You look around your house and wonder if it’s time for a change. Maybe the kitchen feels outdated, or the bathroom could use some work. But how do you know when a remodel is really necessary versus just nice to have?

Many homeowners face this same question. With Americans spending about $20,000 on home renovations in 2024, according to industry data, it’s important to know when to invest in your home. Working with experienced Remodeling Contractors Loveland CO can help you make the right choice for your situation.

This guide will help you spot the clear signs that your home needs work and understand when remodeling makes the most sense.

Why Homes Need Remodeling

Your home changes over time. Parts wear out, styles become outdated, and your needs shift. According to research, the typical home in America was built in 1979, which means many houses are over 40 years old and showing signs of age.

Remodeling isn’t just about making things look pretty. It’s about keeping your home safe, comfortable, and valuable. Sometimes you need to fix real problems. Other times, you might want to update things to fit your lifestyle better.

Clear Signs Your Home Needs a Remodel

Your Home Has Structural Problems

These are the most urgent reasons to remodel. When parts of your house are breaking down, you need to act fast. Look for:

• Cracks in your foundation or walls
• A roof that leaks when it rains
• Floors that feel soft or uneven
• Doors and windows that stick or won’t close right
• Water stains on ceilings or walls

These problems won’t fix themselves. They get worse over time and cost more to repair later. If you see any of these issues, contact a contractor right away.

Everything Looks and Feels Outdated

Walk through your home with fresh eyes. Does it feel stuck in the past? Some telltale signs include:

• Kitchen cabinets from the 1990s
• Bathroom fixtures in dated colors like pink or avocado
• Old carpet that’s worn or stained
• Popcorn ceilings
• Wallpaper from decades ago

Experts suggest remodeling kitchens and bathrooms every 10 to 15 years. These rooms work hard every day and show age faster than other spaces.

Your Home Doesn’t Fit Your Life Anymore

Your needs today might be very different from when you moved in. Common changes include:

• Your family grew and you need more bedrooms
• Kids moved out and you have empty rooms you don’t use
• You work from home now and need an office
• You care for an elderly parent who needs accessible features
• You just want more space to spread out

About 27% of homeowners remodel to upgrade worn materials, while 18% say they simply want a change. Both reasons are valid.

You’re Always Running Out of Space

Do you feel cramped? Does clutter pile up because there’s nowhere to put things? Storage problems are a big reason people remodel.

Signs you need more space:

• Closets overflow with clothes and shoes
• You have no place to store seasonal items
• Kitchen cabinets are packed tight
• You can’t find things when you need them
• Rooms feel too small for your furniture

A good remodel can add storage or reconfigure rooms to work better for you.

Your Energy Bills Keep Going Up

Old windows, poor insulation, and outdated HVAC systems waste money. If your utility bills seem high, your home might need efficiency upgrades.

Energy-efficient improvements pay for themselves over time through lower bills. About 19% of homeowners remodel specifically to improve energy efficiency.

Look for:

• Drafty windows and doors
• Rooms that are too hot in summer or cold in winter
• Old appliances that use lots of power
• Poor insulation in walls or attic
• An aging furnace or air conditioner

You’re Planning to Sell Soon

If you want to sell your home in the next few years, remodeling can increase its value. Data shows that certain projects return most or all of their cost.

For example:

• Garage door replacement returns 268% of the cost
• Steel entry door replacement returns 188%
• Minor kitchen remodels return 113%

Even if you’re not selling immediately, updates keep your home competitive with others in your neighborhood.

Rooms Don’t Connect Well

Does your home feel choppy? Maybe the kitchen is cut off from the dining room, or you have formal spaces you never use.

Modern homes flow better with open concepts. If your layout frustrates you, remodeling can fix it. You might:

• Remove walls to create open spaces
• Convert unused formal rooms into functional areas
• Add doorways to improve traffic flow
• Redesign the layout to make more sense

You See Safety Issues

Some problems put your family at risk. These need immediate attention:

• Old electrical wiring that causes breakers to trip
• Plumbing that leaks or backs up
• Mold or mildew from moisture problems
• Lead paint in older homes
• Asbestos in ceiling tiles or insulation
• Stairs without proper railings

Don’t ignore safety concerns. They can cause injuries or health problems.

The Home Doesn’t Match Your Style

You spend most of your time in your house. It should feel like yours. If you don’t like how your home looks and feels, that’s reason enough to remodel.

Your home should make you happy. Simple changes like new paint, updated lighting, or modern finishes can transform how you feel about your space.

How Often Should You Remodel?

There’s no single answer for everyone, but here are some general guidelines:

Every 5 to 10 years: Check if your home needs updates to match changing needs

Every 10 to 15 years: Consider remodeling high-use areas like kitchens and bathrooms

Every 15 to 20 years: Plan for major updates to the whole home

Every 20 to 30 years: Expect to replace big items like roofs and siding

Of course, your timeline depends on:

• How well your home was built originally
• How much wear and tear it gets
• How well you maintain it
• Changes in your family or lifestyle
• Your budget and goals

Questions to Ask Before You Remodel

Before you start tearing down walls, think through these questions:

What’s the main problem I’m trying to solve? Focus on your biggest issues first.

What’s my budget? Most homeowners spend between $20,000 and $25,000 on remodels. High-end projects can cost $140,000 or more.

How long will I stay in this home? If you’re moving soon, focus on updates that increase resale value. If you’re staying long-term, remodel for your own enjoyment.

Can I afford this now? About 54% of homeowners use home equity loans to pay for remodels, while 29% use savings.

What’s urgent versus optional? Fix safety issues and structural problems first. Cosmetic updates can wait.

Do I need permits? Major work usually requires permits and inspections.

Should I do it all at once or in phases? Phasing spreads out costs but may take longer and cost more overall.

Remodel Versus Moving

Many people wonder if they should remodel or just move. Here’s how to decide:

Remodel if:

• You love your location and neighborhood
• Moving costs more than renovating
• The housing market is expensive
• You can’t find what you want in your price range
• Your home has good bones and just needs updates

Move if:

• Your home has serious structural problems
• The cost to remodel exceeds the home’s value
• You need to relocate for work or family
• You want a completely different type of home
• The neighborhood no longer fits your needs

Interestingly, 63% of homeowners prefer to remodel rather than move. High home prices and mortgage rates make staying put more attractive.

Common Remodeling Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from others’ experiences. About 74% of homeowners have regrets about their renovations. Common mistakes include:

• Going over budget: About 78% of people spend more than planned. Set aside extra money for surprises.
• Ignoring hidden problems: When you open up walls, you might find issues like bad wiring or water damage.
• Choosing trendy over timeless: Very trendy designs feel dated quickly.
• Poor planning: Know exactly what you want before work starts.
• Hiring the wrong contractor: Get references and check licenses.
• Living through major construction: Consider staying elsewhere during big projects.

When to Call a Professional

Some projects need expert help. You should hire professionals for:

• Structural changes like removing walls
• Electrical and plumbing work
• Roofing and foundation repairs
• Major kitchen and bathroom remodels
• Anything requiring permits

About 91% of homeowners hire professionals for remodeling projects. Experts have the skills, tools, and knowledge to do the job right.

For smaller projects like painting or simple updates, you might handle them yourself if you’re handy.

The Bottom Line

Your home tells you when it needs work. Listen to those signs. Structural problems, outdated features, poor function, and changing needs all point to remodeling.

You don’t have to do everything at once. Start with what matters most: safety issues, urgent repairs, and changes that improve your daily life.

Remember, your home is your biggest investment. Taking care of it through smart remodeling protects that investment and makes your life better. Whether you tackle one room or transform your whole house, remodeling can give you the home you deserve.

When you’re ready to start, work with experienced contractors who understand your vision and budget. They can help turn your house into the home you’ve always wanted.