Commercial and residential buildings are significantly different types of buildings in construction for many different reasons. How the two are normally constructed is different, as are the laws that regulate their constructions. For this reason, residential and commercial renovations are also different in certain aspects.

Differences and Similarities

Commercial buildings or properties are typically used as factories, medical facilities, retail spaces, educational facilities, and offices, to name just a few. For this reason, they usually have ladders for roof access to facilitate easier repairs. They also have various safety feature installations to ensure the safety of the workers and customers.

On the other hand, residential properties are usually built for people to live in them. Many houses have many different sizes and shapes, townhouses, apartments, and other types of houses are generally categorized as residential buildings. The only similarity between the two types of buildings is that their construction and renovation have to be under statutory regulation.

Here is a look at a few of the differences between residential and commercial remodeling for a better comprehension of the two.

Residential Vs. Commercial Building Materials

Both building designs use different building materials. This means each of them requires different remodeling materials in terms of both quantity and quality.

Commercial buildings are usually designed architecturally. This means they require complex construction materials such as concrete and steel. These materials ensure the building is durable and strong and explain why they require huge investments, even when renovating them. The more intricate the building plans are, the more remodeling materials will be used. This is especially true in large, multi-floor commercial buildings.

On the other hand, remodeling a residential building is less complicated and not as expensive. Most residential houses have timber frame construction. Timber offers ample structural stability for a medium-sized residential house and is quite affordable too. This translates to less time and cost of remodeling compared to commercial buildings.

Residential Vs. Commercial Remodeling Costs

The cost of remodeling a commercial building is substantially higher than a residential structure. This is true even though they may be comparable in size. The difference in cost is not only due to the materials used but also the compliance standards, equipment, labor, general liability insurance, and overhead costs.

Remodeling commercial buildings require hiring or buying specialized equipment and a lot of workers. Many of these projects are very costly and are typically funded by wealthy owners, government agencies, corporations, and other financially well-off entities.

The residential renovation project on the other hand is significantly cheaper. Homeowners simply save up for the home project or take a soft loan from the bank. Commercial property remodeling must also accommodate the diversity of the tenants in the building since different businesses might end up in the same building.

Taking too long to complete the renovation might impact the businesses negatively cost both tenant and landlord time and money. In a residential setup with a single family, the homeowner need be only concerned with themselves. The cost does not change much since it does not take long and he or she has the freedom to do whatever they want.

Residential Vs. Commercial Remodeling Permits

For new constructions, both a residential and commercial building project requires a permit and must comply with the building code requirements. However, commercial property regulations are usually stricter and greater than residential construction. Additionally, other rules also apply to ensure the buildings’ safety levels are satisfactory. The regulations address aspects such as:

• Plumbing systems
• Electrical systems
• Design
• Size
• Construction projects techniques
• Construction materials

The home remodels requirements in Idaho Falls, ID tends to be less. However, it does not mean they are less important. Some of the projects that require a permit include:

• Structural Modifications – Remodeling that involves adding or removing a wall, porch, deck, or turning your attic into a living space requires a permit. This is because they involve altering the structural layout of your house.

• Electrical and Plumbing Replacements – Minor changes like new light fixtures and bathroom remodeling such as faucets do not require a permit. However, if you are replacing or installing new wiring, pipes, or adding new wires, you need certified general contractors and a permit.

• Specific Window Sizes – If your project involves installing bigger windows, you will require a professional general contractor and a permit. This is because it involves cutting holes on the wall to fit them.

• Remodels and Additions – Most remodeling projects involve structural alteration. Furthermore, any such projects costing over five thousand dollars require a permit in Idaho. An exception applies to carpeting, painting, wallpaper, and sheds measuring less than two hundred square feet. However, the rule applies to detached garages, sheds, decks, mother-in-law cottages, patios, and platforms.

Home remodeling projects that do not require permits in Idaho include:

• Installation of new floors (carpet, vinyl, hardwood, laminate)
• Landscaping work
• Installation of new faucets, toilets, showerheads, and new countertops on existing counters
• Installation of new light fixtures
• Wallpapering and painting

For commercial buildings, the complexities faced are much greater. For instance, you need permits for developing garages and parking lots, elevator permits, and more complex aspects such as additional wiring for internet connectivity and other electrical remodeling needs.

Due to these great complexities, the permits and codes for commercial properties are stricter than residential buildings. They also have more scrutiny regarding pollution regulations than residential properties.

Contact the Remodeling Experts for your Home and Commercial Remodeling in Idaho Falls

Commercial buildings have greater variations than residential properties. Whether you want to undertake a residential or commercial remodeling project in Idaho Falls, look no further. Remodel Professions of Idaho are the leading experts in the region and we have verified reviews to this effect.

We have the experience, expertise, and equipment to carry out your tenant improvements and commercial remodeling. We are a licensed and insured company with a passion for offering quality service and customer experience at very competitive prices.

We have immersed a lot of experience offering the residents of Idaho Falls and the surrounding area with services such as:

• Commercial remodeling
• Home remodeling
• Basement finishing and remodeling
• Kitchen and bath remodeling

For more on commercial and home remodeling, visit Remodel Professionals of Idaho at our office in Idaho Falls. You can also call (208) 314-9839 for a free estimate or to book an appointment today.