From Dream to Reality: Key Steps in a Home Remodeling Project in The Woodlands, Texas

With so much going on during a full home remodel, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with details. To make sure you don’t miss any key steps, we’ve covered some essentials here, such as timeline expectations, permits, design, and working with a project manager. If you want to learn more about full home renovations with Refresh, check out our service page. 

An overview of the process for a full home remodel in The Woodlands

All renovation companies and remodeling contractors in Houston have their own approaches to home improvement projects. Some focus on speed, some on value, and others on craftsmanship. At Refresh, we aim to check all the boxes, the most important one being your experience. Our process was designed with homeowners in mind and includes:

• Briefing/initial consultation
• Concept designs and feasibility
• Working drawings and a cost estimate
• Active construction
• Final project delivery

Typical timelines and how to plan your remodel

You can’t compare how long it will take to complete a small bathroom remodel to a full home renovation timeline. Every project has a different scope, and when you throw in other factors such as supply chain, material selection, and local contractor availability, there’s no hard and fast rule about how long something should take. That’s why we’ve built this conversation into our 5-step process so homeowners can get all the information before committing to a project.  

Here are a few things to consider when planning your remodel and how they may affect your schedule:

Interior design

Whether you’re working with a professional or have your own ideas, nailing down the interior design plans beforehand will save you time and money in the end – making decisions on the fly is never a smart idea. Plus, having a well, thought out design helps make schedule estimates more accurate. For example, if you want to import custom Carrara marble directly from Italy for your Houston remodeling project, be ready for an exercise in patience.  

Structural changes

Cosmetic updates are usually simpler to execute than structural changes. But a new layout can have a significant positive impact on the use of your home, so it just depends on what your goals are. If you’re crunched for time, a like-for-like renovation may be a better option. 

Applying for permits

Some home remodeling projects will be exempt but others will need permits, especially if you live in a master-planned community or historic property. You should build the application process into your timeline as these things aren’t known to move quickly. Oftentimes, you can discuss alternative plans that won’t require permits to save time and money. 

For more tips about planning (and adding value) to your renovation, check out this article. 

Working with a project manager

It may be tempting to take on smaller DIY projects, and you might even be great at it! But there’s no doubt about it, professional project managers know their stuff. From questions about local regulations, such as do I need a permit to remodel your bathroom to dealing with contractors’ challenging schedules, having a professional on your side will alleviate a lot of unnecessary stress, especially during the active construction period. 

At Refresh, our Remodeling Consultants act as project managers, but they’re with you from start to finish, not just during construction. They’ll guide you through our 5-step process which includes an initial consultation, thorough concepting to introducing and refining ideas, cost estimates, building, and final project delivery. 

Common FAQs for Home Remodels in The Woodlands, Texas

What kind of hidden costs may I encounter during a renovation?

Since the majority of homes in The Woodlands were built relatively recently, it’s unlikely you’ll be surprised with structural issues, lead, or asbestos. But it’s not impossible! However, there are other things that may incur additional costs such as extraneous permits, change orders, or pests. Most professionals recommend building a 3-5% contingency fund into your budget to account for the unexpected.

My bathroom is 20 years old. How often should I remodel my bathroom?

You’ve heard the expression “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it”. And while that may be true, you can renovate your bathroom as often as you see fit. We’ve helped homeowners completely transform their new build homes to give them personality and we’ve also worked on properties that are 100 years old still with the original features.There’s no hard and fast rule! 

Improving functionality, replacing old materials with low maintenance, gaining a new aesthetic, and installing energy efficient appliances are all great reasons to renovate! But age? That’s just a number. 

What kind of kitchen remodeling services does Refresh offer in The Woodlands?

Whatever you can think of, we can help! From concept design visualisation to professional project management and precision execution, our team works with an extensive network of industry experts to make sure your project is completed to the highest degree of quality and craftsmanship. Click here to learn more about how we make kitchen renovations easy. 

Need help bringing your ideas to life?

First, we need to hear them! So get in touch with a local Remodeling Consultant in The Woodlands to arrange an initial consultation.