Project Timeline: What to Expect During Your Renovation

One of the most common questions we hear is "How long will this take?" The answer depends on many factors, but understanding typical timelines helps set realistic expectations.

Factors Affecting Timeline

1. Project Scope

The most obvious factor:

Project TypeTypical Duration Bathroom refresh1-2 weeks Full bathroom renovation3-5 weeks Kitchen renovation6-12 weeks Basement development8-14 weeks Home addition12-20 weeks Custom home8-14 months

2. Permit Requirements

Permits add time but are essential:

Permit application: 2-6 weeks

Inspections: Scheduled around work phases

Final approval: 1-2 weeks after completion

3. Material Availability

Current realities:

Standard materials: Usually in stock

Custom cabinets: 6-12 weeks lead time

Special order items: 4-16 weeks

Imported materials: Can be longer

4. Trade Scheduling

Coordinating multiple trades:

Busy seasons (spring-fall) may have delays

Specialized trades may have limited availability

Sequencing matters (electrical before drywall, etc.)

5. Discovery Issues

What we find when walls open:

Water damage requiring repair

Outdated wiring needing replacement

Structural issues

Asbestos or lead paint (in older homes)

Phase-by-Phase Timeline

Pre-Construction Phase

Design and Planning (2-8 weeks)

Initial consultation

Design development

Material selection

Detailed quotation

Permitting (2-6 weeks)

Application preparation

Municipal review

Approval receipt

Pre-Construction Prep (1-2 weeks)

Material ordering

Trade scheduling

Site preparation planning

Construction Phases

Example: Kitchen Renovation (8 weeks total) WeekActivities 1Protection, demolition, disposal 2Rough electrical, plumbing 3Inspections, drywall 4Drywall finishing, priming 5Cabinet installation 6Countertop templating/installation 7Backsplash, fixtures, appliances 8Final touches, cleaning, walkthrough Example: Basement Development (12 weeks total) WeekActivities 1-2Framing, rough-ins 3Electrical, plumbing, HVAC 4Inspections 5-6Insulation, drywall 7Drywall finishing 8Painting, priming 9-10Flooring, trim 11Fixtures, finishes 12Final inspection, cleanup

Seasonal Considerations in Alberta

Best Times to Renovate

Interior Work:

Year-round scheduling possible

Slightly faster in winter (trades more available)

No weather delays

Exterior Work:

April-November optimal

Foundation work: May-October

Roofing: Avoid extreme cold

Weather Impacts

Concrete work limited in freezing temperatures

Roofing shingles require warmth

Exterior paint has temperature limits

Material delivery can be weather-affected

Managing Your Timeline

Before Starting

1. Complete all decisions before construction begins 2. Order long-lead items early 3. Clear your schedule for decision-making availability 4. Prepare for disruption realistically

During Construction

1. Respond quickly to questions and decisions 2. Limit changes after work begins 3. Trust the process even when it looks messy 4. Communicate concerns promptly

Common Delays to Avoid

Changing your mind mid-project

Adding scope during construction

Unavailable for decisions

Ordering materials late

Changing product selections

What a Realistic Schedule Looks Like

Good Scenario

Design → Permits → Materials → Construction → Completion Smooth, predictable timeline

Reality

Design → Permits (delay) → Materials (backorder) → Construction (discovery issues) → Changes → Completion Still successful, just longer

Tips for Staying on Track

1. Build buffer time into your expectations 2. Prioritize decisions early in the process 3. Accept that surprises happen in renovation 4. Trust experienced contractors to navigate issues

Our Commitment to Timeline

We provide:
• Detailed project schedules at contract signing
• Weekly progress updates during construction
• Proactive communication about any delays
• Contingency planning for common issues

While we can't control everything, we manage what we can and communicate transparently about the rest.

Ready to Plan Your Project?

Let's discuss your renovation timeline:

Contact us for a free consultation

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Learn more about Our Process and see how we manage projects from start to finish.