Realistic Texas Renovation Timelines for 2026
Last Updated: June 24, 2026 | Burton Residential Services — Montgomery, TX
4–8
weeks
Kitchen Remodel
2–4
weeks
Bathroom Remodel
3–6
months
Whole House
Home renovations are exciting — but they're also disruptive. Knowing how long each phase takes helps you plan around holidays, weather, and daily life. In Texas, you also need to factor in things like hurricane season (June–November), extreme summer heat that can slow outdoor work, and the busy spring construction season when contractors book up fast.
Below, we break down realistic timelines for the most common renovation projects in Montgomery County and Greater Houston — based on our actual experience as a local general contractor.
The #1 Cause of Delays
Scope changes after work begins. Every "while you're here, could you also..." adds days or weeks. The best way to stay on schedule? Make all your decisions before demolition starts. We'll cover this in detail below.
Finalize cabinet, countertop, and appliance selections. Demolition of old kitchen — cabinets, flooring, and backsplash removed. Electrical and plumbing rough-in begins. Dumpster on site.
Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work completed. Drywall installed, taped, and finished. Subfloor prepared for new flooring. First inspection may occur during this phase.
Cabinetry delivered and installed. Flooring laid (hardwood, tile, or LVP). Countertops templated — typically a 1-week gap between template and installation for stone counters.
Countertops installed. Backsplash tile work. Sink, faucet, and appliances connected. Lighting fixtures installed. Cabinet hardware and trim work completed.
Paint touch-ups, caulking, and final adjustments. Final inspection. Deep cleaning. Walkthrough with your contractor — note any remaining items on a punch list for completion.
What Can Add Time:
Demolition — vanity, toilet, tub/shower, flooring removed. Plumbing rough-in for new fixtures. Electrical rough-in for lighting and vent fan. Waterproofing and shower pan installed. First inspection.
Shower/tub surround tile installed. Floor tile laid throughout. Grout work. Vanity and countertop installation. Mirror and medicine cabinet mounted.
Toilet set and connected. Faucets, shower head, and trim installed. Lighting fixtures and exhaust fan connected. Paint and caulking. Accessories — towel bars, toilet paper holder, etc.
Final plumbing and electrical inspection. Punch list items addressed. Deep cleaning. Final walkthrough and sign-off.
1–2 weeks
Includes power washing, scraping, priming, and 2 coats. Weather-dependent — Texas summer storms can add days.
8–16 weeks
Foundation, framing, roofing, electrical, HVAC, drywall, flooring, and finishes. Larger than a typical remodel — this is new construction.
1–5 days
Standard residential fence. Depends on yard size, terrain, material, and whether old fence needs removal. 811 utility locate adds 2–3 days before digging.
2–5 days
One room. Installation is relatively quick — most time is spent on precise cutting, fitting, and finishing.
A whole-house renovation typically includes kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, paint, and possibly structural changes. The timeline depends heavily on the home's size and condition. Here's a rough breakdown:
Choose every finish, fixture, and material before the first hammer swings. Cabinet style, countertop material, tile, paint colors, hardware — have them all selected and ordered. This is the single biggest factor in staying on schedule.
Custom cabinets can take 4–12 weeks to arrive. Special-order tile, plumbing fixtures, and light fixtures can take 2–6 weeks. Order everything as soon as your contract is signed.
Avoid starting exterior work during hurricane season (June–November). Summer heat can affect paint curing and exterior work schedules. Spring and fall are ideal for most renovation projects in Houston.
Every "while you're here" adds days or weeks. If you think you might want additional work, include it in the original scope. Changes mid-project are the #1 cause of timeline blowouts.
A contractor who knows Montgomery County permitting, has established supplier relationships, and understands Texas building conditions will keep your project moving. Inexperienced or out-of-area contractors often cause costly delays.
Get a free, no-obligation estimate from Burton Residential Services. We'll give you a realistic timeline based on your specific project — no surprises, no runaround.