This is an important question for most homeowners but, unfortunately, the duration of a renovation depends on many factors including but not limited to the type, size, and scope of the project, weather, etc.
Just to be clear, the following estimated timelines are based on having an organized professional completing the renovations. A professional will typically have all materials on site or ready for pickup before the project is started and will have reliable sub-trades, such as plumbers and electricians scheduled and ready. These two items help to keep projects on track to be completed within the timeline and running as smoothly and efficiently as possible. Another important item is that “stuff happens”, people get sick, weather causes delays, products are back ordered and these regular items can cause delays, which can be beyond your contractor’s control.
Let’s start with some basic renovations of traditional residential homes - bathroom, kitchen, basement & additions. These timelines are based on our experience as a renovation contractor and how we organize a project:
A typical bathroom without tile can be completed in 8-10 working days and with a tile surround or floor, the project will need 10-15 days. If the project requires structural modification, installation of in-floor heating or a steam shower, it could take longer.
Kitchen renovation timelines vary significantly depending if walls are being removed or if any changes in location of plumbing are necessary. A basic project could be limited to the removal and reinstallation of cabinets with new vinyl flooring, laminate countertop while sticking to the same layout; this would take 3-4 weeks. Larger kitchens with wall removal, tile floor, lighting, and solid surface counters may typically take 10-12 weeks to complete.
It is common that a basement has been previously completed and requires demolition to expose the concrete foundation, reframed, insulated, new electrical, plumbing, drywall, subfloor, flooring, paint and trim. These projects typically range in size of 600-1200 sq ft of renovated space and can vary significantly in the time required to complete. I would suggest that 8-12 weeks to complete depending on the complexity of the design. It is important to review with your contractor during a home visit and be prepared for some delay.
There are many variables when it comes to the time frame for additions, foundation type, size of addition, complexity, existing home modifications, accessibility of the site and many more. Therefore, it is critical to have a detailed set of construction plans prior to estimation and planning of timelines. To provide a comparative example, a small 8 ft x 8 ft mudroom on concrete post with a set of stairs, may take 4-6 weeks to complete, while a 1000 sqft, two story addition with a full foundation, may take 6-8 months or more to complete.
All of the above estimated timelines are based on the personal experience and best-case scenario where we do not run into any unknowns - rot, weather delays, damaged materials, etc. You should always discuss a schedule with your contractor and ensure they can give you an idea of how long a project will take.
As for the second part of the question, I always want the home owner to be home on the morning that we start so we can ensure that all the details are addressed – where is the water & power shutoffs, are there any pets and how will they be kept safe during the renovation, where can we park, unload and, store materials, etc.? After the initial start, we are typically fine with the client going about their daily routine of work, school, etc. We typically work from 8am-5pm, Monday to Friday to allow the client to continue living in their home while we renovate, if possible and if they choose. If they choose to relocate during the renovation, then regular site meetings and emergency contact numbers should be planned to ensure the client is aware of the progress and any changes from beginning to end.
I hope you found this information helpful as you plan your future renovation project.
Dan Monk, P.Eng. / Red Seal Carpenter
Owner – MONK Renovations
