How Long Does a Renovation Take? A Timeline Guide for Melbourne Homes.

How Long Does a Renovation Take?

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is:

“How long will my renovation take?”

The truth is, every project is different — but having a realistic timeline helps you plan your family routine, budget, and expectations properly.

In this guide, we break down typical renovation timelines for Melbourne homes, explain what impacts the schedule, and share how we keep projects running smoothly.

Bathroom Renovation Timeline (Typical Guide)

Bathrooms are one of the most popular renovations because they make an immediate difference to daily comfort and home value — but they also require careful sequencing.

A typical bathroom renovation timeline may include:

1) Demolition & Strip-Out (1–3 days)

• Remove old tiles, fixtures, vanity, shower screens

• Prepare the space for plumbing and carpentry work

  
  

Tip: This stage can sometimes uncover hidden issues (water damage or uneven walls), which may add time.

2) Rough-In Works (2–5 days)

• Plumbing and electrical rough-in

• Framing adjustments

• Niche set-out and wall preparation

3) Waterproofing (1–2 days + curing)

Waterproofing is a critical stage. It needs time to be done properly and cure correctly before tiling begins.

4) Tiling & Grouting (4–10 days)

• Floor and wall tiling

• Feature wall set-out

• Grouting and silicone

Tip: Large-format tiles, complex layouts, or feature patterns can increase time (but also create a premium finish).

5) Fit-Off & Final Install (2–5 days)

• Vanity installation

• Tapware, shower set, accessories

• Toilet install

• Mirror and final detailing

6) Final Touches & Handover (1–2 days)

• Touch-ups and seal checks

• Final cleaning

• Handover walkthrough

Typical bathroom renovation timeframe: 3–6 weeks (depending on size, scope, and selections)

Kitchen Renovation Timeline (Typical Guide)

Kitchen renovations often involve multiple trades and lead times — especially with custom cabinetry and stone.

A typical kitchen renovation may include:

• Demolition and site prep (1–3 days)

• Plumbing and electrical rough-in (2–5 days)

• Cabinet installation (2–5 days)

• Benchtop measure + install (often 1–2 weeks lead time)

• Splashback installation (2–5 days depending on material)

• Final fit-off and testing (1–3 days)

Typical kitchen renovation timeframe:3–6 weeks (and longer if custom joinery lead times apply)

Full Home Renovation Timeline (Typical Guide)

Full home renovations can range from cosmetic updates to major reconfiguration.

This may include:

• Flooring replacement

• Painting

• Lighting upgrades

• Bathroom and kitchen upgrades

• Internal wall changes

• New joinery and built-in storage

Typical full home renovation timeframe:2–4 Months depending on scope and number of areas involved

Extension Timeline (Typical Guide)

Extensions generally take longer than renovations because they involve:

• structural stages

• external building works

• permits and inspections

• weather impact

A typical extension timeline may include:

• Planning & approvals (varies)

• Site set-out and demolition (if required)

• Foundations / framing

• Roofing and weatherproofing

• Rough-in services

• Internal linings, waterproofing, tiling, fit-off

• Final finishes and external completion

Typical extension timeframe:3–6+ Months depending on size and design complexity

What Causes Renovation Delays?

Even a well-planned renovation can face delays if key parts aren’t confirmed early.

Common causes include:

• Selections not finalised (tiles, tapware, vanity, benchtops)

• Backordered materials

• Design changes mid-build (variations)

• Hidden issues after demolition (water damage, uneven floors, old wiring)

• Weather delays (especially for extensions)

• Custom joinery lead times

How We Keep Renovations on Track

At Smarter Renovations, we focus on smooth delivery by:

• planning the project scope properly from the start

• supporting selections early (so materials are ready)

• using clear scheduling and trade coordination

• maintaining consistent communication throughout the build

• finishing with quality control and a clean handover

We believe the best renovation experience is one where clients always know what’s happening next.

Not Sure What Timeline to Expect? Let’s Talk

If you’re planning a renovation or extension, the best way to get clarity is to review the scope and understand your home’s existing conditions.

We’re happy to provide guidance and realistic timeframes based on your goals.

Ready to Plan Your Renovation Timeline?

Call us today or send an enquiry — we’ll help you understand the timeframe, next steps, and what to expect from start to finish.

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