How Long is this going to take?

Television remodeling shows have introduced some myths about the process in general, and specifically in regards to timing. At every step of the way, there are important things that must be done, and done in sequence, to complete a project successfully. Unlike on television, your project will not start with you swinging a sledgehammer into a wall. The first thing that happens when your job moves into production, is demolition prep: Existing surfaces are protected, items are salvaged, electric and plumbing are made safe for demo. Safety is key, so you will not be taking part. For more on how we move through a project and how long it will take, read on.

Preconstruction and Design: 3-10 months

Before our carpenters show up at your house to start work; the design, plans, and selections will have been substantially completed. By doing our homework ahead of time we are able to keep your project on budget and on time. More than any other phase of the process, your involvement as the homeowner will be critical to moving the design forward. There are many decisions to make, and though we will guide you every step of the way, the amount of time you have to commit to your homework, as well as how hands on you want to be, will affect how quickly we can move through this process. We tailor the design process to your preferences and needs.

Demo, Rough Framing, Plumbing and Electric: 2-6 months

Once your job moves into production, your main point of contact will be your project manager. Progress photos will be uploaded to our online construction management program, Buildertrend, along with all the selections, plans, schedule and payments. We will communicate through this portal as well. This allows everyone on our team to stay engaged throughout your project and make sure the design is executed as planned.

During this first phase of the project things will get worse before they get better. In the weeks leading up to our pre-drywall building inspection we execute the “behind the scenes” things that will make your house comfortable, up to date, and attractive for many years into the future. A purely cosmetic remodel is rarely the right answer. We need to strip back the layers, get the base right, air seal and insulate for comfort, and make sure we aren’t putting pretty finishes on faulty wiring or old pipes.

Drywall and Finishes: 2-6 months

Now is when things start to become exciting for most of our clients. Drywall allows you to see rooms take shape. Tile is installed. Cabinetry and counters go in. Finally, light fixtures, faucets, and kitchen appliances. It may seem like this stage is moving slowly compared to the rough stage, but it takes time to get finishes right, and to do the job right we need to move in sequence. We put floors under cabinets. We don’t sand while painters are working in the house. We work consistently and methodically to get to the final stage.

Punchlist 1-3 weeks. Warranty 1 year

Finally the time has come. We are at substantial completion. We have scheduled the cleaners and are handing off the space. We will note any small finish issues we have seen that need correcting and you will point out what you notice. This becomes the punch-list, which we will work through, often as you have begun using the space (if there is something like a replacement cabinet door or knob that hasn’t come in yet and doesn’t impede normal use). As you live in the space we ask that you make a list of anything else that comes up as your new space moves through the seasons, and we will schedule a visit 10-12 months later for a tune up. Obviously, pressing issues will be dealt with sooner. While our contract warranty is one year, some manufacturers warranties on products installed last much longer, and we are routinely back in homes where we finished work two or three years ago, to help out. We are looking for relationships that last. We want to help you care for your home.

Project Specific Duration:

Kitchen: Design/Pre-Construction: 3-6 months. Construction: 3-5 months

Primary Suite: Design/Pre-Construction: 2-4 months. Construction: 3-5 months

Basement: Design/Pre-Construction: 3-5 months. Construction: 4-6 months

Whole House Renovation: Design/Pre-Construction: 6-10 months. Construction: 6-13 months

Note: When projects are combined (ex. Kitchen + basement) the duration is not additive. The longer of the two estimates will be close to your total project duration.