RESTORATION
Restoring a structure, to put it simply, is to repair and keep the original form of the structure, design and even materials. Restorations are best when you want to keep the original structure intact and are often necessary when dealing with heritage listed properites. Restoration home improvement projects occur typically because of damages from aging materials or new buyers wanting to retun a house to it's original condition. Antique structures benefit from restoration projects best.
Some basic restoration projects include:
- Exterior Cladding Repair
- Flooring Resurfacing
- Painted Surfaces
- Woodworking
- Antique Hardware
Budgets
A restoration can be the most cost effective method to fix repairs, where the original material is easy to source and easy to replace. However, in the case of antique materials, spending the time and money sourcing items to match the original décor and design elements can be both time consuming and expensive.
Advantages
Certain home improvement projects like refinishing fine woods or resurfacing cabinetry benefit from restoration. A few advantages of restoration include:
- Money Saving Home Improvement
- Design and Décor Themes are Maintained
- Some Restorations are Completed Quickly
Disadvantages
Renovations also have their disadvantages as well. Problems can occur before, during and after the renovation. Here are a few disadvantages to be aware of when you’re deciding whether to renovate or restore:
- Hidden Damage May be Uncovered
- Maintenance Issues can Cause Further Expense
- New Materials Might be Best for the Overall Design
- Old Material may be impossible to find or very expensive
RENOVATION
To renovate any area in the home requires removal and disposal of the previous material, followed by the replacement of said material with a new material. Depending on whether house is being increased demolition and excavation may be needed. Renovations are usually undertaken to update areas within the open, to create an open plan living space and/or to increase the size of the existing house. A few renovation home improvement projects include:
- Roofing Renewal
- Bedroom Extension
- Window Replacement
- Bathroom Makeover
- New Kitchen
Budgets
Renovations are typically on the higher end of the budget scale when compared to restoration costs. But sometimes when restoration may seem to be the cheapest alternative, overall costs through constant restoration of an inferior material or design can outweigh the costs of the initial renovation. Always factor in lifetime maintenance costs when deciding whether renovation or restoration is more budget friendly to your home improvement project. Also, take into account the added value to your home, as a renovated home could increase more in value than a restored home due to a large in increase in living space.
Advantages
Renovation advantages are many and varied. Here are a few examples to help you decide whether renovation or restoration is right for your home improvement project:
- Restoration is not Possible
- New and Improved Materials and Design are available
- Current Building Codes can to be adhered to
- Extra Space is Required
Disadvantages
There are also disadvantages to renovation when compared to restoration projects. Use these examples to help you understand both sides of renovation:
- Costs are Often Higher
- Renovation can take longer as Council Approvals are needed
- Ambiance and Antiquities could be Lost Forever
- Renovations may be prohitbited in Heritage areas
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