How Long Does a Home Remodel Take in the Twin Cities?

Planning a home remodel is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming when you are trying to understand how long the process will take. Whether you live in Minneapolis, St. Paul, or a surrounding suburb, your project timeline depends on the type of remodel, the age of your home, the complexity of the work, and the availability of materials and permits.

This guide walks you through typical timelines we've seen at Willet Remodeling and Construction for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, additions, whole home renovations, and exterior projects throughout the Twin Cities. After reading this article, you will know what to expect at every stage.

In this guide:

• What Affects Remodeling Timelines
• Kitchen Remodel Timelines
• Bathroom Remodel Timelines
• Basement Remodel Timelines
• Home Addition Timelines
• Whole-Home Remodel Timelines
• Exterior Project Timelines
• How Twin Cities Seasons Impact Your Timeline
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Ready to Plan Your Remodel Timeline

What Affects Remodeling Timelines

Every home is different, and so is every remodel. Timelines depend on several key factors that can speed up or slow down the process. Here are the most common factors.

Age of the Home
Older homes in Minneapolis and St. Paul often need updates to plumbing, wiring, insulation, framing, or ventilation. These hidden improvements can extend the timeline but result in safer, longer lasting spaces.

Scope of Work
A simple refresh is quick, while full renovations that include demolition, layout changes, or mechanical upgrades naturally require more time. If you’re trying to compare budget alongside that scope, our remodeling cost guide is a solid way to see what those different levels typically look like price-wise.

Materials and Lead Times
Some products arrive quickly, while others, such as specialty cabinets or custom windows, may require several weeks.

Permits and Inspections
Permitting varies across Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the suburbs. Reviews and inspections can influence the project schedule.

Trade Coordination
Kitchen and bathroom remodels require multiple skilled trades. Scheduling plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and finish work in the right order is essential for quality and efficiency.

Kitchen Remodel Timelines

A kitchen remodel in Minneapolis is one of the most impactful projects you can take on. Timelines vary depending on how extensive the work is.

Refresh Kitchens: 4 to 6 weeks
Cosmetic updates like paint, lighting, minor repairs, and new fixtures.

Mid-Range Kitchens: 7 to 12 weeks
Semi-custom cabinetry, updated flooring, tile backsplash, countertop fabrication, and moderate layout adjustments.

Full Kitchen Renovations: 12 to 20 weeks
Custom cabinetry, structural changes, plumbing and electrical relocation, new appliances, and full layout redesigns.

Willet’s team focuses on clarity and communication throughout the process so homeowners always know what to expect.

Bathroom Remodel Timelines

Bathrooms in Minneapolis and St. Paul often require careful coordination between plumbing, electrical work, and waterproofing. Timelines reflect that complexity.

Refresh Bathrooms: 3 to 5 weeks
New vanity, fixtures, lighting, and paint.

Mid-Range Bathrooms: 6 to 9 weeks
Tile shower, updated plumbing, semi-custom cabinetry, and new flooring.

Full Bathroom Renovations: 9 to 14 weeks
Layout changes, custom tile work, heated floors, ventilation upgrades, and premium finishes.

A thoughtful approach ensures your new bathroom is comfortable, durable, and built to last.

Basement Remodel Timelines

Basement remodels add valuable living space and can transform how your home functions. Timelines depend on the features you include.

Basic Finishes: 6 to 10 weeks
Framing, drywall, flooring, lighting, and standard finishes.

Mid-Range Basements: 10 to 16 weeks
Bedrooms, larger living spaces, upgraded flooring, or added storage.

High-End Basement Suites: 16 to 24 weeks
Full bathrooms, wet bars, home theaters, gyms, custom built-ins, egress window installation, or moisture control solutions.

Willet creates basements that feel like natural extensions of your home rather than unfinished afterthoughts.

Home Addition Timelines

Home additions offer meaningful new space, but they also require careful planning, design, and engineering.

Small Additions: 12 to 18 weeks
Small bump outs, mudrooms, or compact bedroom expansions.

Medium Additions: 18 to 26 weeks
Primary suites, expanded living areas, or kitchen additions.

Large or Multi Room Additions: 26 to 40 weeks
Complex structural work or multi story expansions.

Additions often require foundation work, roofing integration, and full mechanical coordination. Clear project management is essential for a smooth experience.

Whole-Home Remodel Timelines

Custom whole-home renovations are the most comprehensive projects and completely reimagine your living space.

Partial Whole-Home Projects: 16 to 28 weeks
Multiple room updates without major structural changes.

Full Whole-Home Renovations: 28 to 52 weeks
New kitchen, new bathrooms, reconfigured layouts, mechanical upgrades, and cohesive finishes throughout the home.

With so many moving parts to a full home renovation in Minneapolis, trust and communication matter. Willet guides homeowners step by step so expectations remain clear from start to finish.

Exterior Project Timelines

Minnesota weather plays a big role in exterior project planning.

Roofing and Siding: 1 to 4 weeks
Size of the home and material type determine the timeline for roofing and siding projects.

Windows and Doors: 2 to 6 weeks
Lead time and installation complexity are major influences.

Decks and Outdoor Living: 4 to 12 weeks
Timelines for deck and porch projects are determined by material selections, size, railings, and custom features.

Exterior projects improve curb appeal and protect your home through every season.

How Twin Cities Seasons Impact Your Timeline

Midwestern seasons influence remodel timelines, especially exterior projects. Winter is ideal for interior remodels and design planning. Spring and summer are the busiest times to schedule trades and inspectors. Fall offers moderate weather but may include early scheduling constraints.

Understanding how outdoor temperatures and contractor availability shift throughout the year helps you plan your start date with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before we dive into the specifics, here are a few quick answers to the questions homeowners ask most often. If you are curious why timelines can stretch in older Twin Cities houses, the next section explains what is happening behind the walls and how it affects your schedule.

Why do remodels take longer in older Minneapolis and St. Paul homes?

Many Twin Cities homes were built long before modern building codes. Once walls are opened, crews may discover outdated wiring, plumbing, or framing that needs to be brought up to today’s standards. These improvements add time but create safer, more efficient homes.

When is the best time of year to remodel?

Interior projects can be completed at any time. Winter is often ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Exterior projects benefit from spring, summer, or early fall when temperatures are stable and materials install more easily.

How do permits affect the timeline?

Permits ensure your project is safe and code compliant. Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding suburbs each have their own processes. Approvals sometimes take several days or weeks, and inspections occur throughout construction.

What can slow down a remodel?

Material delays, unexpected structural issues, changes to the project scope, or limited access to trades can affect progress. Clear planning helps minimize disruptions.

How can I make my remodel go more smoothly?

Choose a contractor who communicates well, plan your selections early, and maintain flexibility with decisions. Willet’s team works closely with homeowners to anticipate challenges and keep projects on track.

Ready to Plan Your Remodel Timeline

Whether you are preparing for a kitchen remodel in Minneapolis, a bathroom renovation in St. Paul, or a full home renovation in a surrounding area, Willet Remodeling and Construction is here to guide you with clarity, care, and craftsmanship. If you are ready to start planning your project timeline or simply want honest guidance about what to expect, contact us to schedule a consultation. We would be honored to help bring your vision to life.