When you are considering a kitchen project, you may have found out that the terms Kitchen Remodel vs Renovation are used interchangeably. They don’t. The wrong words to use with a contractor can upset the entire budget, timeline and permit process — and on Long Island, where many older homes and building ordinances apply to the town-by-town requirements make it even more complicated.

This guide explains the actual differences between the two, why Nassau and Suffolk County are one of the few places where it makes much of a difference and how you can determine which one your kitchen’s really looking for.

What Is a Kitchen Renovation?

A renovation preserves the overall structure and design of your kitchen and emphasizes the improvement of existing features. Cabinets remain in their place, plumbing and electrical remain intact, and it’s about surfaces and finishes — new countertops, renewed cabinetry, new flooring, modern backsplash.

A renovation can be considered if:

• You’re using your space the way it is structured and it is effective for you.
• Your cabinets and storage are placed logically
• You’re looking for a medium price range and a definite time frame
• The kitchen area doesn’t look like it’s just plain old, it doesn’t look like it’s broken.

Renovations are quicker and less of a surprise since the structure itself is not changing. That’s why many homeowners seeking Kitchen Renovation Long Island NY are truly interested in a more expedient and non-disruptive means to modernize a working kitchen.

What Is a Kitchen Remodel?

A remodel does more. It alters the configuration of the room — moving walls, relocating the sink or island, opening up a galley kitchen to create an open concept design or changing out the plumbing and electrical to accommodate a new design.

Experienced kitchen remodelers Long Island NY homeowners trust usually recommend a full remodel when: 

• No matter how you rearrange the layout, it doesn’t look right
• You’re combining the kitchen with another room
• Additional storage, workflow, or systems are required
• You want to live in the layout and intend to stay there for many years.

Remodels are more expensive and more time-consuming, but they can fix an issue that a simple refresh can’t.

Why This Distinction Matters More on Long Island

One of the reasons that this decision is harder than it sounds is due to the housing stock on Long Island. Many homes were constructed decades ago and when a hole in a wall or floor is created, contractors often discover substandard wiring, antiquated plumbing or the need to install components that adhere to current building codes. An uncomplicated renovation can transform into remodel-level work, and cost.

You can avoid the frustration of a project that expands on mid-course and set a realistic budget if you know what you are getting yourself into beforehand.

Permits: Nassau County vs. Suffolk County

This is where Long Island really differentiates from national advice. There are no countywide permit requirements; they are handled on a town-by-town basis and many incorporated villages have their own building department and regulations in Nassau County.

The rule of thumb that works for almost every case: If you’re moving, installing or making major changes to your plumbing, electrical, gas or structural elements, you will require a permit. If it’s a cosmetic job, such as new paint, exchanged hardware, or a new countertop, then it’s probably not needed.

Permit fees can vary but generally range from a few hundred dollars to approximately $2000, depending on the municipality and the extent of work. Rules are also different from town to town so it’s best to check with your local building department and/or contact a contractor who is familiar with the building process in your area.

Cost Differences: Renovation vs. Remodel

The budget range is fairly extensive, depending on what you’re doing, but for Long Islander’s looking to get ahead, here’s a general view:

• Cosmetic renovation: Usually a lower level of renovations, such as new cabinets, countertops and fixtures, but no structural changes.
• Mid-range project: This involves something new on the cabinetry, new countertops and possibly some electrical or lightwork.
• Full remodel or gutwork: Reworking the layout, plumbing and electrical and is generally the highest dollar of the project.

Building codes and skilled trades demands on Long Island push up the costs of labor, which is already generally higher than the rest of the country. If you can get a clear, written estimate before work is done, you won’t have any surprises in your budget later.

Timeline: What to Expect

Generally speaking, renovations are faster since the structure remains the same – fewer permits, re-building, and demolition are needed. Remodeling is the longer of the two tasks because it will need the approval process and will require more work to be done by various trades such as plumbing and electrical.

When choosing which project to undertake, this time difference is sometimes just as crucial as the cost difference, if your family uses a working kitchen every day.

Resale Value: Does It Matter Which One You Choose?

Renovation and remodel can both add value to your home but in different ways. If you anticipate selling your home in the near future and are not planning to stay for extended periods, a kitchen renovation may suffice to make the home look updated and move-in ready. If the layout is poor — if for example buyers and appraisers notice that a kitchen is ill-organized, closed off, or awkward — it’s better if this is a factor in a full remodel.

The equation is not all about the mathematics of resale when you are staying in your home for the long-term.

How to Decide: Renovation or Remodel?

Before hiring a contractor, ask yourself these questions:

• Is my work arrangement good as is, or, is it never efficient?
• Am I updating surfaces or am I reaching to fix the operation of the room?
• Is more space or better flow or extra storage required?
• What is your realistic budget and timeframe?
• Do I need to sell soon or is it a longterm investments?

When it comes to your answers, most of them go to “the layout is fine, it just looks tired”, then a renovation will be your answer. If the room doesn’t fit your lifestyle, then you’re in need of a remodel. 

Get Expert Guidance for Your Long Island Kitchen

Each house on Long Island is unique and the best way to go will be determined by the age of your house, the rules of your town permit and how you utilize your kitchen day-to-day. We’ve assisted homeowners all over Nassau and Suffolk County with making exactly these kinds of choices, ranging from minor upgrades to complete renovations.

When it comes time to determine if the kitchen needs a facelift or a remodel, contact for a no-cost consultation. We will discuss your space, your goals, your budget and then give you a clear and honest answer before we do anything. 

Frequently Asked Questions