Planning a Connecticut home improvement project can be time-consuming, especially when you're hiring an in-demand contractor. Knowing approximately how long you'll have to wait and planning around it can help you have a successful home improvement project.
This article will discuss project timelines, including the time you'll spend waiting for your contractor to become available, what happens during that time, and how long your project will take once the work begins.
How Long Will I Wait for a Good Contractor?
Good contractors stay busy and have full schedules. After the contract is signed, homeowners hiring reputable contractors must typically wait 3 to 4 months before the work can begin.
During the wait time, the contractor will:
- Order materials: Materials can take weeks, depending on the source, quantity, and supply chain. Once you've signed a contract and paid the down payment, the contractor will order materials so they'll be ready when the project start date arrives.
- Start the permitting process: Permitting usually takes about 30 days, although this wait time can vary. Your contractor will start the process early, so work can begin as soon as possible.
- Line up subcontractors, engineers, and surveyors: Some jobs require subcontractors, surveyors, engineers, and more. Your contractor will line up the professionals required to finish the project.
How Long Do Home Improvement Projects Take?
Some projects take longer than others. Below is an estimate of how long each project will take once construction work begins. Every project is different. Scope of work, project complexity, and other factors can impact how long it takes to finish a home improvement project. Your contractor can tell you how long it will take to finish your job.
- Deck installation: 1 week for a simple deck design, 2-3 weeks for a complex deck installation
- Home Addition: 6 months or more
- Bathroom Remodel: 4 weeks
- Kitchen Remodel: 6 weeks
- Siding installation: 2 weeks
- Repainting Full Home Interior: Several weeks or a month
What Else Impacts Project Timelines?
Many things can impact project timelines. Below are some factors that can impact how long it will take to start or complete your project.
Weather
Cold temperatures and inclement weather can impact some outdoor projects. Most projects can move forward even when it's cold outside, but you may need to pay more for special materials and techniques that make working in lower temperatures possible. If you require a tight turnaround at a time of year when the weather can be prohibitive, talk to your contractor.
Changing the Scope Midway Through
Sometimes, the project scope changes midway through the job. This can happen when the contractor discovers damage that needs repair before the work can proceed. This can also happen when the homeowner adds to the project scope or changes materials after the work has already begun.
Changing the project scope midway through the job can add more time to the project than if the work had been incorporated into the plan to begin with. For this reason, it's best to know what needs to be done before the work begins. If you have concerns about finishes, materials, or scope of work, talk to your contractor as quickly as possible. Avoid waiting until the last minute to suggest changes.
What Can You Do to Speed the Process?
You can keep the construction project moving through careful planning and good communication. Here are some tips to help expedite your project and keep it moving once work begins.
- Know your goals. What do you hope to accomplish with your home remodel or improvement project? What are the most essential features? Knowing the goals can help drive your project and will help ensure that the finished product will meet your needs for years after the work is done. Knowing your goals can also help you avoid last-minute changes that can add to the scope of work.
- Make a budget. Know how much you can afford to spend, and talk to your contractor about your budget. Having a firm amount in mind can help you avoid cash flow problems that could cause delays.
- Communicate with all involved parties. Maintain good communication with everyone involved in your project. Don't leave out important details when working with your contractor or other members of your household. Communicating with all involved parties helps ensure that your project will be a success and can keep your project moving forward.
Do All Projects Take This Long?
Not all projects require a long wait. Sometimes contractors can fit quick, easy jobs into their busy schedule between projects. If you're uncertain whether your job will require a long wait, contact the contractor of your choice to find out how quickly your project can be completed.
Are Good Contractors Busy All Year Round?
Generally speaking, good contractors stay busy most of the year - even in winter! Plan to wait for your contractor to become available, even if you're remodeling at a slower time of year.
Ready to Get Started? Contact Your Connecticut Contractor Today
Good contractors are worth waiting for. If you're planning a home improvement project, the best thing you can do is start planning early. It's spring right now, but many good contractors are already setting their fall schedules.
If you plan to start a home remodel or project this fall, contact contractors you trust. Hiring a good home improvement contractor can be difficult.
To make this process easier, Litchfield Builders has created a free guide about hiring a professional home remodeling contractor. Have questions? Contact us to learn more about how we can help you with your upcoming home improvement project.
