What is a renovation?
A renovation is the upgrading of an existing building so that it matches current standards again: functional, comfortable, safe and energy efficient. The word comes via French rénover from Latin renovare, to make new.
Renovation, restoration and maintenance
- Renovation (often called refurbishment in the UK) is about function: improving how the building is used. It may look different afterwards.
- Restoration is about preserving historic value. Original fabric and details take priority.
- Maintenance keeps the existing condition intact without upgrading it.
- Retrofit is commonly used for renovation aimed at energy performance.
| Renovation (often called refurbishment in the UK) | About function: improving how the building is used. It may look different afterwards. |
|---|---|
| Restoration | About preserving historic value. Original fabric and details take priority. |
| Maintenance | Keeps the existing condition intact without upgrading it. |
| Retrofit (term used within renovation) | Term commonly used for renovation aimed at energy performance. |
A renovation can also involve a change of use, for example turning a church or school into flats.
What a renovation typically includes
- Insulating walls, floor and roof, and replacing single or old double glazing.
- Upgrading fire separation between dwellings.
- Replacing ageing suspended timber ground floors with an insulated floor.
- Swapping a gas boiler for a heat pump, adding solar panels, new kitchen and bathroom.
Application: the right order of works
- Survey first. Have foundations, structure, damp and hazardous materials such as asbestos assessed before you design anything.
- Fabric first, then services. Insulation and airtightness reduce heat demand, and the heating system should be sized for that lower demand.
- Plan ventilation alongside. A more airtight building needs controlled ventilation to avoid condensation and mould.
- First fix before finishes. New pipes, cables and ducts go into floors and walls before plastering and decorating.
- Check consents. Changes to the exterior, extensions and listed buildings may need planning permission or other approvals. Ask your local authority.
Common mistakes
- Installing a new heating system first and insulating later, leaving it oversized.
- Insulating without a ventilation strategy or attention to thermal bridges.
- Applying for grants after work has started. Check the conditions beforehand.
Related terms
- Restoration
- Building maintenance
- Retrofit insulation
- Airtightness
- Energy label
- Renovation floor system
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