The Big Picture
Whole-home remodels are complex projects. Success depends on proper sequencing, realistic budgeting, and choosing the right team.
Should You Remodel or Move?
Before committing, consider:
- Cost of remodel vs. comparable home purchase
- Time you'll be displaced
- Hidden issues older homes may have
- Neighborhood value ceiling
- Personal attachment to current home
Planning Phase
Step 1: Prioritize Rooms
Rank by importance and ROI:
- Kitchen (highest ROI)
- Master bathroom
- Other bathrooms
- Living areas
- Bedrooms
- Basement
Step 2: Define Scope Per Room
For each area, decide:
- Full gut vs. refresh
- Layout changes (most expensive)
- Fixture upgrades
- Finish selections
Thoughtful planning leads to great results
Clear scope, accurate dimensions, and job-site photos help any project move faster. For current ASB work, that usually means welding, fabrication, gates, railings, stairs, and repair across Central Kentucky.
Step 3: Create a Realistic Budget
For Central Kentucky whole-home remodels:
- Refresh: $30-60 per sq ft
- Mid-range: $60-100 per sq ft
- High-end: $100-200+ per sq ft
Add 15-20% contingency for older homes.
Step 4: Plan the Sequence
Typical order:
- Demolition and structural
- Rough plumbing and electrical
- HVAC modifications
- Insulation and drywall
- Flooring (except finished wood)
- Cabinets and millwork
- Trim and doors
- Paint
- Finish flooring
- Fixtures and hardware
Living Arrangements
Option 1: Live Through It
- Most affordable
- Most disruptive
- Works for phased projects
Option 2: Partial Displacement
- Stay in unaffected areas
- Move between zones as work progresses
- Moderate disruption
Option 3: Move Out
- Fastest completion
- Additional rental cost
- Least stressful
Timeline Expectations
For a 2,000 sq ft home:
- Refresh: 2-4 months
- Mid-range remodel: 4-6 months
- Gut renovation: 6-12 months
Factors that extend timelines:
- Permit delays
- Material lead times
- Weather (for exterior work)
- Scope changes
Selecting Your Team
Options:
- General contractor: Manages everything
- Design-build firm: Design + construction
- Architect + GC: For complex projects
Questions to ask:
- Can I see similar completed projects?
- How do you handle change orders?
- What's your communication process?
- Who will be on site daily?
Start planning your project - we'll help you define scope, sequence, and budget.
Ready to Get Started?
If you have a live metalwork scope, we're here to help with welding, fabrication, gates, railings, stairs, and repair work across Nicholasville, Lexington, and Central Kentucky.
Request a Welding QuotePlan your next step
Use this article as planning reference, then contact ASB for active welding, fabrication, gate, railing, stair, and repair work across Nicholasville, Lexington, and Central Kentucky.
