Refurbish, renovate, modernize - the differences simply explained

Renovation, renovation and modernization are often used synonymously.

All three terms relate to changes to a residential property. Nevertheless, there are subtle differences. Here is a small overview.

Renovation

When renovating a building, the focus is on repairing the building fabric. It is about eliminating existing damage, renewing outdated building technology and restoring the usability of the property.

The refurbishment includes extensive repair and modernization measures. Examples of this are the renewal of the heating system, the electrics, the sanitary facilities as well as the insulation and the outer facade. In addition, fire protection measures, improving energy efficiency through insulation and creating barrier-free access can also be part of a renovation.

The aim of comprehensive renovation is to extend the life of a building, increase living and usage comfort and reduce energy consumption. In this way, a refurbishment can maintain or even increase the attractiveness and value of a property.

Renovation

The renovation of a house or an apartment has a stronger design focus compared to a mere repair or maintenance. Renovation is not just about eliminating damage or defects, but rather about improving the external appearance as well as the comfort and quality of living overall. Floors, walls, windows, doors and stairs are often renovated or even completely renewed during a renovation.

Renovation can also include partial wall demolition, repartitioning or remodeling of individual rooms or the entire living space. In addition, electrical and sanitary installations are often overhauled or modernized, and heating and ventilation systems are brought up to the latest state of the art.

In contrast to mere repairs, a renovation often has a stronger design claim and leads to a more modern, open and comfortable living space. In addition, a high-quality renovation increases the value of a property considerably, which is an important argument for a renovation for many owners.

Modernization

A comprehensive modernization aims to adapt a building to the current technical standard and to use modern building materials as well as heating and energy systems.In the case of a fundamental modernization, the roof and facade are often redesigned in addition to the heating and plumbing, walls are insulated and windows are replaced. In addition, electrical installations can also be renewed, bathrooms and kitchens renovated and floors and ceilings renovated in a modernization.Overall, comprehensive modernization aims to bring an existing building up to date with the latest technology and to significantly increase its energy efficiency and living comfort. Through the use of modern technologies and materials, a building should be used for as long as possible and brought into a contemporary condition.Such an intervention therefore contributes significantly to maintaining the value and extending the lifespan of real estate.

Conclusion: Difference between refurbishment, renovation and modernization

• Renovation: Repair of damage and renewal of outdated technology to restore usability. Includes repairs and modernizations such as renewal of heating, electrical, plumbing, insulation and facade. The aim is to extend service life, increase comfort and save energy. Increases value and attractiveness.

• Renovation: Design focus to improve the appearance and living comfort. Renovation of floors, walls, windows, doors and stairs. Partial demolition, redistribution, transformation. Renewal of electrical and sanitary installations as well as heating/ventilation. More modern, open, comfortable living space. Significantly increases value.

• Modernisation: Adaptation to the technical standard and use of modern building materials and energy systems. Redesign of heating, plumbing, roof, facade. Insulation, window replacement. Renewal of electrical installations, renovation of bathrooms/kitchens, renovation of floors/ceilings. Brings buildings up to date with the latest technology and significantly increases energy efficiency and comfort. Contributes to maintaining value and extending service life.