renovaci

Renovation, in many languages including Czech and Slovak where it is written as renovace, is the process of improving an existing building or space through repairs, upgrades, or refurbishment. Renovation can range from cosmetic updates to major structural changes and differs from restoration, which aims to preserve or return to a previous state, and from new construction.

Types and aims: Cosmetic renovation focuses on appearance and interior finish; structural or major renovation changes structural elements, layout, or services; energy retrofit upgrades energy efficiency; accessibility improvements; historical renovation preserves or adapts heritage features.

Process: Initial assessment, scope definition, budgeting, obtaining permits, selecting contractors, scheduling, execution, quality control, compliance with codes, and final handover. Planning should consider downtime, safety, waste management, and potential disruptions to occupants.

Regulation and sustainability: Renovations must comply with building codes, zoning, and safety regulations; permits may be required; waste handling and asbestos abatement may apply. Increasingly, renovations pursue energy efficiency, water conservation, and materials sustainability, with certifications such as LEED or BREEAM in some regions.

Impact and economics: While renovations incur upfront costs, they can improve property value, comfort, and energy savings. The decision to renovate versus build anew depends on condition, budget, and long-term plans. In historic cities, renovations balance modernization with heritage preservation.