As you begin planning your home remodel in Eastern Michigan, most of your initial questions will likely revolve around the anticipated cost and timeline for the project. For example, homeowners often wonder if there is one month or season of year that is superior when it comes to remodeling.
The short answer is that there is no wrong time to renovate or upgrade your home in Fenton once you’re well-researched and prepared to make the financial investment and time commitment. However, there are some factors to consider regarding your remodeling schedule based on the type of project you’re undertaking.
How Long Does Home Remodeling Take in Fenton, MI
As you develop your remodel schedule, the first thing to assess is how long your project will take. Having that information can help you determine when to start and how the work will impact other personal and professional responsibilities and commitments.
While your home remodeler is the best source for giving you an estimated schedule for a specific project in the Fenton area, here is a look at the average timelines for several popular home renovations and improvements:
Bathroom Remodel
Typically, it takes about six weeks to three months to plan and execute a bathroom remodel, depending on the size of the space and the scope of work. You can expect both the design and construction phases of a master bath makeover to take longer than a small half-bath renovation. The average duration of construction when you remodel a bathroom is about two to three weeks.
Kitchen Remodel
Similar to your bathroom, the length of time it takes to remodel a kitchen also depends on a variety of factors, like the size and complexity of the space. On average, a full kitchen renovation that includes installing new appliances, fixtures and finishes, and changing your plumbing and electrical service locations takes about three to five months. If you’re simply making cosmetic upgrades, the project should take less time.
Whole Home Remodel
A whole home renovation takes an average of three to nine months for both planning and construction. Expansions and projects that involve structural changes take longer both to design and permit properly. The remodeling schedule also depends on your availability and decisiveness when partaking in the planning and design phase.
Finished Basements
Another common type of home renovation in Fenton is converting or finishing your basement to turn it into livable space. A basement finishing project generally takes about four to eight weeks from start to finish.
The Best Time of the Year to Renovate Your Home
When choosing the time to start your home remodel, there are a couple variables to consider, including weather; the cost and availability of labor and materials; and your own personal circumstances. If you have a busy season at work where you’re putting in long hours, you may want to plan around those weeks or months. Your children’s school schedules, family vacations and other planned activities and events should be evaluated.
Based these factors, here are some of the most suitable home improvement projects to tackle during each season of the year:
Winter Remodeling
Although working outside from January to March in Eastern Michigan doesn’t sound fun, it’s not a bad time to begin a home addition since the dry air and frozen ground are optimal for digging foundations and pouring concrete footers. Starting early in the year also gives you time to make sure the foundation is finished and the addition is framed before the rainy spring season. Additionally, many homeowners wait until after tax season to use their refund for remodeling, so builders tend to be less busy during the first couple months of the year.
Spring Remodeling
The spring season, from April to June, tends to be the busiest time for the building industry, so you may pay a premium on materials and labor simply based on supply vs. demand if you start your project in one of these months. If budgeting conservatively is not your main concern, use the spring season for projects that involve decks, patios and other exterior living spaces. Not only is the ground softer for digging, but your outdoor project is likely to be done in time for you to use the space during the summer and fall. Additionally, the nicer weather and longer days mean remodeling crews can typically finish projects more swiftly.
Summer Remodeling
Come summer, consider tackling an indoor project, such as a kitchen makeover or bathroom remodel. Your team can work inside, away from the sweltering summer sun, while also not getting stuck in an oppressively hot space, such as an attic. Contractors also recommend doing roof replacements and repairs in the summer, because materials require higher temperatures to seal properly without leaks or wind damage.
Additionally, if you’re planning to renovate an interior space over the summer, you can plan a family vacation to get away from the noise and commotion for a few days. Spending time outside while the crew is onsite is also more feasible and pleasant from July to September.
Fall Remodeling
You don’t need to avoid scheduling a project in the fall months, from October through December, but keep in mind that the impending holidays may impact the shipping time on products and materials, as well as the availability of crew members. On one hand, some companies have more availability during these slower months and materials may be less expensive. The weather in Fenton is still fairly nice in October as well. As the fall advances, however, you’re going to deal with fewer daylight hours and more unpredictable weather, which could cause delays and extend the duration of your home remodel.
Remodeling Your Home in Fenton, MI
Choosing when to renovate a residential space or your entire home depends on the type of work you’re doing, your budget and how long you want the project to last. If you’re ready to move ahead with a home remodel in the Fenton area, our team at Top Choice Builders can provide you with insight on the estimated schedule for your particular project and what to take into consideration before selecting a start date.