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What is the difference between a refurbishment and a renovation?

Many homeowners find themselves debating whether to refurbish or renovate their homes at some point. While both projects aim to improve the home, there are some key differences between a refurbishment and a renovation that are important to understand when deciding which route to take.
What is a Home Refurbishment?

A home refurbishment is typically a more surface-level refresh of the property. The goal is often to update fixtures, finishes and features to give the home a facelift and make it feel new again.

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Refurbishments may include things like repainting walls, replacing flooring, updating light fixtures, installing new cabinet hardware, replacing countertops, tiling a splashback, upgrading appliances, adding fresh curtains or blinds or tidying or updating the garden. The structural elements of the home, like the layout and footprint, usually remain unchanged.

A refurbishment allows homeowners to put their distinctive stamp on the home’s style and décor without making major structural changes. The process is generally simpler, faster and more affordable than a full renovation project.

What is a Home Renovation?

In contrast, a home renovation involves more extensive construction work to transform major elements of the home. Renovations may include knocking down walls, reconfiguring rooms, expanding the footprint with an addition of an extension, replacing major systems like plumbing and electrics, converting attics and basements into liveable spaces or putting in a new kitchen.

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Renovations may require permits and you may also need professional contractors to do the heavy construction work. For kitchen refurbishment Surrey, a specialist such as thekitchenrefurbishmentcompany.co.uk/ can breathe new life into your kitchen.

So in summary, a home refurbishment provides a cosmetic overhaul while renovations involve structural changes. The scope, cost and disruption are far greater for a renovation compared to a refurbishment.