Did you know that the words renovation and remodel are often confused with one another? That being said If you’re planning to have a home improvement project done at your property, it’s important that you know the differences between the two before speaking with the contractor.

First and foremost, both renovation and remodeling projects improve your home. There are a few key differences between the two. Let’s start with what renovation is. Renovation projects update both the look and feel of your space. This is also completed without changing the purpose of that structure or room.

For example, if you’re hiring a home improvement contractor to renovate your bathroom, it will remain a bathroom when the project is finished. That being stated, updates and repairs will be made to that bathroom. That may include painting the walls and ceiling, upgrading the plumbing fixtures and vanity, and installing a new floor to name a few. In addition, the renovation also includes structural-related projects such as replacing rotted lumber in the walls, floor, and or roof of your home with new, structurally sound wood.

On the other hand, with a remodel project, the design and oftentimes the structure is changed. In essence, when you remodel your home, both the design and functionality of a room or area in your home are altered. For example, removing a wall in between two small bedrooms in order to make one larger bedroom is a remodel.

Another example of a remodel project is reconfiguring the layout of a kitchen by moving the cabinets, countertops, and appliances to different areas of the room. Adding an addition to your house is also considered a remodel project.  So, which is more expensive, renovation or remodeling?

Remodeling projects are typically more expensive than renovation jobs. This is due to the fact that remodeling may very well include altering the structure of your property. That usually involves moving the electrical wires, ductwork, and plumbing, which are expensive line items due to their complexity. In addition, remodeling projects are usually more labor-intensive. However, some renovation projects can actually be more expensive than remodeling tasks if the materials being used are high-end.

For example, if you’re renovating your kitchen with custom-made cabinets, and the most expensive kitchen appliances and materials available on the market, it may cost more when compared to some smaller remodeling projects. Since renovating involves updating and repairing your property’s basic features, and also because it typically costs less money, you may see a better return on your investment compared to more expensive remodeling projects.

For more information about the difference between renovation and remodel, or questions about our design and build services, or to schedule an initial consultation in Connecticut or Massachusetts please contact us today at 860-341-6373. DBC Solutions takes great pride in providing the highest quality custom carpentry and contracting services in the home improvement industry. Our business model has been the same for 17 years. Doing things the right way the first time every time is the only way to do it.