each entails is always beneficial. Understanding the definition of each term, for example, will be useful when speaking with a professional about home improvement. Furthermore, knowing what you need and the cost of house renovation vs. remodeling will help you create a strong plan for your goal.

Remodel vs. Renovation: The Key Difference

Home's Structure

Image Credits: listwithclever.com

Renovation and remodeling have various meanings. And, while it may not matter how interchangeably you use the two words with friends and family, it is critical to be explicit when working with a contractor. As a result, let us compare renovations and remodelings to help you decide which is ideal for your needs.

Renovation Explained: 

Renovation entails making repairs and upgrades to vital aspects of the area without entirely replacing the structure. It alters the appearance of the area while maintaining its original purpose. Changing the appearance of your walls might be considered improvement; simply seek up some bedroom accent wall ideas.

Home Renovation

Image Credits: fmr.com.au

Instead of demolishing and starting over, a renovation involves updating certain aspects of the space without affecting the existing framework. For example, a bedroom remains a bedroom, while the kitchen remains the same; no room is moved from its original location. Renovation alters the main features of a home without altering the layouts or designs of individual rooms.

Renovation also entails installing new flooring and cabinetry, repainting, and replacing items like as doors, faucets, knobs, and light fixtures. You can also modernize your kitchen by adding new countertops or building an island if you don’t already have one.

Remodeling Explained:

Remodeling is opting to pull down walls and change the form and structure of a room. Changing the structure of a room implies changing both the design and the functionality. As a result, remodeling is more labor-intensive than renovation.

Home Remodeling

Image Credits: buildsafe.com

Remodeling entails modifying your home’s framework and replacing it with a new one. For example, to create an open floor design without a wall dividing the kitchen and living room, you may need to demolish one. Alternatively, you might extend your bathroom or perhaps add another room. Essentially, renovation refers to the creation of a whole new structure.

Factors to Consider in Remodel vs. Renovation

Choosing between a renovation and a remodel might be a difficult decision. Depending on your preferences, an extensive makeover may appear essential, but an expert may suggest a minor renovation. Consulting a home-building professional can help you determine what is most suited to your needs. Also, spend time researching and gathering as much information as possible so that your selections are informed.

As a result, we’ve put together a few tips to help you understand what you should think about before making that critical decision.

Home Remodeling vs Renovation

Image Credits: drfbuilders.com

a) Budget

Consider how much you are willing to spend before embarking on any remodeling or renovation project. Your money may be the most important factor in determining how small or substantial your renovation will be. If you’ve recently purchased a property and need to update, examine how much extra you have and are prepared to utilize.

Whether you’ve lived in your home for a long time or you’ve recently purchased one, it’s critical to assess how much you’re prepared to give up to achieve your goals. Then, once you’ve decided on your budget, be sure to stick to it throughout your renovation vs. remodeling job.

b) Current Features

Before deciding between a redesign and a renovation, you should analyze your current layout and home features. What do you wish to alter, and what are you satisfied with? Then consider the elements you enjoy but would desire a more current appearance.

Kitchen Layout

Image Credits: forbes.com

The next step is to make an inventory, which will help you choose how big or little your update should be. Finally, take notes as you walk around your place; these will be useful when consulting a specialist.

c) Potential New Features

Allow yourself to picture what you want after being practical with yourself by recognizing what you have, what’s excellent, and what you’d like to alter. Revisit all of your notes to see what you felt needs to be improved. Do you require additional lighting? Or do you like a more modern atmosphere in your space? What you envision for your homes will help you better understand prospective features and how comprehensive a restoration or remodel may be required to realize them.

What Is the Cost of Renovation vs. Remodeling?

Fresh Look

Image Credits: houzz.com

The cost of renovation vs. remodel varies based on the scope of the project. Nonetheless, here’s how the two costs differ:

1. Cost of Renovation

Renovations are often less expensive than remodeling, but the scope of the renovation project determines the total cost. In addition, the materials you use will influence the ultimate cost; depending on how much they cost, you may wind up spending more money on your restoration than someone else. As a result, while rehabilitation projects are typically less expensive than remodeling, the cost of the materials utilized can be higher.

For example, installing new faucets or refacing cabinets will cost less than changing a guest bedroom into a home office—the details and requirements of turning the function of one room cause the price to go higher. Flooring is one of the renovation projects that could cost more if you don’t first understand the flooring remodel tips, ideas, & makeover cost.

DIY Friendly Bathroom

Image Credits: diybunker.com

 Things to Know About Renovating:

  • Because you are not interfering with the structure or framework of a room, renovation is generally cheaper.
  • Depending on the extent of the project, a permit may or may not be required.
  • Renovation doesn’t add to your home.
  • It doesn’t take much time to renovate a home.
  • Renovating offers DIY-friendly options because it only involves cosmetic changes.

2. Cost of Remodeling

Home-building professionals, such as electricians, architects, plumbers, and interior designers, are often required for remodeling projects, which are more complex than renovations.

Remodels frequently include wiring, rearranging plumbing and ducting, adding a kitchen island, and other tasks that require the services of these professionals. Nonetheless, the total cost of remodeling will vary according to the scope of the job. They also tend to be more expensive due to their increased complexity.

Home Construction

Image Credits: safeguardinspections.com.au

Things to Know About Remodeling:

  • Remodeling is more expensive and extensive.
  • Remodeling must involve changing your layout to give you extra rooms.
  • Though considered expensive, it is cheaper than buying a new home.
  • More often than not, many remodeling projects require a permit to proceed.
  • It is advisable to have an expert contractor when remodeling.

What About Return on Investment (ROI)? Renovating vs. Remodeling:

Major Changes

Image Credits: pinterest.com

When making major improvements to your house, it is always important to consider the financial implications. Smart financial selections are prudent if you don’t care how much you spend as long as you get what you want. Whatever the case, studying how to rebuild a home and the stages required will help you plan and save money.

Homeowners will frequently experience a higher ROI on renovation projects than they would on renovating. When it comes to ROI, renovation is a better option than remodeling because it is less expensive and requires only modest upgrades.

However, this is not to argue that renovating is not a viable option in all situations. We all have personal and distinct situations that may cause us to favor one thing over another. For example, if you had to select between buying a house and remodeling, you’ll notice that a renovation job will provide a higher ROI than purchasing a fully new property.

New Doors

Image Credits: pinterest.com

According to Remodeling magazine, a simple renovation such as replacing garage doors or upgrading the foyer will result in a 98% and 75% ROI, respectively. However, a full kitchen makeover will only yield a return on investment of about 50%.

Bottom Line

When it comes to upgrading or remodeling, cost, return, need, and want are all important considerations. These considerations will assist you in deciding which direction to pursue, taking into account the state of your home. The timing may not appear to be important, but it has a huge impact. You do not want to renovate or remodel your property just a few weeks before selling.

Your final goal for renovations vs. remodels will also have a substantial impact on what you get back in terms of value, function, or both. The main line is that your preferences will determine whether you choose a renovation or a remodel, so make it personal and plan intelligently!

Featured Image Credits: cossentino.com

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Related Articles
crop faceless construction workman laying bricks

How To Lay Pavers For The Home

Pavers for outdoor spaces can change your garden, pathway, and open-air recreation areas into extraordinary areas that the whole family ...

Backyard Renovation Planning Checklist, Cost, & Step-By-Step Process

Backyards are gathering places of many American homes. Backyards are that open space in many Americans’ homes where people congregate. ...

How to Patch Drywall

How to Patch a Drywall in 5 Easy Steps to Make it Brand New

In this instructional guide on drywall patching, we will demonstrate how you can effortlessly mend the hole in your wall ...