Are you considering giving your home a fresh new look?

Whether it’s a kitchen makeover, bathroom upgrade, or whole-house transformation, you’ve likely come across the terms “remodel” and “renovation.”

While these words are often used interchangeably, there are differences between the two.

Not only does each one come with its own range of costs, time frames, and permit rules, but they may also differ in the value you’ll recoup from your investment.

Consider this blog post to make your decision and determine the scope of the project you choose as we are going to discuss in detail about these both terms.

What Is a Remodel vs. Renovation?

A remodeling project entails adding or constructing something new, such as tearing out and replacing the entire bathroom – tiles, shower, tub, toilet, and vanity. It involves demolishing and rebuilding the studs.

On the other hand, a renovation project is more focused on repairing or restoring the current state of the space, like painting a room, replacing wallpaper, or updating the faucet on an existing bathroom vanity.

Home Remodel Projects

Remodel projects have a larger scope and usually involve demolishing the existing space to make way for significant changes. They can include:

  • Enlarging a closet or room
  • Tearing down walls to create an open layout
  • Building an ensuite bathroom or home addition
  • Demolishing and rebuilding a kitchen or bathroom from scratch
  • Constructing a new deck or fence
  • Finishing an attic or basement
  • Adding an additional kitchen or bathroom

Home Renovation Projects

Renovation projects are generally more affordable and take less time because you’re working with the existing layout and features. Instead of tearing everything out, you’re updating and refreshing what’s already there. Renovations can involve:

  • Replacing cabinet hardware or light fixtures
  • Painting walls or removing ceiling textures
  • Installing a programmable thermostat or smart home features
  • Updating kitchen or bathroom faucets and fixtures
  • Replacing old wallpaper or door handles
  • Sanding and staining an existing deck or fence

While remodels involve significant structural changes, renovations focus on improving the current space without altering the fundamental layout. Understanding this distinction can help homeowners plan their projects effectively and set realistic expectations.

Remodel VS Renovation – What’s The Difference?

Here are the following pros and cons of both processes:

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Remodeling: Pros and Cons

If you’re looking to enhance the functionality and optimize the layout of your home, a remodel may be the ideal solution. However, it’s important to note that remodeling projects tend to be more expensive and take longer to complete compared to renovations. When undertaking a remodel, you’ll typically need to obtain a building permit, which adds cost to the overall project budget.

Pros

Cons
  • Opportunity for a complete transformation
  • Ability to customize layout and design
  • Increase home value and functionality
  • Address structural issues or outdated elements
  • More expensive than renovation
  • Longer project timeline
  • Higher costs due to extensive work
  • Longer duration, often weeks or months
  • Not DIY-friendly
  • Permits and inspections required

Renovation: Pros and Cons

Renovating offers an affordable and potentially DIY-friendly approach. While it won’t correct poor home design or address underlying structural issues, most renovation projects tend to provide a better return on investment (ROI) compared to remodels. This is because much of a remodel’s cost goes towards unseen structural changes hidden behind new finishes, which don’t directly impact visible improvements that drive up home value.

Pros

Cons
  • Cost-effective compared to full remodel
  • Shorter project timeline
  • Preserve existing layout and structure
  • Opportunity for aesthetic updates
  • Potential for DIY projects
  • Limited ability to change floor plan
  • May not address underlying issues
  • Design constrained by existing space
  • The resale value increase may be modest
  • Potential for inconsistencies with an original design

Remodel VS Renovation: Cost

Cost is a crucial consideration when deciding between a remodel or renovation. The overall expenses can vary significantly depending on your location, the specific project scope, and the materials you choose.

  • Remodel Cost: Remodels tend to be more expensive due to the extensive construction work, additional materials (framing, siding, drywall, etc.), potential system upgrades, permit fees, and contractor labor required. Remodel costs can quickly escalate from tens of thousands to over $100,000 for major projects like additions or complete overhauls.
  • Renovation Cost: Renovation projects, like painting, updating flooring, or investing in professional landscaping will cost about $15,000. Generally, renovations tend to be more cost-effective than full-scale remodels.
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Remodel vs. Renovation: Design

Design considerations play a significant role in deciding between a remodel or renovation.

  • Remodel Design: A remodel allows you to completely transform the layout and design of your living space. Contractors can demolish and reconfigure walls, expand rooms, and make significant changes to optimize functionality and flow. Remodels provide the flexibility to create open-concept layouts, incorporate modern elements, and customize the design to suit your lifestyle preferences.
  • Renovation Design: Renovations focus on enhancing aesthetics within the existing layout. They offer opportunities to refresh appearances through new finishes, fixtures, and color schemes while respecting the home’s structure. Renovations are ideal for revamping visuals without major structural changes but have limitations in altering the overall floor plan.

Remodel vs. Renovation: DIY

Knowing whether a renovation or remodel is a DIY project or a job for a pro depends on the work and the level of experience of the DIYer.

  • Remodel DIY: Home remodels are complex, involving structural changes like demolitions and updating key systems such as plumbing and electrical. Due to safety concerns and local regulations, these tasks typically require licensed professionals, making remodeling a significant investment of both time and resources.
  • Renovation DIY: Home renovations often consist of simpler tasks like painting, upgrading cabinets, and replacing faucets, which are well-suited for DIY enthusiasts with a basic toolkit. More involved renovations, such as installing garage doors or roofing, may need advanced skills or a professional, particularly if required by local codes.

Remodel vs. Renovation: ROI

The return on investment (ROI) is a measure of the amount of money you can expect get back when you sell the home. This is a key measurement to consider when deciding on the best upgrade for the home if you are thinking about selling in the near future.

  • Remodel ROI: Remodeling, which often involves significant structural changes and unseen improvements, may not visibly increase a home’s market value, potentially leading to a lower ROI. These changes enhance functionality but might not be immediately apparent to buyers.
  • Renovation ROI: Renovations usually focus on aesthetic updates that are immediately noticeable and can significantly boost a home’s appeal to buyers, typically resulting in a higher ROI. These projects are less costly and particularly beneficial if planning to sell soon. If selling is not a consideration, the financial returns from both remodels and renovations are less significant, shifting the focus to personal satisfaction.
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Remodel vs Renovation: Permitting

The need for permits and inspections is another difference. And, it depends on your local codes and the type of work, not simply whether you’re renovating or remodeling.

  • Renovation Permit: Aesthetic renovations typically do not require a building permit as they do not involve structural changes or additions to the home.
  • Remodel Permit: Remodeling, which often includes structural changes or new additions, usually necessitates obtaining a building permit from the local permit office before proceeding.

Remodel vs. Renovation: Timeline

Both have different deadlines, depending on how much remodel or renovation work is required in each project.

  • Remodel Timeline: Remodels, involving more extensive work, generally take longer, ranging from several days to months, depending on the scope. Professional contractors can often complete these projects faster than DIY renovations due to their expertise.
  • Renovation Timeline: Renovations, which typically focus on aesthetic updates, can be completed quickly, often within one to two days, especially if managed by a DIYer. Compared to remodels, renovations usually have shorter timelines.

LUX Construction Group – Ask Our General Contractors

Understanding the differences between a remodel and renovation is crucial when planning home updates. Remodels involve major structural changes, often requiring professional expertise and adhering to building codes. Renovations are smaller projects like painting or replacing fixtures, suitable for DIY with basic skills.

If you’re in the Los Angeles area and need a remodel or complex renovation, consider LUX Construction Group. Our experienced team handles residential and commercial remodels, renovations, room additions, outdoor living spaces, and custom home building. With quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, LUX Construction Group ensures your project is executed flawlessly while meeting all regulations.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to LUX Construction Group for a consultation and let our knowledgeable team assist you. We seamlessly blend functionality and aesthetics while ensuring compliance with all necessary regulations. Reach us today!