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Planning your next Project
An important part of planning your next home project is understanding the general timeline of remodeling projects in the Twin Cities. How long should it take? There are several factors that can influence this timeline.
- Client Decision-Making: Timely and decisive decisions on materials or designs help keep projects moving. Delays in client approvals can stall progress.
- Project Scope: While it may be obvious, larger remodels and homes take more time than smaller ones. The degree of changes to mechanicals (HVAC, plumbing, electrical) affects overall timelines. Additionally, any scope increases during the project will also add to the timeline.
- Permits and Inspections: Securing permits and passing inspections can vary based on project complexity and the workload at local municipalities. Homes in watershed districts should allow plenty of time for thorough plan reviews and scrutiny. Delays here can slow progress.
- Material Availability: Global, regional, or local supply chain issues or material shortages can delay construction, especially for custom or high-end materials. The lead time for windows, for example, can be months from manufacturers. Early planning helps, but some delays are beyond control.
- Labor Availability: Skilled trade partners can be booked for weeks or even months in advance. Delays in scheduling key subcontractors like electricians or plumbers can create bottlenecks. Early coordination helps avoid this.
- Weather Conditions: Harsh Minnesota winters can slow or halt outdoor work like pouring foundation or exterior installations including roofing, windows, and siding. Extremely wet conditions can prevent site grading and landscaping from moving forward. Spring Load Restrictions due to thawing roads can be sudden (3-day notice) and prevent heavy equipment or materials from getting to your home.
- Unforeseen Changes: Concealed issues like outdated wiring, water damage, or hidden structural issues often arise in older homes, requiring extra work that can extend the schedule.
A Timeline
While every project has its own set of surprises, the timeline below outlines the key phases of a typical design-build project. Keep in mind that the timeline may change due to unexpected circumstances, but this guide should give you a solid starting point.
Selecting Your Contractor: 1-2 months
Your home project journey starts with selecting a general contractor who will guide you through their process. You should choose a design-build general contractor that you trust. Trust takes time to earn – so we recommend reading testimonials, looking for awards they have won, and consulting neighbors, friends, or family-members who have had a positive experience with their home project. Your contractor should have a portfolio of past jobs with designs that match what you like aesthetically (their website, Pinterest, and Houzz). And lastly, your contractor should be licensed with the MN Department of Labor and Industry, and you should ask to see their Certificate of Insurance (COI).
Designing your Project: 1-5 months
With your design-build general contractor chosen, you will need to define the project scope, budget, and goals of your project. Typically, you will sign a Design Agreement with your contractor that outlines exactly what you will receive in terms of their design services.
Architects and designers will collaborate with you to understand your aesthetic preferences and how you and your family want to use your new space. This will be a process that takes several meetings to work through. Depending on the scope of your project and availability to meet, this can take several months to complete.
Pre-Construction: 2-4 weeks
With the designs finalized and a signed Construction Contract, your project will move into the pre-construction phase. Your contractor will be working to obtain permits, order materials, schedule labor, and create a construction timeline. This phase is crucial for streamlining construction and ensuring that everything is prepared.
Construction: 3-12+ months
Your construction timeline will vary on the scope of work and other factors listed above. Common stages of construction include site protection, demolition, framing, mechanical rough-ins, insulation, drywall, flooring, cabinetry, painting, mechanical finishes, appliances, and hardware installation.
Near the end of construction your contractor will collaborate with you on a final punch list for any remaining items needed to complete your project. Make sure to carefully observe any finishes that have been scuffed or any mechanical issues before signing off on your project.
Warranty: 1, 2, and 10 years
After construction is complete, you can finally enjoy your new space!
The State of Minnesota protects consumers against home improvement defects as set forth in Minnesota Statutes chapter 327A. All faulty workmanship and defective materials are covered for 1 year. All faulty mechanical systems are covered for 2 years. And any structural issues are covered for 10 years. While you are responsible for contacting your contractor if you have any items covered under warranty, reputable design-build contractors will proactively reach out to see if there are any items needing warranty work.
Conclusion
Planning a home remodel in the Greater Minneapolis Area requires more than just a solid design—it demands flexibility, strategic timing, and a solid understanding of the challenges that can affect your project. By being aware of the factors that influence remodeling timelines, you can better prepare for potential delays and work closely with your contractor to keep your project on schedule.
Remodeling is a significant investment in your home and quality of life, so patience and clear communication are key to ensuring a successful outcome. A well-prepared plan and an experienced team will help navigate these complexities, resulting in a beautifully transformed space that fits your vision.
Want more information about timelines for MA Peterson projects? See Our Process.
