Home renovation projects are exciting, but they also take time. If you're planning to remodel your home, one of the biggest questions you'll face is how long it takes to renovate a house.
The answer depends on several factors, from the scope of work to contractor availability. However, knowing what to expect can help you plan better, avoid surprises, and feel more confident about the process.
In this guide, we’ll examine average timelines for different renovation projects, what influences those timelines, and how to stay on track. Let’s break it down, room by room.
Before we jump into room-by-room estimates, it’s helpful to understand the variables that impact your renovation timeline.
Understanding these factors early on will help you set more accurate expectations and avoid common delays.
Every renovation is different, but here’s what you can typically expect for each type of project. These timelines reflect national averages and are helpful starting points for planning.
Flooring upgrades are usually one of the faster projects to complete.
Installation time can increase if old floors need to be removed or subfloors need repair.
Bathrooms might be small, but they require coordination between plumbing, electrical, tiling, and fixture installation.
Projects tend to take longer if you're relocating plumbing or choosing custom materials.
The kitchen is often the most complicated room to renovate due to plumbing, appliances, cabinetry, and design layout.
Ordering materials and appliances in advance can help you stay on schedule.
Turning an unfinished basement into a livable space is a smart way to add usable square footage to your home. Most projects take about 4–8 weeks, depending on the size of the area and the level of customization. If you're including features like a bathroom, kitchenette, or multiple rooms, expect the timeline to stretch a bit longer.
Building a new room is a major renovation that covers everything from foundation work to framing, roofing, and finishing. On average, the process takes 12–20 weeks. Factors like permit approvals, inspections, and even the weather can all impact the time it takes from start to finish.
A full-scale home remodel is a significant investment of time and resources. 9–12 months is typical for large projects that involve multiple systems, structural work, and custom finishes.
This timeline can shift depending on whether you’re living in the home during construction, how much is being done at once, and the complexity of your design choices.
Renovation timelines can shift, but you can take steps to minimize delays and keep things moving smoothly.
These simple strategies can help your renovation stay on schedule and run more smoothly from start to finish.
The longer a project takes, the more it can cost. Here’s why:
That’s why setting a clear timeline is important if you want to stay on budget.
If you’re trying to align project goals with your budget, our Home Renovation Cost Calculator can help you break it down and plan smarter.
We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners in Northern California navigate home renovations. At Experts In Your Home, we combine decades of technical know-how with a clear, customer-first approach.
When you work with us, you’re not just hiring a contractor, you’re teaming up with local experts who care about your home as much as you do. We’ll help you understand what to expect, keep you informed every step of the way, and deliver high-quality results with no surprises.
If you’re still wondering how long your renovation will take or how much it might cost, let’s simplify things.
Use our Home Renovation Cost Calculator to get a clearer picture of your timeline, budget, and next steps. It’s fast, free, and built to help you plan with confidence.