Overview
Whole-home renovations update multiple areas at once, often including kitchens, baths, flooring, systems and layout changes. They require coordination of many trades and careful planning.
Phasing can make projects manageable. Some homeowners move out temporarily; others renovate in stages.
Older homes may reveal outdated systems or materials needing special handling, which affects budget and timeline.
Because whole-home projects touch so many systems, sequencing matters. Structural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing work usually happens before insulation, drywall and finishes, and inspections are often required at several stages. A clear schedule that shows those milestones makes it easier to plan around the work.
What to expect, step by step
- Comprehensive planning and design.
- Finishes throughout.
- Structural changes as needed.
- Permits and inspections.
- Demolition and system upgrades.
Key considerations
- Contingency budgets are important.
- Temporary housing may be needed.
- Systems upgrades can be cost-effective during renovations.
- Clear communication is essential.
- Hazardous materials may require testing.
Local notes for Colorado's Front Range
Basements are common in Colorado homes, which makes basement finishing a frequent project. Radon is present in many parts of Colorado, and state health officials recommend testing homes.
We take inquiries from Fort Collins, Boulder, Denver, Colorado Springs, Pueblo.
How to prepare your inquiry
- Decide what matters most: layout changes, storage, durability, appearance or budget, and list your must-haves and nice-to-haves.
- Collect a few photos of the current space and any inspiration images you like, along with rough room dimensions.
- Note the approximate age of the home. Older homes can involve outdated wiring, plumbing or materials that need special handling.
- If you belong to an HOA, check whether it has rules about contractors, work hours or approvals.
- Mention whether you plan to keep the current layout or move plumbing, walls or appliances, since that drives scope and cost.
Signs to slow down
- Vague answers about who will actually do the work and who supervises it.
- Suggestions to skip permits on work that normally requires them.
- No written warranty terms for workmanship.
- No references, or references that cannot be reached.
- A bid far below the others with no explanation of what is excluded.
What to ask before you commit
- How do you manage multiple trades?
- What's your approach to contingencies?
- Should we move out?
- How are change orders handled?
- What warranty do you provide?
Frequently asked
- How long does a whole-home renovation take?
- Timelines vary with scope, design and permits.
- What if problems are found during demo?
- Contractors typically document issues and discuss change orders.
- Should I renovate everything at once?
- It can be efficient, but phasing may suit budgets better.
Related topics
- Basement Finishing: What finishing a basement involves, moisture and egress considerations, and questions to ask a remodeler.
- Flooring: Choosing and installing flooring throughout a home, and questions to ask a flooring contractor.
- Home Additions: Planning a home addition, from zoning and design to construction, and questions to ask a contractor.
Tell us a little about what you need, and we'll get back to you about whole-home renovations.