A custom home renovation can take anywhere from three months to an entire year to complete. You need time to gather ideas, order supplies and finish the actual construction. The following guide can help you create a realistic design and construction timeline for your project.
Collect Your Inspiration
You should start gathering inspiration for your design several months before your start date. You want to save pictures of rooms, spaces and elements that catch your eye. Work with your designer to choose the right colors, materials and styles for your project.
Look Into Permits
The best way to set a realistic goal is to learn your limitations in advance. You need to look into building permits, codes and requirements for your project. It is also important to look into documents or CAD plans from previous construction projects.
Set Your Timeline
There is more to a design and construction timeline than physical work. You also need to include ordering and receiving your materials. The materials do not always arrive on the estimated delivery date, and this is why you need to set a realistic timeline for your project.
Design Phase Timeline
It is recommended to plan a design timeline of two to six months. You want to plan for two months for one room and four to six months for several rooms. The following is an example of a design phase timeline.
One week to one month: Contact your city departments to inquire about building permits and codes. You should also schedule an on-site consultation with experts such as an electrician, and you should have your space measured for construction.
One to three months: Use this time to gather inspiration pictures for your design, and work with your designer to set a realistic goal.
Two weeks to three months: Shop for furniture, finishes and materials, and start looking for a professional contractor or tradesperson.
Construction Phase Timeline
You never know when a delay could slow down your construction. The delay could be a huge problem unless you are prepared for it. The following is an example of a construction phase timeline.
One to six months: Product delivery. It can take several weeks to receive the materials you ordered locally, and it can take several months to receive the materials you ordered from overseas.
One to six months: The actual construction. It can take one month to finish renovating a single room and three months to renovate several rooms. It can also take six months to a year to renovate an entire home.
It is best to plan the delivery and construction as two separate steps.
Buffer Timeline
A buffer timeline is the time you add for unexpected emergencies that could delay your project. It is recommended to add at least two months of buffer time to your timeline. If your project must be done by a certain event, you should plan to have it done two months before the event date.
Example Timeline
The following is an example of a timeline for the renovation of an average kitchen.
Design phase:
One month: Look into building codes and permits for construction, and start collecting inspirational pictures for your design.
Two months: Start shopping for products such as paint, finishes, hardware, furniture and materials.
Construction phase:
One month: The materials ordered locally are delivered, and this means the construction can start right away.
Two months: Buffer time is added for unexpected emergencies such as delayed shipment or damaged materials.
The planned timeline for this specific project is at least six months.
Create a Realistic Budget
It is easy to lose track of how much you are spending when you do not set a budget. Work with your designer to set a realistic budget for your project. You are more likely to watch what you spend when you have to stick to a budget.
Set a Start Date
It never hurts to start several months to a year in advance to ensure your project is finished by a certain date. You should also start during an off-season to ensure your tradesperson is available.
You can find a qualified contractor in your area by contacting Alair Homes North Island. Alair Homes specializes in remodels, renovations, and custom home building.
When you follow a realistic design and construction timeline, your custom home makeover is sure to be a great experience.