A full home renovation is exciting — but without a clear plan, it can feel overwhelming. At Gennaro Contracting, serving Shelton, WA, and the surrounding areas, we’ve helped hundreds of families transform their homes with confidence. While every project is unique, there is a typical timeline most renovations follow. Knowing what to expect helps you stay calm, prepared, and excited about your future space.
If you’re thinking about a renovation and asking yourself, “How long will this take? What happens first? What about permits?” — you’re in the right place. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to what a full home renovation timeline really looks like.
We’ll Help You Through Your Renovation Journey
Before we dive in, here’s how to read this:
- You (the homeowner) want a home that fits your life — more function, beauty, and value.
- The challenge is… renovations are complex, involve many steps, and can feel unpredictable.
- Gennaro Contracting is your guide: we provide clarity, communication, and a smooth process from start to finish.
Ready? Let’s walk through the journey.
Phase 1: Discovery & Visioning — 1 to 2 Weeks
What happens?
This is where your renovation story begins.
You reach out to Gennaro Contracting with an idea — maybe it’s a kitchen makeover, opening up interior walls, or a whole-home refresh. We meet with you (in person or virtually) to talk about:
- Your goals and priorities
- Your style and aesthetic preferences
- Your budget range
- What must be included (and what’s nice-to-have)
No decisions yet — just visioning.
Outcome: A shared understanding of what you want and what’s realistic.
Phase 2: Design & Planning — 2 to 6 Weeks
What happens?
Once your goals are clear, we begin design work.
This phase includes:
- Detailed measurements of your home
- Drafting floor plans and elevations
- Choosing materials (cabinets, floors, fixtures)
- Budget refinement based on selections
- Initial bids from subcontractors
During this phase, you’ll likely meet with designers or architects. You’ll make choices — shingles or tile? Quartz or granite? White cabinets or something bolder?
This phase can take longer if:
- Structural changes are involved
- Custom elements are specified
- Permits require engineered drawings
Outcome: A complete renovation plan and a clearer price, often with line-item details.
Phase 3: Permitting & Approvals — 2 to 6+ Weeks
What happens?
Before any construction begins, permits are required.
In Shelton and Mason County, permits may be needed for:
- Structural changes
- Electrical alterations
- Plumbing moves
- Roofing or exterior work
Getting permits can feel slow because you’re waiting on the city or county. But it’s essential — and we handle this for you.
Gennaro Contracting prepares and submits all permit documents and coordinates with inspectors.
Tip: The permitting stage is often the biggest timeline “wild card.” Don’t worry — we’ll keep you updated.
Outcome: Official approval to begin renovation work.
Phase 4: Pre-Construction Planning — 1 to 2 Weeks
What happens?
While permits are processing, we do final prep:
- Shop for materials that have long lead times
- Lock in subcontractors and schedule
- Prepare a demolition plan
- Send you a finalized timeline calendar
You’ll receive a pre-construction packet so you know:
- When crews arrive
- Which areas will be blocked off
- What to protect (floors, furniture, landscaping)
Outcome: A detailed schedule and peace of mind before work begins.
Phase 5: Construction — 4 to 16+ Weeks
The heart of the renovation is the build-out. The timeline varies widely depending on project size:
Typical Construction Breakdown
Week 1 – Demolition & Site Prep
Crews remove old fixtures, floors, walls, etc. — usually the messiest part.
Week 2–4 – Structural & Rough-In Work
Framing, plumbing, electrical, HVAC work…
Week 5–8 – Walls, Cabinetry, & Flooring
Drywall gets installed and painted. Cabinets and floors go in.
Week 8–12 – Finishes & Fixtures
Lighting, hardware, countertops, plumbing fixtures…
Week 12–16 – Final Touches
Trim, touch-ups, cleaning, and final inspections.
For a whole-home renovation that includes multiple rooms or additions, expect closer to 12–16+ weeks.
Outcome: Your home starts looking like your vision.
Phase 6: Inspection & Walkthrough — 1 Week
What happens?
Before we hand the keys back to you, we:
- Coordinate final inspections
- Review work with you, room by room
- Create a punch list (final fixes)
- Ensure everything operates correctly
You sign off only when you’re confident and satisfied.
Outcome: A professionally certified renovation you’re proud of.
Phase 7: Living in Your Renovated Home — Ongoing
You’ve made it! Now the fun part begins — enjoying daily life in your refreshed, redesigned space.
And even after completion, Gennaro Contracting stands by our work — we provide:
- Warranty details
- Care instructions for new materials
- Contact support for future questions
Helpful Resources for Your Renovation Journey
Here are some trusted guides to help you learn more as you prepare:
Home Remodeling Checklist — HomeAdvisor offers a comprehensive step-by-step list to keep your project organized.
Construction Budget Worksheet — A downloadable tool to track spending.
Permit Guide for Washington State Homeowners — Understand local requirements before you start.
Design Inspiration Galleries — Houzz and Pinterest boards to refine your style.
Final Thoughts
A full home renovation is a big undertaking — but it doesn’t have to feel chaotic. With clear stages, realistic expectations, and a trusted partner like Gennaro Contracting, your renovation can be a smooth, exciting transformation.
Whether it’s a kitchen, bathroom, or a total home update in Shelton, WA, we help you:
- Understand the timeline
- Avoid surprises
- Make confident decisions
- Love your renovated home
