Chances are if you've ever discussed making updates to your home, then you've used the words "renovation" and "remodel" interchangeably without thinking twice. It's easy to see why, the two words not only sound similar, but it seems like almost everyone else also uses each synonymously too. However, when discussing a renovation vs. remodel, there are distinct differences between the two words. If you have any plans to tackle big projects around your home or get a contractor or designer involved in changes, then you'll appreciate understanding the distinction between each one.

Renovation vs. Remodel: What Are the Big Differences?

Let's highlight the biggest factors that set a renovation apart from a remodel.

When You Change the Purpose of a Room

There are certain projects around the home where you are refreshing or enhancing the space by updating elements of the room, however, you're keeping the overall function the same. When the function or purpose of a room stays the same, then it's considered a renovation. An example of a renovation is installing a new shower in your primary bathroom or changing out the countertops and lighting in your kitchen.

A remodel occurs in a couple of situations. It's a remodel when you change the purpose of a room, such as converting an attic space to a guest bedroom. It also occurs when you make structural changes altering the function, such as reconfiguring the primary bath to include a closet and a bathtub when these weren't included in the space before.

The Cost Associated With Each

For the most part, a renovation will likely cost less than a remodel. The cost of a renovation can range from less than a hundred dollars, such as if you're refreshing with paint or wallpaper, to thousands, like when you update countertops and flooring. A renovation doesn't have to cost a fortune, but the budget is widely varied.

A remodel will be more expensive than a renovation, especially if adding on to the existing square footage or making any structural changes. Unless you're an experienced DIY expert, you will likely contract out most services, such as with a general contractor or a designer, which adds to the budget.

A Renovation Typically Involves More DIY

Speaking of DIY, there are an enormous amount of renovation projects around your dwelling space you can do yourself. Projects such as tiling, putting down new flooring, or swapping out a light fixture are all examples of renovation projects homeowners tackle themselves on a daily basis. A renovation offers plenty of opportunity for someone to do as many projects themselves as they want.

Remodeling is less DIY-friendly. Again, unless you're experienced with homebuilding, you will likely be calling in the professionals to demo, move plumbing and fixtures, hang drywall, and other big tasks.

Additional Approval May Be Required

Chances are, a renovation will not require any approval in terms of permits for local building codes or if you live in a historical property, especially if your renovation involves simple updates on the inside of the home only. However, there are instances where you may need homeowner's association approval, such as with changing the color of the exterior of the home or replacing the roof.

Remodeling is much more likely to require a pulled permit. For instance, if you're adding on to your home or converting a space in the home to a legal bedroom, then you'll likely need a permit.

Renovation vs. Remodel: Final Thoughts

Whether you choose a renovation for cosmetic updates or need a remodel to bring your home into the 21st century, it's helpful to know the differences between these two types of projects so you can confidently converse with the professionals. And no matter what the scope of your renovation vs. remodel looks like, Wayfair has an abundance of products ready to help you tackle your home project list.

Written by Sara Coleman