Anything worth doing needs time. Renovating a single small room can easily take three months from initial design research to finished construction, whereas a fuller renovation can take much longer. Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your renovation timeline.
1. Give yourself time to design
A thorough design process should be given two to six months. Projects usually involve more decisions than people expect, so plan to spend several months defining your vision, and some time working with a professional to give it the clarity it deserves.
2. Allow time for permitting
Larger cities generally have more stringent permitting processes, so depending on where you live, the approval process can range from several weeks to several months. Once you've cleared this hurdle you can start building.
3. Don't believe what you see on TV
TV shows might lead you to believe that you can complete a dramatic makeover in three days, but the reality is that it takes much longer. Between demolition, delivery of materials, building time, and allowing some buffer time, expect at least a month for any renovation that is more than cosmetic. Even a month is very optimistic.
4. Anticipate scheduling conflicts
People tend to overlook the availability of professionals and materials. Depending on what products you’ve ordered and what trades you require (tilers, plumbers, painters, glass fitters), you may not be able to begin construction on a moment’s notice.
5. A note on seasonality
It is wise to begin your project in the off-seasons, rather than during the spring and early summer, when people are trying to ready their homes for entertaining. November and December are packed with holidays, so it can be tough finding tradespeople to schedule time with! All of this can be avoided by starting early and booking in advance.
Renovation Phases
Many people don't realize how many steps are required for even a simple renovation. These phases are:
Planning and Design: This phase can take a few weeks to a couple of months*, depending on the extent of planning and decision-making required. It involves discussing the design with a kitchen designer or contractor, selecting materials, appliances, and fixtures, and finalizing the layout and style.
Demolition and Preparation: Demolishing the existing kitchen, removing old cabinets, countertops, and appliances, and preparing the space for the renovation typically takes around 1 to 2 weeks.*
Plumbing and Electrical Work: If the renovation involves relocating plumbing and electrical fixtures, this phase may take another 1 to 2 weeks.*
Structural Changes and Building: If major structural changes, such as removing or adding walls or changing the kitchen's layout, are part of the project, it may add a few more weeks to the timeline.
Installation of Cabinets, Countertops, and Appliances: Installing new cabinets, countertops, and appliances can take around 2 to 4 weeks*, depending on the complexity of the design and the availability of materials.
Flooring and Painting: Installing new flooring and completing any required painting may take another 1 to 2 weeks.*
Finishing Touches and Cleanup: The final stage involves adding finishing touches, such as hardware, lighting fixtures, and backsplash, and cleaning up the space, which can take another week or so.
* It's important to note that unexpected delays, changes in the design, or unforeseen issues during the renovation process can also impact the timeline. Working with a reputable contractor, having a detailed project plan, and regular communication can help ensure that a renovation stays on track and is completed within the estimated time frame.
Timeline Guide by Room
For any room, renovation time can vary depending on several factors, such as the scope of the project, the size of the space, the complexity of the design, and the availability of materials and contractors. Renovating a single small room can easily take 3 months, whereas a larger renovation can take much longer. Below are a few guidelines on renovation time per room.
KITCHEN
From the design process through the construction phase, a kitchen remodel typically takes between 6 or 7 months to complete.*
BATHROOM
From the design process through the construction phase, a kitchen remodel typically takes around 5 months to complete.*
BEDROOM
Renovating a single room can easily take 3 months.*
1st FLOOR
From the design process through the construction phase, a first floor remodel can take between 8 and 10 months to complete.*
WHOLE HOUSE
Depending on size of the home and project scope, from the design process through the construction phase, a whole home remodel can take between 9 and 12 months to complete.*
* It's important to note that unexpected delays, changes in the design, or unforeseen issues during the renovation process can also impact the timeline. Working with a reputable contractor, having a detailed project plan, and regular communication can help ensure that a renovation stays on track and is completed within the estimated time frame.
Need Help?
Book a free consultation with Interior Designer Gwen Canfield. She can help you formulate a design plan and find the right general contractor. Book at www.615interiors.com/contact
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