Timeline for a Bathroom Remodel in the Greater Minneapolis Area: What to Expect

Bathroom remodels may be small in square footage, but they’re big when it comes to planning, investment, and impact. Whether you’re modernizing a dated powder room or reimagining a spacious primary suite, one of the first questions many homeowners ask is: how long will this take?

While every remodel is different, most bathroom projects in the Minneapolis–St. Paul area follow a similar structure. Here's what you can expect at each stage—and why each one matters.

typical bathroom remodel timeline

1.  Planning and design (4-8 weeks)

The first step in any remodel is thoughtful planning. During this phase, homeowners typically work with a designer or design-build team to:

• Clarify goals, layout preferences, and lifestyle needs

• Align the design with overall budget expectations

• Finalize floor plans and construction details

• Choose fixtures, materials, and finishes

Design can move quickly if you already know what you want—but customizations, changes, or a desire to “see more options” can stretch this stage out. In general, expect this process to take around 4 to 8 weeks.

2. Permitting and Material ordering (2-6 weeks)

Once the design is locked in, the next step is securing permits and ordering products. This includes:

• Submitting plans to the city for review

• Ordering items like tile, vanities, plumbing fixtures, and lighting

• Coordinating delivery timelines and availability

• Setting a schedule for production

Lead times vary widely depending on product selection. Standard fixtures may arrive quickly, but specialty or custom items can take 6+ weeks. This phase tends to overlap with the tail end of design and doesn't always feel active—but it’s a crucial part of staying on track.

3. Construction (4-8 weeks)

With plans approved and products ready, construction can begin. A full bathroom remodel typically involves:

• Demolition of the existing space

• New framing or layout changes (if needed)

• Plumbing and electrical updates

• Tile, flooring, drywall, and cabinetry installation

• Painting and final fixture installation

The average construction phase for a bathroom remodel in Minneapolis is 4 to 8 weeks. Simpler bathrooms may wrap up in less time, while larger or more intricate spaces—like spa-inspired owner suites—can take longer.

What If the Bathroom Is Part of a Larger Remodel?

If your bathroom remodel is just one piece of a larger project—like a whole-home renovation, a kitchen remodel, or an addition—the overall timeline may look a bit different.

Here’s how combining remodels can affect the bathroom’s timeline:

Shared Systems Require Smart Planning

When multiple spaces share plumbing, electrical, or HVAC systems (like a bathroom above a kitchen or next to a laundry room), the trades need to be carefully scheduled to avoid overlap or conflicts. This coordination may extend the timeline slightly—but it can also streamline efficiency if planned well.

Scope Often Expands (and That’s Okay)

It’s easy for “just a bathroom” to expand into adjoining spaces once demolition starts. Whether it's in phases or all together, if you’re already remodeling a primary suite or upper level, bathroom updates often get bundled into a larger reconfiguration. This broader scope can mean a longer timeline—but also better cohesion and long-term results.

Product Orders Can Be Streamlined

Ordering materials for multiple rooms at once can save time in the long run. Cabinets, countertops, and tile can be scheduled together, helping reduce delays caused by backorders or staggered deliveries.

timing depends on the bigger picture

In many multi-room projects, the bathroom isn’t the pace-setter. Kitchens, additions, or structural work tend to drive the overall schedule. So even if the bathroom itself only takes 6–8 weeks, it may be completed in a different timeline depending on how it fits into the master schedule.

why timelines vary

No two projects are the same. Factors that influence the duration of a remodel include:

• The size and scope of your project

• The availability and lead times of materials and fixtures

• Whether layout changes or plumbing/electrical updates are involved

• Permit turnaround times in your specific city

• The number of decisions you want to be involved in along the way

While it’s tempting to rush the process, a steady, well-planned timeline is often the best way to ensure a beautiful and lasting result.

Planning Your Own Remodel?

If you're thinking about remodeling your bathroom, start by mapping out your goals and budget, then find a contractor or design-build team that offers a clear process and timeline. The more organized your planning phase, the smoother the rest of the project will go.

Need help understanding what type of bathroom remodel is right for you? Check out our Bathroom Remodel Cost Breakdown for the Twin Cities to explore different levels of investment and what’s typically included.