Renovating a House: What You Need to Know Before You Start

When you're renovating a house, the process of updating or rebuilding parts of an existing home to improve function, safety, or value. Also known as home remodeling, it's not just about making things look nicer—it’s about fixing what’s broken, upgrading what’s outdated, and protecting your biggest investment. Many people think it’s just about picking colors or swapping out cabinets, but the real work happens behind the walls—where foundations settle, pipes leak, and electrical systems age out.

One of the biggest mistakes people make is skipping the structural stuff. If your foundation, the base that supports your entire home’s weight and keeps it level. Also known as home footing, it has cracks or shifts, no amount of new tile will fix it. Foundation repair can cost thousands, but ignoring it can cost you tens of thousands in lost value. That’s why posts on this page cover everything from spotting bad cracks to understanding when it’s safe to DIY and when you need a pro.

Then there’s the bathroom renovation, a high-impact project that affects both daily comfort and resale value. Also known as bathroom remodel, it—a job that often gets rushed. People tile the floor first, then wonder why the walls look crooked. Or they skip permits, then can’t sell the house later. The right order matters: demolition, rough-in, waterproofing, tiling, fixtures, inspection. And it’s not just about bathrooms. Whether you’re updating a kitchen, adding a room, or converting a garage, the rules of construction types, how a building is built based on materials, fire resistance, and structural design. Also known as building construction classification, it still apply. Mixing wood and steel? You need fire separations. Adding a second story? Your foundation must handle the load.

And let’s not forget the money side. Renovating a house isn’t cheap. The most expensive fixes—foundation repairs, sewer lines, roof replacements—often come as surprises. But smart choices can save you thousands. Reusing materials, doing prep work yourself, timing repairs for off-season discounts—all these show up in the guides below. You’ll also find out how a well-done renovation can boost your home’s value, not just make it prettier.

What you’ll find here isn’t theory. It’s real advice from people who’ve been there: the contractor who fixed a sinking slab, the homeowner who saved $8,000 on a bathroom redo, the inspector who spotted a hidden code violation before it became a lawsuit. Whether you’re planning a full remodel or just fixing a leaky pipe, these posts give you the facts you need—no fluff, no sales pitch, just what works.