How Long Does a Home Addition Take?
“How soon can I move into my new addition?” This is one of the most common questions homeowners ask us when discussing their home addition and renovation project. As a trusted Design-Build contractor in Pittsburgh, our team at Action Builders can identify the stages of a home addition project for you and help you establish a realistic timeline from start to finish. You’ll get to see that your new renovation meets your expectations and be able to stay in the home you love.
Phases of a Home Addition Project
Every design-build home addition timeline should include 2 main phases:
1. Design
In the design phase, your contractor will get an idea about what you’re looking to do, take measurements and obtain ballpark estimates. They’ll work on floor plans based on your financial verification and a design agreement. Last, you’ll complete the planning process by selecting materials and finishes.
2. Construction
The construction phase is where your dreams become reality. Your contractor will start with demolition and any foundation work. Once framing, electrical, insulation and drywall are added, they’ll shore up the exterior with siding and windows and get to work on the interior finishes.
Monthly Estimated Timeline For a Home Renovation
Month 1
Initial Planning and Ballpark Pricing (4 weeks)
Every project begins with understanding a homeowners wishlist, what’s possible for their home addition and renovation in regards to actual work required and . This step includes:
- Site consultation
- Ballpark pricing
Month 2-3
Design process (8 weeks)
The design process can be the most exciting step yet, where the ideas for your home renovation are put on paper. A good design builder will:
- Measure and investigate your house
- Provide initial drawings with options to choose from
- Help you finalize scope of work
- Finalize the design drawing and deliver contract
Month 3-4
Signed Contract (8 weeks)
A successful construction phase is dependent on a finalized scope of work and drawings that will guide the construction process. This step includes:
- Complete construction drawings
- Compare drawings to scope of work and submit for permit & plan review
- Plan review and revisions, acquire permit, and select material
Month 5-7+
Construction (14+ weeks)
Depending on the extent of your project, the construction phase could range from 12-18 weeks and will include:
- Exterior demolition and/or foundation installed
- Framing and interior demolition to prep for rough mechanical work
- Rough mechanical work, insulation, drywall, roofing & siding
- Wall & ceiling painting, flooring, tile work, doors, trim, cabinets
- Kitchen tops, back splash, trim paint, finish mechanicals, punch list
Need more information about home additions and interior remodeling before pursuing a project?
See our Addition and Remodeling Guides to learn:
- Why hiring a design-builder is in your best interest
- Top projects that solve the biggest problems for Pittsburgh homes (Check out options for Cape Cod homes too!)
- Budget and planning tips to get the best outcome for whole-home renovations or additions
A Realistic Construction Timeline for Common Remodels and Additions
Determining a full timeline for your home remodel is largely dependent on the scope of areas being renovated during the construction phase. Of course, the more areas needing planned for can extend your design timeline as well, but here are some typical timelines you can count on when adding more rooms to your home remodel or addition project:
Kitchen and Great Room
(5-7 weeks)
One of the top requested additions is to extend a cape cod style home out the back on the first floor to make room for a bigger kitchen and great room with an open floor plan. These additions typically require 5-7 weeks during the construction phase.
Bathroom
(2-4 weeks)
More bathroom space to accommodate growing children and guests is usually an add-on option for many home renovations. Depending on the size and scope of bathroom(s) being added or renovated, these could add an additional few weeks or a month to your construction timeline.
Master Bedroom and Ensuite
(4-6 weeks)
Adding a second floor bedroom retreat with a larger bathroom and closet area is an appealing home addition option for growing families and even empty nesters looking to make use of their newly acquired space. The extent of demolition required may affect your timeline, but typically, you can count on adding 4-6 weeks for this portion of your project.
2-Story Rear Home Addition
(12-18 weeks)
Cape Cod home architecture is plenteous in Pittsburgh. Many Cape Cod homeowners find a 2-story home addition at the rear of their home to be the best investment. They’re able to enlarge their kitchen, create a great room space with an open floor plan and then include a master bedroom and bathroom above. Some opt for a gameroom or, depending on their home’s existing space and their remodeling budget, more bedroom and bathroom spaces on the second floor. As the scope of a second story addition is so large, this timeline could require 12-18 weeks of construction.
Factors That Affect Timelines
Keep in mind that in every remodeling project, moving or installing new electrical and plumbing will always extend your timeline. While ordering customized specialty cabinetry or finishes may give you the look you desire, shipping timelines could also add to your estimated timeline needs.
Design-Build Construction You Can Trust
The best way to start your home addition is to consult with a knowledgeable design-builder like Action Builders. Our team has helped hundreds of Pittsburgh homeowners develop their home addition ideas and get the most out of their home’s space. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, we’ll help you face your home addition challenges too!
When you choose to renovate and invest in the home you love, you’ll expand your space to live, work, and play, You’ll enjoy a beautiful, functional home addition, while having confidence in a home addition that is structurally-sound.