Planning a home renovation is the first step.

Home renovations can be stressful for homeowners. It’s hard to know exactly what to expect and how long a particular renovation might take. This makes planning difficult. Should you be away from home to give your contractor space, or be at home in case you’re needed to make an on-the-spot decision? Will the power and water need to be turned off? Will you need to eat out?

The general rule is that renovations will always take longer and cost more than you think they will, but you can get at least some idea about the timeline by talking with your contractor before the contract is signed. Asking questions about how long the project will take and what to expect will at least give you a starting point. Most contractors will add some extra time to their estimate in case they run into problems, and some will even set up the budget that way as well (just make sure they aren’t overcharging you if nothing does go wrong).

Contractor-Specific Factors in the Timeline

The other factor in how long your renovation will take is how busy the contractor is and how many projects they are doing at one time. Some contractors will work on several projects at the same time, alternating between different projects on different days. If the contractor is only working on your project one or two days a week, it will take much longer than if it is worked on every day. You can ask questions to find out how your contractor plans to work on your project.

Although you have signed a contract, it may be days or weeks until your renovation starts, depending on how many projects are ahead of yours. Ask your contractor when your renovation will begin, at least approximately, so you know what to expect.

Home renovations often take longer than you think they will.

Timeline by Type of Renovation

Kitchen or bathroom renovation may take 2 weeks to a month for a complete gut, with time being added if walls, windows or doors are being removed or added. If multiple rooms are being renovated, it could take 1 to 3 months for the entire process to be completed.

Window replacement throughout the entire house can take 1 to 4 weeks to complete. It will take less time if trim and framing is not replaced along with the windows.

Roof Replacement may take anywhere from a few days to about two weeks. Depending on your roof size and the weather during replacement, the work should proceed at about 1,500 to 4,000 square feet per day. You can ask your roofer about provisions to protect the roof and materials if it rains during the renovation.

Gutter Helmet(TM) can be installed in as little as one day depending on the size of the home.

HVAC system replacement should take about 2 to 4 days, depending on whether ductwork is also replaced.

These timelines have wide variations, so stay in communication with your contractor for the best estimates on your project. Moonworks provides free estimates for all renovation projects they offer by calling 1-800-975-6666.