What is it called when you remodel houses?

The words “renovate” and “remodel” are often used interchangeably when it comes to real estate, contracting, and interior design. The owner can hire an architect or designer to submit approved plans for the project. The person doing the remodeling must be a licensed contractor. Sometimes, a general contractor hires subcontractors for large projects.

Architects design some houses and remodeling projects, but most of this work is done by interior designers. Renovations can often be subtle, improving the existing building or house. Or they can be drastic, like a remodeling. Remember that construction involving renovation often refers to “restoring” or “repairing” an existing structure, replacing the old one with the new one.

If you are looking to make renovations and transform your old house into a more modern style, then you are in the process of renovation. Conservationists and purists of old houses are not big fans of this term, since renovation usually involves removing the original charm and character of the old house. Solvent-based paints are rarely used in remodeling and home construction projects now because other, safer products have been developed. However, some renovations require a home remodeling architect trained for design and technical services.

If you have the skills, time, and desire to make an improvement to your home yourself, consider renovating rather than remodeling. Remodeling Magazine publishes an annual cost-value analysis for common home improvement projects, noting that renovation projects, such as replacing a front door or garage door, or residing a home, will generate approximately 75 percent, 98 percent and 76 percent to the homeowner percent ROI, respectively, when you sell a house. If you are about to undertake a home remodel but have problems with unknown terminology, this dictionary of terms is for you. If you've started gutting, adding or removing walls, raising ceilings, or expanding the square footage of your home, you've crossed the remodeling territory.

However, remodeling doesn't always have to involve major structural changes; it can be something as simple as converting a guest room into a home office. In the remodeling plans, the original design of the house is labeled as existing conditions to distinguish it from the proposed renovations.