Remodeling your home is about more than updating finishes. It's about creating spaces that support the way you live every day. Whether you're renovating a kitchen, reworking a bathroom, or finishing a basement, one of the first questions that comes up is: How long will this take? While every home and every project is different, having a general sense of the timeline helps you plan confidently. The timelines below assume a finalized design and buildable plans are already in place.
Here's what you can expect in this blog:
Remodeling Timelines in Charlotte
Kitchen Remodels
Bathroom Remodels
Basement Remodels
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
Whole Home Remodels
Outdoor Services
What Factors Impact the Timeline of Your Remodel?
Scope of Work
Existing Conditions
Labor and Trade Requirements
Permitting and Code Compliance
Project Type
Your Charlotte Remodelers
Working with Simonini Homes
Understanding how long each type of remodel typically takes can help you make informed decisions early in the process. Timelines vary based on complexity, scope, permitting, and the extent of changes to the existing layout. We have various tips for planning a remodel, but here are the timelines for each of our remodeling services.
How long does a kitchen remodel take? Most kitchen remodels take between 3 and 5 months from the start of construction. A more straightforward remodel, where everything stays in the same location, will move faster. If walls are being removed, layouts are changing, or you're waiting on custom cabinetry or specialty finishes, expect the timeline to extend.
The size of the kitchen, the number of trades involved, the complexity of selections, and whether adjacent spaces (like flooring throughout the main level) are affected can all influence your timeline's duration.
What's the timeline for a bathroom remodel? A typical bathroom remodel takes 2 to 3 months. If you're updating finishes but keeping the footprint the same, the process is relatively efficient. Larger primary baths with layout changes, high-end features, or extensive tile work can take longer to complete.
Factors that impact timing include plumbing relocation, heated floors, specialty fixtures, and early selections. Larger-format tiles or complex installation patterns can also increase installation time.
How long does it take to finish a basement? Basement remodels generally take 4 to 6 months. A basic layout with an open living space and a bathroom is faster to complete. Projects with multiple rooms, built-ins, or specialty spaces like wine cellars or home theaters will require more time and coordination.
Moisture mitigation, HVAC upgrades, low ceiling heights, and access limitations can all influence how the space is built out. Permitting may also take longer, depending on the design's complexity.
What's the timeline to build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)? An ADU typically takes 6 months or more to complete. Since ADUs function as independent living spaces, they require full permitting and inspections, just like a new home.
How long does a whole home remodel really take? These large-scale renovations can take 8 to 12+ months, depending on the scope. Site access and neighborhood-specific review processes may also impact the start date. When we begin work on your project, you'll receive a firm timeline tailored to your needs.
What is the timeline for outdoor living services? Outdoor remodels vary widely. A small patio or landscape update might take a few weeks, while larger projects, such as covered porches, outdoor kitchens, or integrated hardscapes, can take several months. The timeline depends on the project's size, permitting requirements, and material availability.
Here are some of the most common outdoor services and how their timelines compare:
Patios and hardscaping: Often completed in 3 to 6 weeks, depending on materials and access.
Covered porches: Typically take 3 to 5+ months, depending on the design's complexity.
Outdoor kitchens: These can take 2 to 4 months, depending on appliances, gas and water lines, and finishes such as stone or tile.
Fireplaces and fire pits: Can take 4 to 8 weeks, particularly if natural gas is involved.
Pools and pool surrounds: These are the most complex and often take several months due to grading, drainage, and specialty permits.
The timing of outdoor work may also depend on seasonal weather and site grading, especially if drainage or retaining walls are involved.
Every remodel is different, but certain factors consistently influence a project's timeline. Whether you're renovating a kitchen, finishing a basement, or building an ADU, understanding these drivers can help you plan more effectively and prioritize your project. You'll notice that these factors are similar to those impacting the cost of a remodel. Let's take a look at each one.
The overall size and complexity of the project have the greatest impact on duration. A full renovation that includes layout changes, structural work, and system upgrades will naturally take more time than a cosmetic update. The number of rooms involved and the extent of behind-the-wall changes also play a key role. Something like a bathroom remodel can seem simple, but behind-the-wall surprises can expand the scope of what you're dealing with.
Older homes or previous renovations may present unexpected issues once demolition begins. Outdated wiring, plumbing not up to current code, or structural deficiencies can all lead to additional work. Site conditions, access, and any necessary repairs will also affect the overall timeline.
The number and type of skilled trades involved will influence both cost and schedule. Projects that require highly specialized labor, such as detailed tile work, millwork, or custom installations, will generally require a higher labor investment.
Projects that involve structural changes, additions, or accessory units typically require more detailed permitting and inspections. Local codes may affect your design, product choices, and how certain work is executed, which can all influence your final timeline.
A whole home remodel will naturally take longer than a bathroom remodel. While each type of remodel has its own scope, don't forget to factor in the type of project when you're planning your remodeling timelines and future.
Choosing the right remodeling partner matters. You want a remodeling company that not only understands construction but also knows how to work within an existing structure, manage a detailed schedule, and protect your home's integrity throughout. You want a team that gives you fair timelines and works with you to meet them.
Whether you're remodeling a single room or rethinking your entire home, Simonini Homes offers a process that is clear, collaborative, and highly organized. Our team includes experienced project managers, skilled tradespeople, and in-house design support, all working together to keep your project running smoothly from day one.
We understand that remodeling is personal. It requires trust, planning, and a deep understanding of how each space will be used. Our process is built to deliver results without surprises, and we stay closely connected with you throughout the entire experience.
Our portfolio includes thoughtful, high-end renovations across Charlotte’s most established neighborhoods. We invite you to explore recent work and browse our cost guide to better understand what your investment might look like.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more.