The always popular remodeling question “How much will this cost?” is often quickly followed by “How long does it take to remodel?” The answer? It’s difficult to say for certain, but probably longer than you think, or want. The truth is, each bathroom, basement, or beautiful kitchen remodeling project we do is unique.
How Long Does It Take to Remodel?
We sometimes compare a remodeling job to a rollercoaster ride: when the design and materials selection starts, things can feel like they’re moving quickly. Then there’s a lull while permits are obtained and a construction schedule is set. Next, there’s the tons of activity that takes place during demo, followed by days of electrical and plumbing work where it’s hard to see visible results. Finally, another flurry of activity for drywall, flooring, and cabinets and then another lull of finishes.
At some point in this up and down process you’ll probably feel that, as much as you appreciate your lead craftsman, you’ll also be glad when the final cleaning is done and the team is heading out the door. We get that it’s often frustrating. Most homeowners need to see progress to believe it’s really happening. On those days you find yourself asking “Are they doing anything?” you can rest assured that, yes, we are.
How to Relax and Enjoy the Ride
If knowing what to expect is half the battle in navigating a home remodeling project, the other half is having a process in place that uses steps and checklists to keep things flowing smoothly. Scheduling out your project takes careful preparation to make sure things happen in a reasonable amount of time.
The time required for your St. Louis remodel is contingent on a number of factors. The type of remodel, the scope of the project, how long the design process takes, etc. all affect how long it will take. If your project is less complicated, such as a small bathroom remodel, it typically will not take that long to complete. It helps to understand that what really defines a “small” project is not so much the square footage as that the layout of the room does not change. That is, sinks, toilets, showers, and tubs are not being moved.
For mid-size or larger projects, especially those that involve structural changes and altered layouts, both the design and construction phases can be longer. If the work requires a permit, that can also add weeks to the process.
We may not be able to give a blanket response to the question, but experience – and our proven process – has given us a good idea of how long certain things typically take.
- Design and selections for a full bath or kitchen remodel: 2 to 4 weeks, depending on your availability to make decisions.
- Product lead time: 2 to 6 weeks for items like solid surface tops and glass enclosures to be templated and manufactured.
- Remodeler scheduling: may add 2 to 4 weeks
- Bathrooms: 2 to 6 weeks
- Kitchens: 2 to 6 weeks
- Basements: 5 to 8 weeks
Creating a Schedule
Of course, when the work actually starts depends on both your and your remodeler’s schedules. Keep in mind that remodeling is not an exact science. Any number of circumstances can affect each project differently, so it’s important to look for a contractor who does the upfront work necessary to help avoid surprises and costs which affect timeliness while the job is in progress. That includes having a set schedule and all products in hand before starting.
Here at J.T. McDermott, we provide you with a timeline for both the design and construction stages during our initial consultation, and we refine and define the details as the process moves along. We also use the advanced technology of Buildertrend™ to enhance communications, track tasks, improve performance, and keep things moving forward in a timely fashion.
Learn More
To learn more about how we work to schedule projects effectively and efficiently to ensure you get the home you want when you want it, schedule a conversation with us today. We look forward to meeting you!
