Renovation Vs. Remodel: What’s the Difference?

While the two terms are often used interchangeably, there are significant differences between renovations and remodels. A renovation is DIY-friendly and is more about updating your space. A remodel is large-scale, consisting of knocking down walls, creating additions to your home, and more.

We’ve put together an easy-to-follow guide on what sets the two apart and how to decide which one is right for you.

Here’s the breakdown.

What’s a Renovation?

This is like giving your home a new outfit - it’s sprucing up your current space with quicker fixes like painting the walls or cabinets, swapping out light fixtures, or adding trim. Renovations are a great option for beginners if you like to DIY, plus, they don’t require permits.

What’s a Remodel?

Remodeling is all about creating something new from something old - knocking down walls, changing your home’s layout, creating additions like another bedroom or bathroom, finishing a basement, or adding central air.

Remodels usually need permits from the city and are not DIY friendly - you’ll need to hire a contractor. While they are a bigger investment, remodeling will let you customize your home exactly how you like.

Cost: Renovation Vs. Remodel

Let’s talk dollars and cents. Renovations are lighter on the wallet than remodels because you are working with what you already have. Replacing hardware and repainting are some of the simplest renovations. Remodeling costs more because it includes expenses like structural work, new materials, permits, and more.

Renovation and Remodeling Costs: Wallet-Friendly Updates

Renovations cost less because the focus is on cosmetic changes as opposed to structural. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you might spend on a renovation:

• Small projects: swapping out light fixtures, painting, replacing hardware, etc. This can cost an average of $100-$500.
• Moderate projects: refinishing floors, updating a bathroom, etc. This costs an average of $1000-$5000.
• Large projects: This includes new counters, appliances, etc. This costs an average of $5000-$30,000, depending on the scale of your project.

Remodeling involves more structural changes and more cost:

• Structural work: removing a load-bearing wall, etc. This can cost $5000 and up.
• Infrastructure changes: moving plumbing, updating electrical, or adding an HVAC system. This can add thousands to your project.
• Materials and Finishes: This includes counters, cabinets, and finishes after all the structural work. This work includes the cost of a renovation and a remodel.
• Permits and Professionals: Most remodels require permits, which can cost $500 to $2,000 depending on your location, plus fees for contractors and subcontractors.
• Learn more about the complete breakdown of remodeling costs here, along with how to remodel your kitchen in the correct order to avoid costly mistakes.

Hidden Costs to Look Out For

Look out for these hidden remodeling costs! (Pro tip: Add 10-20% to your budget to cover contingencies.)

• Removing a wall might reveal electrical wires, plumbing, or ductwork that need rerouting.
• Opening a floor plan could require reinforcing load-bearing structures.
• Historic homes may have more challenges, like outdated wiring or materials that aren’t up to code.

Renovations are easier on the wallet and less expensive up front, making them an excellent idea for quick updates. While remodels are more costly, they let you completely reimagine your space,- but you’ll need a bigger budget! For help getting started on your kitchen design, check out our top ten free kitchen design software recommendations!

Order your sample door to start rethinking your space and see how our cabinets and on-trend colors will look in your home.