A full home renovation is one of the most significant improvements a homeowner can make. It changes how your home functions, how it feels, and how it supports your lifestyle. But the first question almost every Vancouver homeowner asks is simple: how long does a renovation actually take from start to finish?
The truth is that timelines vary depending on the age of the home, the level of structural work involved, the complexity of design, material availability, and permitting. At KEEN Construction, we specialize in major home renovation and design-build projects that give homeowners a predictable, well-structured process. Our goal is to remove the guesswork so you know what to expect at every stage.
If you want to see real-world examples of timelines and finished work, you can browse our Case Studies to understand how different project sizes and complexities play out in real homes.
What Is Considered a Full Home Renovation?
A whole home renovation involves more than cosmetic improvements. It typically includes structural changes, layout modifications, complete mechanical updates, new insulation systems, modernized finishes, and performance upgrades. These deeper transformations are especially common in older Vancouver homes, where hidden issues often appear once walls are opened.
If your project includes removing walls, opening up the layout, replacing outdated mechanical systems, redesigning key rooms, or improving the energy efficiency of your home, it qualifies as a full home renovation.
Phase 1: Consultation and Planning
Estimated time: 1 to 3 weeks
Every renovation begins with understanding your goals. We discuss how you live, what isn’t working, and what you want your renovated home to achieve. During this stage, we identify structural constraints, assess the condition of the existing home, and map out the overall direction of the project.
A clear plan at this stage prevents delays later.
Phase 2: Design Development, Engineering, and Permitting
Estimated time: 4 to 12 weeks
This phase is where the project truly takes shape. We select materials, finalize the layout, complete architectural drawings, coordinate structural engineering, and prepare documentation for permitting. Vancouver permitting timelines vary based on scope, but structural changes and additions generally require more review time.
Because we operate as a design-build renovation contractor, communication stays seamless. The same team handling your construction is also involved in the planning, which avoids the back-and-forth delays common with separated designer-contractor workflows.
Phase 3: Site Preparation and Demolition
Estimated time: 1 to 3 weeks
Once permits are approved, construction begins with demolition. We remove old flooring, interior walls, damaged framing, mechanical systems, and any elements being replaced. Older homes often reveal surprises like old electrical, moisture intrusion, or insufficient insulation.
Identifying and solving these issues early is one of the reasons homeowners choose an experienced renovation contractor. Quick decision-making in this phase prevents small issues from turning into major delays.
Phase 4: Structural Work and Rough-In Stage
Estimated time: 4 to 8 weeks
This is the heart of the renovation. If your home is moving toward an open-concept layout, this is where beams are installed, walls are removed, and framing takes shape. Structural upgrades, seismic improvements, revised room layouts, and floorplan reconfiguration all occur here.
Mechanical rough-ins follow, including plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and ventilation. If the renovation includes envelope improvements such as upgraded insulation or new building-performance materials, we install them during this phase.
This stage lays the foundation for everything that comes next. When done properly, it ensures long-term comfort, efficiency, and durability.
Phase 5: Interior Finishes and Detail Work
Estimated time: 6 to 12 weeks
Once framing and mechanical systems are complete, the home begins to transform visually. Drywall is installed and finished. Cabinetry is built and fitted. Tile, flooring, trims, doors, lighting, paint, hardware, and fixtures are added.
Kitchens and bathrooms demand the most precision and coordination, so they typically consume the largest portion of this phase. Finishes often require lead times, so choosing materials early helps prevent schedule gaps.
If you’d like a deeper look into this type of work, our home renovation page outlines what is typically included at this stage.
Phase 6: Final Touches and Quality Review
Estimated time: 1 to 2 weeks
We conduct a full walkthrough of the home, check details room by room, test all systems, and complete touch-ups. Hardware is installed, fixtures are finalized, and your home is prepared for move-in.
At this point, the renovation is virtually complete. We provide guidance on caring for new materials and maintaining the comfort and performance of your upgraded home.
So How Long Does a Full Renovation Actually Take?
The average timeline for a complete home renovation in Vancouver is:
• 4 to 8 months for most full renovations
• 2 to 4 months for smaller interior remodels
• 9 to 12 months for large structural renovations or homes with additions
Factors that influence the timeline include permitting, extent of structural changes, material availability, custom design elements, and the condition of the existing home.
Having a coordinated design-build renovation team significantly reduces slowdowns caused by miscommunication or fragmented project management.
How Homeowners Can Help the Timeline Stay on Track
The biggest contributor to a smooth schedule is early decision-making. Choosing materials, finishes, and fixtures before construction prevents delays. Responding promptly to questions and being flexible when older homes reveal hidden issues also helps maintain momentum.
Timelines tend to suffer when decisions are postponed or when homeowners request changes after construction has started. A clear plan and consistent communication are critical.
Is a Full Home Renovation Worth the Time?
For many Vancouver homeowners, renovating is more practical than rebuilding. A well-executed renovation updates functionality, improves flow, enhances comfort, and significantly increases long-term value. It also gives you the opportunity to modernize without losing the character your home already has.
A thoughtful renovation transforms not only the space but how you live in it. The investment of time pays off for decades.
Ready to Plan Your Renovation?
If you’re considering an open-concept layout, a structural redesign, or a complete transformation of an older Vancouver home, we can guide you through every step from planning to completion.
To see the level of work involved in different renovations, explore our case studies.
