How Long Does a Home Renovation Really Take?

If you’re planning a home renovation in Massachusetts, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: “How long will this take?” The answer depends on the size of the project, the scope of work, and the age of your home. At Somma Builders, a trusted Massachusetts general contractor, we’ve guided homeowners across Boston, Newton, Cambridge, Lexington, Woburn, and beyond through renovations of all sizes—from quick bathroom remodels to full home transformations.

Here’s what you can expect when planning your project.

Typical Timelines for Common Renovations

Kitchen Remodels

• Average Duration: 6–12 weeks
  Kitchens require plumbing, electrical, cabinetry, and finishes. A smaller update may take 6 weeks, while a full redesign with custom cabinetry and layout changes can take closer to 3 months.

Bathroom Remodels

• Average Duration: 4–8 weeks
  Bathrooms are smaller but involve multiple trades: plumbing, tiling, electrical, and fixtures. High-end finishes or relocating plumbing lines can add more time.

Basement Finishing

• Average Duration: 8–12 weeks
  Converting a basement into livable space (family room, office, gym, or in-law suite) can vary depending on whether waterproofing, insulation, or egress windows are required.

Home Additions

• Average Duration: 3–6 months
  Additions involve foundation work, framing, and integrating the new space with the existing home. Weather can also play a role in Massachusetts, especially during the winter.

Whole-Home Renovations

• Average Duration: 6–12 months
  Full-scale remodels require careful planning, permitting, and coordination across every trade. These projects transform the home but demand the most patience.

Factors That Can Impact Renovation Timelines

1. Permits and Inspections – Towns across Massachusetts like Andover, Arlington, Belmont, and Brookline all have their own approval processes.

2. Material Lead Times – Custom cabinetry, specialty tiles, or imported fixtures can delay progress.

3. Seasonal Challenges – Snow and freezing temperatures in Lexington, Weston, and Woburn may affect outdoor construction.

4. Unexpected Issues – Older homes in Cambridge, Concord, and Newton often reveal hidden surprises like outdated wiring or structural problems.

Why Working with a General Contractor Matters

Hiring an experienced general contractor ensures your project stays on track. At Somma Builders, we:

• Provide realistic timelines from the start

• Handle permits and inspections across towns from Framingham to Fitchburg, Natick to Needham, and Sudbury to Stoneham

• Coordinate subcontractors efficiently

• Keep you updated at every stage of the project

Plan Ahead for Success

Every renovation is unique, but with the right planning—and the right general contractor—you can avoid unnecessary delays. Whether you’re updating a kitchen in Lowell, finishing a basement in Hudson, or renovating an entire home in Waltham, our team ensures the process is smooth and predictable.

Ready to Start Your Massachusetts Renovation?

Contact Somma Builders today to discuss your project. From Boston to Bedford, Medford to Melrose, and Winchester to Westwood, we’re here to bring your renovation vision to life.