Nashville Home Remodeling Experts Explain the Difference Between Remodels and Renovations

Have you ever wondered if there is a difference between a “home remodel” and a “home renovation?” Maybe you’re looking to expand or update your home soon, and you’re wondering which one you need.

In this blog, our Nashville home remodeling experts break down the differences between these two terms and what kind of home improvements each one encompasses. By the end of this post, you’ll know which one your home needs!

What Are the Definitions of Remodeling a Home and Renovating a Home?

Remodeling and renovating are popular activities for the modern homeowner, though the terms are often used interchangeably. It can be helpful to understand the distinction between these two activities in order to plan your update effectively.

In general, remodeling refers to changing the structure or function of an existing space. This could include moving walls, widening doorways, and significantly altering the way an area looks.

On the other hand, renovation revolves around “refreshing” a space by improving its aesthetic value—for example, by installing new floors, counters, or fixtures. Or perhaps you need to have your bedroom closets or walk-in kitchen pantry upgraded with new shelving. Maybe the mud room needs new cabinetry to keep things organized, or a home office needs better lighting. These would all be considered renovation jobs. 

Understanding this difference is essential in planning your own home project. It will help you make allocating your budget easier and ultimately put you on your way to creating a stunningly improved home.

Types of Renovations and Remodels That Increase the Value of Your Nashville Home

The most common home renovations in Nashville that can upgrade the value of your house include painting, upgrading flooring, updating and painting the master bath and family bathrooms, finishing the basement, remodeling and installing new kitchen cabinets and appliances.

Some more labor-intensive Nashville home remodeling updates include adding on a room, installing new flooring, building in a new wall to close off two separate rooms, and removing a non-load-bearing wall to convert two small rooms into one larger area.

Consider Your Goals Before Deciding Whether to Do Home Remodeling or a Renovation in Your Tennessee House

The ultimate goal of your home renovations in Nashville will determine whether you need a home remodeling job or a home renovation. Consider these common home improvement goals to determine which type of update your home needs.

More Space

TN home remodeling is often the go-to solution for those wishing to create more space in their home. You may choose to knock out a wall and add on an additional bedroom, playroom, or office.

However, this isn’t the only route you can take when considering remodeling. There are other options available.

For example, you could expand your kitchen to fit in more appliances, turn two rooms into one larger space, or convert part of the garage into a man cave or a section of the attic into a craft area. These are all great ways to maximize the existing space already in one’s home.

Basements are multi-purpose spaces that can provide not only a laundry area, but also a children’s play area, a second family room, and an additional bedroom/bathroom suite. 

Regardless of what area of the house is being changed or how it’s being used, remodeling is sure to provide some extra breathing room where you need it most.

Better Privacy

Home remodels are a great way to add more privacy in your home as well. One option is to create a wall to divide one large area into two distinct bedrooms. This can be especially helpful for growing families who need separate sleeping areas.

An alternative way to gain extra privacy is by converting an unfinished basement space into a bedroom. This update job involves building several walls and adding necessary fixtures like electricity, windows, a door, and other amenities necessary for comfortable living.

It can be a great idea both practically and financially—making better use of existing space while creating a much-needed private zone in the house.

Updated Style

If you’re looking to spruce up your home but don’t want to go all-out with a full remodel, then you may want to consider focusing on some renovation projects first.

For example, getting rid of old wallpaper, updating your flooring, or installing some new cabinets or cabinet fronts or even just hardware, can be classified as renovation jobs rather than remodel jobs—and they’ll likely cost you less than if you took on a big remodeling project.

Painting several rooms, such as your master bath, kitchen, family room and other rooms where you spend most of your time, can make a big difference in your home or condominium. 

It’s worth it to look into smaller individual updates like these since they can help improve the overall appearance and value of your home without requiring you to do anything that is time- or labor-intensive.

Knowing When to Renovate vs. Build New Construction

Knowing when to renovate versus build new construction can be an overwhelming decision. Every project comes with a different scope of work and cost. Consider your needs, budget, and timeframe to make the best decision.

If you’re looking to transform an older space into something unique and modern, it might be worth investigating what renovations are possible for the space. On the other hand, if you have the potential to customize your dream home with quality craftsmanship from scratch, building new construction with a Nashville home remodeling company could be the way to go.

It all depends on what you’re willing to put into the project and how much time you’re willing to commit. Make sure that whichever decision you make is feasible given your financial situation. Remember that full renovations can become more expensive than expected—potentially even more expensive than a new construction project!

However you decide to proceed, investing in quality contractors experienced in Tennessee home remodeling will save headaches and can ensure you receive your best return on investment.

Do I Need a Construction Permit to Remodel My Nashville Home?

Remodeling your Nashville home is an exciting project and a great way to increase the value of your property. However, before beginning any major remodeling projects, it is important to investigate the required permits that you may need.

In some cases, depending on the scope and size of your proposed update, you may need to acquire a construction permit from local officials in order to proceed with the project. If you are unsure whether or not a permit is necessary, it is always best practice to check with experienced contractors who can advise you on how to properly move forward with your update.

With the right information in hand, you will be well prepared to safely and successfully complete your Nashville home remodeling project. If you work with licensed contractors, then you won’t need to worry about getting a permit for yourself.

DIY or Hire Professionals in Middle Tennessee?

You might wonder whether to take on future projects yourself or call in a professional contracting service or company known for quality craftsmanship. Depending upon your motivation, schedule, skills, experience and willingness to learn, there are certainly things you can do yourself, like minor remodeling kitchen projects, or small updates to bathrooms, basements, or bedrooms.

However, there are some services that are perhaps best handled by a professional. Hiring an honest contractor or team of professional contractors is also a concern. Whether you’re gutting bathrooms or a kitchen or simply remodeling kitchen cabinets, you’ll want a professional who is concerned about detail, pays attention to quality, has integrity, and provides excellent service.

Consult With Velocity, Nashville Home Remodeling Experts, to Partner With You as Your Construction Contractor

If you’re looking for a trusted Nashville construction company that can take care of all your home remodeling and renovation needs – big or small – Velocity Construction is here to help.

Our incredible team of home remodelers in Nashville, TN is highly qualified with decades of experience in the industry, so they know exactly what it takes to make a home improvement project successful. 

We also offer competitive pricing, so you can rest assured that your budget won’t be strained. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us guide you through what we can do for your home renovations in Nashville! You won’t be disappointed.