Most homeowners underestimate how long a remodel really takes. You start with excitement and a vision for your new space, but between permits, construction schedules, and finishing touches, reality can stretch out much longer than expected.

That’s why knowing the typical remodel timeline is one of the smartest things you can do before starting. Clear expectations = less stress and fewer surprises.

Here’s what really happens — and how long each phase usually takes.

1. Pre-Construction Planning (2–6 Weeks)

This is where your remodel begins — long before the first wall comes down.

• Design & Planning: Finalizing layout, materials, and finishes with your designer or contractor.
• Budgeting & Bids: Comparing estimates, locking in your contractor.
• Scheduling: Setting realistic expectations for labor and lead times.

💡 Tip: The more decisions you make upfront, the smoother everything runs later.

2. Permits & Approvals (2–8 Weeks)

Permits are the step that many homeowners forget to factor in.

• Kitchen and bathroom remodels often require building, plumbing, and electrical permits.
• Your city’s workload (and sometimes HOA approvals) can slow this down.

💡 Tip: Ask your contractor who will handle permits — some take this on for you, others expect you to manage it.

3. Demolition & Prep (1–2 Weeks)

Now the physical work begins. Walls come down, flooring comes up, and you start to see the bones of your home.

• Protect surrounding areas from dust and debris.
• Remove old cabinetry, fixtures, and appliances.
• Address any “surprises” behind the walls (plumbing or wiring issues).

💡 Tip: Always budget a little extra time for hidden issues — they’re common.

4. Construction Phase (4–12 Weeks)

This is the biggest (and sometimes longest) part of the remodel. Timelines vary based on the size of your project:

• Kitchen Remodel: 6–12 weeks
• Bathroom Remodel: 4–8 weeks
• Whole-Home Remodel: 3–6+ months

Key milestones include:

• Framing and structural changes
• Rough plumbing & electrical
• Inspections
• Drywall, flooring, and painting
• Cabinetry, trim, and doors

5. Finishing Touches (1–3 Weeks)

This is where the remodel starts looking like the dream space you envisioned.

• Countertops, lighting, plumbing fixtures installed
• Appliances delivered and hooked up
• Final paint touch-ups
• Hardware, mirrors, and accessories

💡 Tip: Be patient — the finishing touches are small but make the biggest difference in how your remodel feels.

6. Final Walkthrough & Move-In (1 Week)

You’ll do a final walkthrough with your contractor or designer to create a “punch list” — small fixes or adjustments before the project is considered complete.

Once that’s wrapped up, you can move back into your new space and finally enjoy it. 🎉

Average Remodel Timeline At-a-Glance

• Planning & Design: 2–6 weeks
• Permits & Approvals: 2–8 weeks
• Demolition: 1–2 weeks
• Construction: 4–12+ weeks
• Finishing Touches: 1–3 weeks
• Final Walkthrough: 1 week

👉 Total: 2–6 months on average (longer for large-scale or whole-home remodels).

Free Resource: Remodel Timeline Checklist

Want a simple, printable guide to track each step of your remodel?

📋 Download our Free Remodel Timeline Checklist and take the guesswork out of your project.

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