remodel vs renovation

Remodel vs Renovation: What’s the Difference?

If you are thinking about making big changes to a bathroom or kitchen, you may browse the internet and apps like Pinterest to find some amazing ideas. You want a fresh look for your place. In this planning, the words “remodel” and “renovation” come up a lot. 

They can confuse some people as they appear to be very similar. However, they have some notable differences. It’s necessary to know the difference, so you can prepare for the project you really want.

Let us clear up kitchen and bathroom renovation vs remodel. You will not end up swapping the wrong term or spending money on the wrong project. Once you get the lingo of kitchen and bathroom remodeling, you can decide what matches your requirements. 

What is a Bathroom Remodel?

A remodel means you are making a massive change. The work is not limited to the surface items such as tiles or paint. Here are some examples: re-arranging the plumbing system or moving the walls. It can totally change the look of the bathroom. 

How a Bathroom Remodel Works?

A bathroom remodel will redesign the bathroom to make it as you desire. You can make it more modern or give it a spacious layout. Here are the main ways the remodel team does that:

  • Moving the layout: You may want to shift the sink to the other wall or replace the old school bathtub with a shower area. It is done for your comfort or to give the room a spacious look.
  • Custom work: Some people don’t want stock cabinets. They can build in shelves that fit the corner perfectly. You can ask for a double sink vanity that matches the mirror height. Some people want changes in the material, such as marble on the countertops or custom floor-to-ceiling drawers.
  • Updating the hidden stuff: If the brand-new tub you picked has jets, it needs extra plumbing. They will need a different kind of electrical circuit. New lighting over the vanity will require new circuits. This part will increase the cost and the complexity of the project. 

What is Bathroom Renovation?

Renovation is a lighter project that levels up your existing bathroom. You don’t have to break the walls. It does not involve massive changes, but the bathroom will still get a new look. 

Why Pick a Bathroom Renovation?

People mostly go for bathroom renovations rather than complete remodels. It is because of the low costs and short project times. It will not disturb your routine as much as a remodel. A few things people ask for include:

  • Swapping out fixtures: Are you inspired by the Pinterest lighting or the trendy mirrors? These small changes will make the room look like the cover of a magazine. You will love taking mirror photos here. 
  • Updating surfaces: Do you want to get rid of the old tiles? You can change the floor or add a new coat of paint. These changes cost less, but the impact they make is impressive. 
  • Updating appliances: Sometimes, the bathroom fixtures can look very old-school. They just need a simple update, and it will give a modern look. You can get a modern shower head or a new faucet. These modern appliances will also cut down the utility bills.

What is a Kitchen Remodel?

kitchen remodeling is similar to a bathroom remodel. It has huge changes, such as a change in the layout or the position of windows. 

People choose this when the old kitchen feels cramped or outdated. Modern styles can change the entire layout to make it more comfortable.

Features of a Kitchen Remodel

Here are some examples of remodeling:

  • Changing the layout: This is the most frequent cause of remodels. You may want to move things around for a better flow. Some people want to change the position of the sink or the stove to make the daily processes easier.
  • New cabinets and countertops: Are the old cabinets wearing out? If yes, you can ask for new cabinets and a beautiful countertop. You can find different kinds of custom cabinets and countertops. Ensure that they are stylish and durable. 
  • Major appliances: The old appliances used to consume massive electricity. However, modern appliances can lower your utility bills. The market is full of energy-efficient appliances that people can get in remodels. You can buy a modern fridge or dishwasher. 

What is Kitchen Renovation?

A kitchen renovation will improve the already present things. It will not change the floor plan. This is why renovation is cheaper and faster. Plus, it is far less disruptive than a remodel. The kitchen will get a change without a massive cost. 

What You’ll Do During a Kitchen Renovation

Here are a couple of the updates that fit in a renovation:

  • Refinishing cabinets: It means you will not buy new cabinets, but you will improve their finish. You will not change the walls, but you will give them new paint. It saves a lot of cash.
  • New countertops: perhaps, you want to get rid of the worn laminate. You can replace them with granite or marble. It can change the whole vibe. 
  • Replacing appliances: Are your kitchen appliances from the last decade? Kitchen renovation includes getting new and energy-saving models.

Remodel vs. Renovation: A Quick Comparison

AspectRemodelRenovation
ScopeMassive structural changesMinor changes
CostHigher Lower
TimeframeLonger durationShorter duration
Permits NeededOften requiredRarely required
DisruptionHighLow
Value Increase in home valueModerate increase 

Why Choose Tarzia Group for Your Project?

Tarzia Group is a professional home remodeling company you want to hire for any kind of kitchen or bathroom remodeling or renovation project. Our experienced crew listens to your desires. They will create a blueprint to show you how they work and how much time it will take.

With us, you’ll get expert hands that treat your home renovation and addition like their own expertise. We begin with a design chat and work all the way to hand you the finished space. Our crew takes care of all tiny details and makes sure everything is up to the standard you expect. We take every project as a chance to showcase our expertise. Write a message to get a free quote. We are available to help you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a remodel and a renovation?

Renovations include some minor surface-level changes, but a remodel involves structural changes to the layout. 

Is a kitchen remodel expensive?

The remodel includes big changes, so it will be expensive. If you don’t have a huge budget, you can get a renovation. 

How long does a remodel project take?

Remodel timelines depend on the complexity of the project. For a detailed guide, ask our experts.