Knowing how to renovate a house is far from simply making changes to the interior of the building. It’s an entire life project that must take shape through carefully calculated work. Whether you want to improve the insulation, remodel an aging kitchen, or rethink the entire interior of the home, each step requires careful consideration, anticipation, and the selection of appropriate materials. Home comfort depends as much on the quality of the work as on site management, whether it’s plumbing, landscaping, or an extension.
For homeowners, renovations represent a challenge, ranging from budget constraints to selecting quotes and coordinating tradespeople . Within the walls, every decision, from windows to decor, can have a direct impact on energy performance. This also applies to price, comfort, and daily well-being. Using wood, for example, can combine aesthetics with thermal efficiency.
By optimizing energy, interiors become more comfortable and durable. Financial assistance is available to support energy renovation efforts, reducing overall costs. The key to a successful home? A clear vision, a well-prepared project, and careful selection of priorities. Renovating means making each space a harmonious, functional, and beautiful living space, in a home that meets your desires and needs.
Preparing your renovation project: where to start?
Of course, you’ll need to hire a specialized company to renovate the interior of your home. However, there’s nothing stopping you from getting informed about the project’s preparation. You can even get good advice on how to extend the lifespan of each renovation in your home.
Assess the condition of your house
Before embarking on a house renovation, it’s important to understand its current condition. Renovating a house requires careful preparation, including an initial assessment to identify priorities. This assessment will help you target the improvements you need and plan a project tailored to your home.
To properly prepare for renovation work, start with a complete diagnosis. This includes insulation, ventilation, structural condition, networks (electricity, plumbing), roofing, and woodwork. The Energy Performance Diagnosis (DPE) provides information on the home’s energy consumption . If urgent work is necessary for safety reasons (electricity, gas, presence of hazardous materials), this must be addressed immediately.
Following the assessment, prioritize the work based on urgency and impact. Structural issues (settlement, major cracks) or safety issues (faulty electrical systems) should be addressed first. Then, focus on energy improvements that will improve your comfort and reduce your expenses.
Define your goals and budget
Your personal expectations should guide your renovation project . Are you aiming for a simple refresh or a major transformation? Do you have specific constraints, such as accessibility for people with reduced mobility? These factors will determine your technical and material choices.
The budget for renovating a house depends on the scope of the work. A light renovation costs between €250 and €750/m², a complete renovation between €1,500 and €2,500/m². Expenses vary depending on the materials chosen, the surface area, and the initial condition of the building. The most expensive items generally concern insulation , roofing, plumbing, and electrical work.
Average renovation costs by type of work and by room (2025) | ||
Type of work | Cost per m² (€) | Elements impacting the price |
Light renovation | 250-750 € | Painting, floors, refreshing without structural modification |
Intermediate renovation | 700-1 000 € | Change of equipment, partial insulation, small development works |
Complete renovation | 1 500-2 500 € | Demolition, electrical/plumbing, full insulation, structural modifications |
Kitchen renovation | 5 000-18 000 € | Appliances, materials (wood, laminate), room surface area |
Energy renovation | 200-800 € | Insulation, heating system, solar panels, ventilation |
In Paris (surface area < 20m²) | 955 € | Increased costs related to urban constraints and density |
In Paris (surface area > 40m²) | 512 € | Economy of scale in large spaces |
To reduce costs, explore grants for renovating an old house , particularly for insulation work. MaPrimeRénov’ and other programs fund energy improvements. The energy check can also help finance certain projects.
Choosing between doing it yourself or hiring professionals
Self-renovation can save money, but it requires time and technical skills. For simple projects (painting, flooring), DIY can be an option. However, for complex projects (electrical, structural), the help of qualified professionals is essential.
To find reliable professionals, demand recognized qualifications and ten-year and professional liability insurance . Compare several detailed quotes to avoid unpleasant surprises. Online platforms make it easier for tradespeople to compete.
- Check RGE certification to access financial aid
- Demand recognized qualifications (Qualibat, ECO Artisan)
- Make sure you have ten-year guarantees and professional liability insurance
- Ask for references from similar projects
- Compare several detailed and transparent quotes
These key elements will help you identify skilled tradespeople for your renovation project. For specific tasks or major projects, it’s best to seek expert help. Certified professionals guarantee the quality and safety of the improvements made to your home.
The key steps to effectively renovate a house
Renovating your home requires careful planning. The key steps in renovation work always follow a logical order to avoid waste and backtracking. The smooth running of your project will depend on the clarity of your plan and your ability to adhere to this timeline.
Renovating a house follows a very specific path. Start with preliminary research and planning, then move on to administrative procedures. Next, carry out the structural work (roof, foundations, framework) before tackling insulation and waterproofing. Next, work on the electrical and plumbing systems, and then the finishing touches. The average budget varies between €100 and €1,200 per m², depending on the scope of the improvements.
- Study the initial state of the building
- Obtain the necessary authorizations
- Ensure watertightness and airtightness
- Insulate and treat the building envelope
- Install technical networks
- Arrange interior spaces
- Apply exterior and interior finishes
Stay in control of your project by regularly monitoring its progress. Avoid rushed decisions and frequent changes of direction. A well-planned project allows for potential unforeseen events, which represent an average of 3% of the overall budget. Maintain clear communication with your contractors to anticipate challenges.
Priority work for a successful renovation
Certain renovation projects must be prioritized to ensure your home meets current standards and meets your needs. For example, you should focus on insulation to improve the building’s energy performance. You should also focus on the home’s plumbing and electrical system.
Improve insulation and energy efficiency
Good thermal insulation is one of the most cost-effective long-term investments. According to ADEME , insulating your attic can reduce heat loss by 25 to 30%. By improving insulation, you achieve greater comfort and a significant reduction in your energy costs. Wall insulation alone can save up to 23% on your heating bills.
There are several techniques available for interior insulation (ITI) to achieve maximum efficiency. For attics, you can opt for blown-in wool, panels, or rolls. Polyurethane offers excellent performance but a high environmental impact, while cellulose wadding offers good value for money. Wood and hemp are ideal for eco-friendly projects.
To optimize energy performance, opt for dual-flow ventilation. This system recovers heat from the extracted air to preheat the fresh air. Combined with a heat pump or wood heating, you get a complete system to reduce your energy costs .
Renovate the plumbing and electricity
Upgrading your electrical and plumbing systems is essential for safety. Outdated installations pose significant risks and can reduce the value of your property. Improper electrical renovations can even prevent you from obtaining home insurance in the event of an incident.
The NF C 15-100 standard is mandatory for new installations and complete renovations. It guarantees the safety and durability of the installation. Signs such as overheating outlets, frequent tripping, or exposed wires indicate advanced wear and tear. In plumbing, abnormal noises, leaks, or rusty water are warning signs that should not be ignored.
The NF C 15-100 standard stipulates specific heights for sockets and switches. In the kitchen, provide four sockets above the worktop. In bedrooms, place them at bedside table height. For plumbing, maintain safe distances from electrical outlets and avoid positioning them above a sink for safety reasons.
Restore or replace woodwork and roofing
The choice between restoration and replacement depends on the condition of the woodwork. If the frame is intact and only the glazing needs replacing, repair is sufficient. In the case of damaged woodwork or for maximum energy savings, replacement is essential. The price of a new PVC window is around €450/m², compared to a few dozen euros for restoration.
PVC remains the most economical option with good thermal insulation. Aluminum, more expensive, offers increased durability and less insulation without thermal break . Wood combines aesthetics and performance, provided it is regularly maintained. Mixed joinery combines the advantages of two materials, such as wood on the interior and aluminum on the exterior.
Regular inspection of your roof is essential. Check the condition of the tiles, gutters, and waterproofing. Every roof deserves renovation. The preferred materials vary depending on the slope, climate, and local regulations. For a gently sloping roof, synthetic slates are an economical and durable solution.
Arrange and modernize interior spaces
You now have some ideas on how to renovate a house. However, it’s possible to go further by adding modern touches to the home’s design.
Transform the kitchen and bathroom
Kitchens and bathrooms are evolving into warmer, more personalized spaces. The hues of 2025 lean toward greens, earth tones, and deep browns. Marble and wood are being incorporated into projects, as is Moroccan zellige for its artisanal appeal. These strategic pieces require special attention to combine aesthetics and functionality.
To optimize space, opt for smart solutions. In the kitchen, install shelves to free up countertops. In the bathroom, choose a wall-mounted vanity unit for easier cleaning. The price for these fixtures ranges from €5,000 to €18,000 for the kitchen, and €3,000 to €15,000 for the bathroom. Plan ahead for lighting, which is essential for creating ambiance.
Electrical standards specific to wet rooms require precautions. Circuits must be protected by a residual current device (RCD). It is prohibited to place an outlet above a sink. For ventilation, plan for a flow rate of 15 m³/h for a bathroom with a shower and 30 m³/h for a bathroom with a bathtub. The decree of October 22, 1969, requires permanent ventilation in homes.
Renovate floors and walls
The choice of flooring depends on the room and its intended use. Tile, which is water-resistant, remains the preferred choice for wet rooms. Linoleum, easy to install, is also suitable for these spaces. For bedrooms, solid wood flooring offers a warm ambiance, with a 25-year warranty for some models, such as Cortex cork.
Before repainting a wall, carefully prepare the surface. Identify cracks, fill holes, sand, and dust. For walls in poor condition, renovation plaster can mask imperfections before painting or wallpapering. If moisture is present, treat it with a hardener or waterproof coating. For uneven walls, plaster is the ideal ally.
Create a harmonious atmosphere throughout your home by following the 60-30-10 rule. 60% dominant color, 30% secondary color, and 10% accent. Avoid overloading with too many colors. Successful combinations combine natural textures and complementary hues. Renovation companies recommend consistent palettes for a successful project.
Optimize spaces and circulation
A well-thought-out renovation can redesign the layout for greater functionality. If the flow patterns are poorly designed or the lighting is insufficient, knocking down partitions can improve livability. Before taking action, check that the wall is not a load-bearing wall and that you have the necessary approval.
Anticipate future needs by planning your space. For teleworking, plan a dedicated area with storage. For a growing family, incorporate modular rooms. For age-appropriate housing, plan for walk-in showers and height-appropriate outlets. These arrangements anticipate aging and improve quality of life .
To avoid clutter, maximize storage. Take advantage of ceiling height with custom-made shelves or cabinets. Multi-functional furniture saves space: beds with storage, convertible sofas. Clever solutions, such as built-in storage or furniture on casters, organize space without sacrificing style.
FAQ
What loan for renovation work?
To finance your renovation work, several loan options are available. The renovation loan is a consumer credit specifically designed for this type of project, whether for your primary residence, secondary residence, or rental investment. There are also offers like the AGRI-TRAVAUX loan from Action Logement, which offers attractive loans for improvements up to €15,000.
Also consider the zero-interest eco-loan (eco-PTZ), ideal for energy renovation work , as well as the advance loan for relocation or renovation. Many banks offer home improvement loans, so it is advisable to compare offers to find the one best suited to your situation.
Is it profitable to renovate a house?
The profitability of a renovation depends on several factors. The type of work, the location of the property, and your investment project are all determining factors. Some renovations, such as kitchen and bathroom renovations, can offer high profitability potential upon resale.
Energy renovations are also attractive thanks to the energy savings and financial assistance available. It’s crucial to calculate the potential net profit, taking into account the cost of the work and the increase in the property’s value.
What work for 50,000 euros?
With a budget of €50,000, you can consider various types of work. This could include structural work, energy efficiency work, or finishing work. This budget may be sufficient to improve the thermal performance of an old stone house.
This amount allows for work on insulation, heating, joinery, ventilation, and domestic hot water. It’s important to plan the work carefully to maximize your budget.
What can I do with 100,000 euros of work?
With 100,000 euros, a complete renovation is possible if the area to be treated remains reasonable. This budget can cover a complete renovation of a house of 90 m² to 100 m², depending on its initial condition.
Possible renovations include electrical renovations, replacing floor and wall coverings, and upgrading the heating system. This budget offers ample room to transform your home.
