Remodel Timelines Explained: Kitchens, Bathrooms, ADUs, & Home Additions

Planning a home renovation is more than picking materials and colors. Knowing how long projects really take helps you plan better and avoid surprises. Every project is different, but understanding typical timelines for kitchen remodels, bathroom updates, ADU construction, and home additions helps you make smart choices. Working with a trusted remodeling company in Inland Empire gives you the best chance for a smooth project that stays on schedule.

Key Takeaways

• Kitchen remodels need 4-8 weeks for construction plus 2-3 months for planning

• Bathroom renovations take 2-3 weeks from start to finish

• ADU construction takes 8-12 weeks to build after permits are approved

• Home additions need 6-24 weeks, depending on size and complexity

• Planning and permits often take longer than the actual building

• Material choices and contractor schedules greatly affect timing

Kitchen Remodel Timeline Breakdown

Kitchen remodels typically take 4-8 weeks for construction, though a national study found kitchen projects took close to five months total in 2021. The wide range depends on what you want to change and how complex the work gets. Simple cosmetic updates can finish in 1-2 weeks, while complete overhauls that move walls take 8-12 weeks or more.

Planning and Design Phase (2-3 Months)

This phase includes meeting with contractors, choosing materials, and getting permits. According to a 2020 U.S. Houzz & Home study, kitchen projects took an average of 8.3 months of planning time and 4.5 months of construction time. You can shorten this by making decisions quickly and ordering materials early.

What happens during planning:

• Meet with your kitchen remodel contractor in Redlands to discuss layout and budget

• Choose cabinets, countertops, and appliances that fit your style and needs

• Get permits if your project involves electrical, plumbing, or structural work

• Order custom items early because cabinets can take 6-8 weeks to arrive

• Create detailed plans and finalize contracts before demolition starts

Many homeowners spend too much time on this phase, but good contractors help you make smart decisions faster. Quality contractors often book months ahead, so start looking early.

Construction Phase Breakdown

Once planning is complete and all materials arrive, construction can begin. Having everything ready before demolition starts prevents delays and keeps your project moving smoothly.

Demolition (3-5 Days)

Removing cabinets, countertops, appliances, and flooring typically takes 3-5 days. Workers protect other areas and dispose of old materials safely. Sometimes this step finds hidden problems like old wiring or plumbing issues that add time to your project.

Before demolition begins, make sure gas, water, and electricity are turned off in the work area. Professional contractors handle this and get the right permits for disposal.

Rough Work (1-2 Weeks)

This stage involves plumbing, mechanical, electrical, duct, wiring, insulation, and drywall work. Moving plumbing or electrical lines takes extra time because each step needs inspection before moving to the next phase.

Key rough work steps:

• Install new plumbing lines for sinks and dishwashers

• Run electrical wiring for outlets, lighting, and appliances

• Add insulation and hang drywall

• Prime and paint surfaces that get done before flooring

Installation (3-5 Weeks)

This is when your new kitchen really takes shape.

• Cabinet installation: Takes 1-2 weeks to measure, fabricate, and install properly

• Countertop work: Templating and installation can add 1-2 weeks because you're waiting for custom fabrication

• Flooring: Many types, like tile and hardwood, go in before cabinets, while vinyl and laminate wait until after

• Final touches: Appliances and fixtures bring everything together

Remember that countertop templating can only happen after cabinets are installed, and sinks can't be set until counters are in place.

What Affects Kitchen Timelines

• Project size: Cosmetic updates take 1-2 weeks while typical renovations need 4-8 weeks

• Material choices: Custom cabinets take longer than stock options

• Structural changes: Moving walls requires permits and engineering

• Hidden problems: Structural damages or anything that affects installation can have a major impact on the project's timeline

Bathroom Remodel Duration

Bathroom remodels typically take 2-3 weeks because they're smaller spaces with fewer systems to coordinate. The exact time depends on the scope of work and whether you're doing a simple refresh or a complete overhaul.

Standard Bathroom Timeline

Planning (1-2 Weeks) Planning for bathrooms is usually faster than kitchens because there are fewer choices to make.

• Choose fixtures like toilets, vanities, and faucets

• Pick tiles for floors, walls, and showers

• Decide on layout changes, if any

• Get permits for plumbing or electrical work

• Order materials and schedule delivery

Demolition (2-3 Days) Bathroom demolition goes quickly but requires careful handling of plumbing connections.

• Remove old fixtures like toilets, sinks, and tubs

• Take out old tiles and flooring

• Clear space and protect other areas from dust

• Address any surprises like water damage or mold

Installation (10-14 Days) The installation phase requires careful sequencing to avoid problems later.

• Plumbing and electrical work (3-5 days): Moving pipes or adding outlets for new fixtures

• Waterproofing and tile work (5-7 days): Proper waterproofing prevents future water damage

• Fixture installation and finishing (2-3 days): Final plumbing connections and finishing touches

Working with a bathroom remodel contractor in Redlands makes sure waterproofing is done right and meets local building codes. Poor waterproofing can cause expensive damage later, so this step is critical.

Factors That Affect Bathroom Timelines

• Size and complexity: Powder rooms finish faster than master bathroom suites with separate showers and tubs

• Custom work: Custom tile patterns or unique fixtures add time compared to standard installations

• Age of home: Older homes often have plumbing or electrical issues that need fixing during renovation

• Access issues: Tight spaces or upper-floor bathrooms can slow down material delivery and installation

ADU Construction Timelines

ADU construction typically takes 8-12 weeks, depending on project size. The total timeline from start to finish often takes 6-12 months when you include planning and permits.

ADU Development Phases

ADU Construction Steps

Foundation and Framing (3-4 weeks) This phase establishes the basic structure of your ADU.

• Site preparation, including excavation and grading

• Pour concrete foundation and allow proper curing time

• Frame walls, floors, and roof structure

• Install windows and doors and make it weather-tight

Systems and Utilities (2-3 weeks) Installing all the mechanical systems requires coordination with utilities.

• Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC installation

• Connect to main house utilities or install separate meters

• Install insulation and hang drywall

• Schedule inspections before covering with drywall

Finishing Work (3-5 weeks) The final phase creates a livable space.

• Install flooring throughout the unit

• Install kitchen cabinets and appliances

• Complete bathroom fixtures and finishes

• Interior and exterior painting

• Final connections and cleanup

An experienced ADU contractor in Redlands handles permits and inspections while keeping the project moving forward. They also coordinate with utility companies for connections and final approvals.

ADU Timeline Considerations

• Permit complexity: ADU permits can be complex because they must meet specific zoning and building codes

• Utility connections: Connecting to existing utilities or installing new service affects the timeline

• Site conditions: Challenging sites add time for foundation work

• Size and complexity: Studio ADUs build faster than multi-bedroom units

Home Addition Project Duration

Home additions can take 6-8 months for complex projects, while simpler additions finish much faster. The timeline depends on how much you're adding and how it connects to your existing home.

Addition Types and Timelines

Single-Room Additions (12-16 weeks) Extensions for bigger kitchens and great rooms typically require 5-7 weeks during construction. These projects stay within the existing footprint but extend outward.

• Foundation work and framing (2-3 weeks)

• Rough utilities and inspections (1-2 weeks)

• Insulation, drywall, and finishing (2-3 weeks)

Multi-Room Additions (16-20 weeks) Adding several rooms or bathrooms needs more coordination and time.

• Multiple foundation pours and framing stages

• Complex utility routing and connections

• More inspections and finishing work

Second-Story Additions (6-8 months) Second-story additions require 12-18 weeks of construction due to their scope.

• Structural analysis to make sure the existing foundation can support the new weight

• Temporary supports during construction

• Complex roof work and weather protection

• Interior work on both floors

What Affects Addition Timelines

• Foundation work: New concrete needs time to cure before building can start, usually 7-10 days depending on the weather

• Weather conditions: Weather can play a big role, especially if your project involves exterior changes like roofing or siding work

• Structural complexity: Connecting new work to existing buildings takes careful planning and often requires engineering

• System extensions: Running new electrical, plumbing, and HVAC from the main house adds time for connections and inspections

• Permit requirements: Larger additions need more complex permits and inspections at multiple stages

A home addition contractor in Redlands coordinates all these moving parts while making sure the new space fits perfectly with your existing home.

Planning Considerations for Additions

• Building codes: Your addition must meet local zoning requirements for property lines and building height

• Matching style: The new addition should look like it belongs with your current home

• Utility capacity: Your existing electrical and HVAC systems may need upgrades for the additional load

Planning for Project Success

Good planning prevents most delays and keeps costs under control. Start early and make decisions before construction begins.

Before Construction Starts

• Choose materials early: Custom items need longer lead times than stock products

• Pick the right contractor: Quality general contractors in Redlands often book months ahead

• Get permits ready: Building permits can take weeks to approve

• Plan for surprises: Set aside extra time and money for unexpected issues

Managing Your Timeline

• Stay in touch: Regular updates help you know what's happening and when

• Be flexible: Weather, material delays, and hidden problems can change schedules

• Don't rush quality: Rushing through the process often leads to bigger delays

• Trust professionals: Experienced contractors give you realistic timelines based on your specific project

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Understanding how long remodeling projects really take helps you plan better and set realistic expectations. Whether you're planning a kitchen update, bathroom renovation, ADU construction, or home addition in Redlands, working with experienced contractors keeps your project on schedule and within budget. The right remodeling team provides clear timelines, manages all the details, and communicates regularly throughout the process, turning what could be a stressful experience into a smooth path to your dream home.

Ready to start your remodeling project? Contact Straight Edge Builders today for a free consultation and detailed timeline for your kitchen, bathroom, ADU, or home addition in Redlands. Our experienced team provides realistic schedules and quality craftsmanship that keep your project on track and within budget.

Reference:

https://www.peaceofmindinteriors.ca/blog/kitchen-renovation-timeline-2025-guide