Are Renovations and Remodels
DIY Projects?

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.

You Can Do Many Home Renovations Yourself

Renovations usually take less money and time. They often don’t require a lot of experience and a basic toolkit might be all you need. For example, a person with basic or intermediate DIY skills and tools can:

• Paint a room

• Upgrade cabinet doors and hardware

• Replace a kitchen faucet or bathroom faucet

• Replace door locks

• Install a new bathroom vanity

Some renovations, such as installing a new garage door or shingling a roof, are best for professionals. Your local codes may also dictate that a licensed professional handle some renovations.

Home Remodels Often Require a Professional

A full-scale remodel may involve:

• Demolition

• Moving load-bearing walls

• Running new plumbing or electrical lines

State and local codes usually require that a licensed professional does this work. And since remodeling is often a larger investment of time and money, it’s best for an experienced professional.

Tip

Don’t have time to do it yourself? Let Lowe’s Home Installation & Services handle your renovation or remodel. From installing a front door to installing a garage door and from bathroom remodels to kitchen remodels and more, let Lowe’s help with installations in your home.

Renovation Is Usually Less Expensive Than Remodeling

Cost is another difference between renovating and remodeling. Cost varies widely by location, the project and the materials. For example, replacing a roof — technically a renovation — will be significantly more expensive than simply converting a spare bedroom to an office, which is technically a remodel. Product demand and availability of materials are also factors in cost.

Renovation Cost

A renovation will often cost less than a full remodel. The cost range can be wide, however. Replacing all of your window blinds may only cost a few hundred dollars. Renovating a kitchen can cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.

Remodel Cost

A remodel, such as a home addition, can require more work and more materials, including:

• Lumber

• Sheathing

• House wrap

• Brick or siding

• Doors

• Windows

• Subflooring

• Flooring

• Drywall

• Trim

• Paint

Some projects also require an investment in electrical and plumbing changes as well as heating, cooling and ventilation upgrades. You often need to factor in the cost of permits and the expense of hiring professionals. Your expenses could range from tens of thousands to $100,000 or more.

Is Home Renovation or Remodeling a Better Investment?

As with project cost, ROI varies widely by location, project type and other factors.

Some Renovations Have a Relatively High ROI

Basic renovations that keep a home in top shape — for example, replacing a garage door, installing new siding, upgrading an exterior door to a high-grade steel model or installing more efficient appliances — can give you a relatively high ROI.

If you’re planning a larger renovation — like a kitchen remodel with new cabinets, countertops, flooring, appliances and lighting — you may have a harder time recouping the initial expense. However, you may find the improvement to your living space and the enjoyment you get from it well worth the cost.

Some Large-Scale Remodels Might Have a Lower ROI

In some cases, investing a lot of money in a bedroom or bath addition or enlarging your deck may give you an ROI that’s lower than more basic or functional remodeling. But, if the changes make life better for you and your family or make your home more pleasant, you may see them as a great investment.

Planning a Remodel Means Planning for Permits

The need for a permit depends on your local codes and the type of work, not simply whether you’re renovating or remodeling. Codes vary, so check with local building authorities for specifics on codes and permits for your area.

Many Renovations Don’t Require Permits

Simple renovations — for example, repainting, basic new flooring installations, replacing appliances, adding moulding — typically wouldn’t require a permit. If the renovation involves electrical or plumbing changes or if you’re installing new roofing, you likely need to get a permit and have the work inspected.

Most Remodels Require Permits

By the nature of the work in a remodel, you’re likely going to be making structural changes, as well as changes to wiring, plumbing, etc. that require permits and inspections.

Are Renovations Worth the Effort and Expense?

There are also some factors you need to be aware of so you can set the right expectations for a renovation.

Pros of Renovations

• A DIYer can often handle renovations; many are suitable for beginners and can boost experience and confidence.

• Many renovations don’t require licenses, permits or inspections.

• Renovations are usually less costly.

• Doing renovations yourself may require a sizable time investment.

• You might underestimate the experience, time, money and materials you need for the renovation.