In What Order Should Home Renovations Be Done? 8-Step Plan

Ever stand in the middle of a room and think, “Where in the world do I even start?”

Figuring out in what order you should tackle a home renovation can feel like a puzzle with a thousand pieces. It’s a huge project, especially if you’re in a place like Los Angeles, and it’s something most of us only do once.

I’ve been there, and I can tell you that a solid plan is your best friend.

This guide lays out a straightforward eight-step renovation plan. It will keep your kitchen remodel or bathroom upgrade moving smoothly, from the first swing of a hammer to the last brush stroke. Don’t even think about starting demolition until you’ve read this!

Pre-Renovation Planning

Before you even think about demolition, you need to get your finances in order. Think about your total budget and look into financing options like home equity lines of credit. It’s also crucial to inspect every corner of the house for potential issues like water damage or old lead-based paint to prevent major problems down the line.

How do I conduct a thorough home inspection?

Inspecting your house before a renovation is like checking the engine of your truck before a road trip. You want to catch any problems before you’re halfway down the highway.

1. Start Outside: Check the roof for missing shingles or signs of leaks. Look for cracks in the foundation, as even small gaps can signal bigger issues.
2. Check the Envelope: Look closely at siding and windows for rot or peeling paint. Test that all doors and windows seal properly to keep out drafts and pests.
3. Inspect Indoors: Look for stains or soft spots on ceilings, which often point to water leaks. Use a flashlight in the basement and attic to check for wood rot or termite damage.
4. Test the Systems: Check electrical outlets for flickering or sparking, which could mean outdated wiring. Under sinks, look for any signs of moisture that could hint at slow leaks in your kitchen plumbing.
5. Check for Hazmat: If your home was built before 1978, test for lead-based paint. You can get a kit like the 3M LeadCheck from a hardware store. Also be aware of other common hazards in older homes, like asbestos in old flooring or aging electrical panels.
6. Get a Professional Opinion: If you’re planning major changes, it’s worth hiring a licensed home inspector. They have the tools and experience to spot things you might miss.

A solid inspection ensures you fix things in the right renovation order. It helps you avoid nasty surprises after demolition that can blow up your budget faster than the interest on home equity lines of credit.

What permits do I need before starting renovations?

Don’t start your house renovation until you have the right permits from your local building office. While you might not need one for simple cosmetic changes, big jobs like moving walls, altering plumbing lines, or doing electrical work almost always require a permit.

In a city like Los Angeles, you’ll likely work with the Department of Building and Safety (LADBS). Permit costs can range from a few hundred dollars for simple electrical upgrades to thousands for major additions. Forgetting this step isn’t just a small mistake. It can lead to fines that are thousands of dollars, and the city could even make you tear out your brand-new work to get it inspected properly.

My buddy Mike learned this the hard way when an inspector made him rip down his new kitchen backsplash because he skipped the paperwork.

Always have a clear plan or drawing when you talk to city officials. Make sure your electricians and plumbers confirm whether their work meets national electric code standards and if it will require extra permits in your area. As my dad always said, “It’s better to sweat through paperwork now than pay twice later.”

Exterior Renovation Tasks

You should always start your renovation work on the outside of the house. Begin with any necessary roof and foundation repairs. Once the structure is sound, focus on sealing up the home’s envelope to improve insulation before you move on to any interior work.

How should I address roofing and foundation issues?

Roofing and foundation problems demand immediate attention. Fixing these issues first is the smartest move you can make, saving you a lot of money and stress later on.

1. Inspect the Foundation: Look for cracks, bowing walls, or sagging floors. If you see any of these, it’s time to hire a structural engineer.
2. Look for Water: Water stains in the basement are a red flag for bigger foundation problems.
3. Patch Small Cracks: You can use concrete patch kits from a home improvement store for minor cracks. This can prevent them from getting worse while you plan for larger repairs.
4. Call the Pros: For serious foundation issues, you’ll need professional help.
5. Check the Roof: Once the foundation is solid, check the roof for missing shingles, leaks, or any weak spots.
6. Fix Leaks Immediately: Replace broken tiles and patch leaks quickly to prevent water from damaging the inside of your home.
7. Get a Professional Evaluation: Always get a professional opinion for both roof and foundation work. A friend of mine used Los Angeles home remodeling services for his 70s house, and they fixed his sagging beams before touching anything else.

Ignoring warning signs like uneven floors can quickly turn your renovation into a financial disaster. Always address the structural beams and carpentry framing before moving on to plumbing or electrical work.

What are the best ways to improve weatherproofing and insulation?

Keeping your house dry and warm is not just about comfort, it saves you real money. I learned that the hard way after a big summer storm a few years back.

Here’s how to button up your house tight:

• Seal the Foundation: Patch any cracks with mortar to stop leaks before they can start.
• Upgrade Your Siding: Consider modern materials like James Hardie fiber cement siding. It costs about 10-15% more than vinyl upfront but is far more durable and can be repainted, which adds long-term value.
• Install Better Windows: Upgrade to double- or triple-pane glass to reduce heat loss.
• Add Spray Foam Insulation: While the walls are open, apply spray foam insulation. It’s great for blocking drafts and can significantly lower your utility bills.
• Weatherstrip Doors and Windows: This is a simple step that makes an instant difference on cold days.
• Insulate Floors: Use rigid foam board insulation under your floors for extra warmth, especially above a basement or crawl space.

These upgrades can also help you qualify for the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, which is part of the Inflation Reduction Act. This can give you up to $1,200 back per year for insulation and other energy-saving improvements. Upgrading your insulation not only saves money but also protects expensive finishes like countertops from warping due to moisture.

How do I fix structural concerns like walls and beams?

Dealing with walls and beams requires some serious focus, but getting it right pays off for years. I once opened up a wall and found a sagging joist, which was a real wake-up call.

• Inspect Everything: Use a flashlight and a level to check the entire house for foundation cracks, bowing walls, and sagging floors.
• Hire a Structural Engineer: If anything looks off with load-bearing walls or beams, don’t guess. Hiring a structural engineer for an inspection costs between $350 and $800 on average and is money well spent.
• Address Water Damage Immediately: If you find any water or mold problems, deal with them on the spot. Rotted wood can’t support your home.
• Schedule Structural Repairs First: All structural repairs need to happen before you even think about cosmetic work in bathrooms or kitchens.
• Get Your Permits: Make sure you have the right permits from your city’s building office before you start working.
• Reinforce, Don’t Always Replace: You can often reinforce beams or cracked joists with heavy-duty steel brackets or by “sistering” new lumber alongside the old. This is usually cheaper than a full replacement.
• DIY the Demo, Hire for Framing: You can save money by knocking out non-load-bearing drywall yourself, but leave the complex framing work to certified contractors.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=48mJz3N8wis

When and how should I upgrade plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems?

Once the main structure of your house is solid, it’s time to tackle the systems that make it run. Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems should all be upgraded before you install any insulation or drywall.

1. Start with Old Pipes: Leaky pipes can destroy new floors and fresh paint in an instant. If you have galvanized plumbing from before 1960, replace it with more reliable copper or PEX.
2. Call an Electrician: If your outlets spark or you want to add smart home upgrades, now is the time. Upgrading an electrical panel to 200 amps, which is the modern standard, typically costs between $1,800 to $2,500.
3. Replace Old HVAC Systems: Hire professionals to replace an old furnace or air conditioner. A full HVAC system replacement in 2025 can range from $8,000 to $20,000. Modern units like heat pumps can significantly cut your energy bills.
4. Work While Walls are Open: It’s much easier, faster, and cheaper to do this work when the studs and ceilings are exposed.
5. Get Permits Early: Order your city permits ahead of time to avoid fines or delays. Your contractor should know all about code compliance.
6. Double-Check Your Layout: While everything is open, make sure your layout is exactly what you want. Moving a toilet after the tile is down is a costly and messy job.
7. Test Everything: Before you close up the walls, test every valve, outlet, and switch to make sure it all works perfectly.

Interior Renovations

Now for the satisfying part. Tearing out old cabinets and putting a fresh coat of paint on the walls can instantly transform a tired room. This is where you really start to see the magic happen.

Why renovate kitchens and bathrooms first?

During a remodel, having your kitchen and bathrooms out of commission is a major disruption to your daily life. It’s best to tackle these rooms early to avoid months of eating takeout or having to run down the hall every time you need to use the restroom.

Contractors usually upgrade the plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems in these areas first, since old pipes and wires are often hidden behind cabinets and tile. According to the 2025 Cost vs. Value report, a minor kitchen remodel is one of the few interior projects that holds its value well, making it a smart investment. A midrange bath remodel also delivers a strong return, with an ROI of around 80%.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KnMe4LC22lc

If you have more than one bathroom, it makes sense to renovate them one at a time. That way, you’ll always have a functioning shower and won’t have to resort to using a garden hose in the backyard. These rooms also significantly boost your home’s value, as potential buyers often focus on updated countertops and modern sinks.

How do I properly paint walls and ceilings?

You’re looking for sharp paint lines and a professional finish, not a mess on your new floors. Here’s the right way to get your walls and ceilings looking great.

• Start with the Ceiling: Always paint the ceiling first. Gravity is not your friend, and it’s much easier to clean up drips from above.
• Prep is Everything: Before you even open a can of paint, make sure the drywall is properly taped, the joint compound is sanded smooth, and all the dust is cleaned up.
• Buy Quality Paint: It’s worth spending a bit more on high-quality paint from brands like Benjamin Moore or Sherwin-Williams. It lasts longer and covers better.
• Test Your Colors: Natural light can change how a color looks. Get a few samples and test them on the wall at different times of the day.
• Always Do Two Coats: One coat is rarely enough. A second coat ensures even coverage and a richer color.
• Use Painter’s Tape: Tape off all your trim, outlets, and baseboards to get clean lines and avoid tedious touch-ups.
• Use Angled Brushes for Corners: An angled brush will help you get clean lines where the walls meet the ceiling or windows.
• Cover Your Floors: Always use drop cloths to protect your floors from spills.

Last spring, I followed these steps when I painted my living room. When my buddy Tom came over, he thought I had hired a professional crew. A little prep and patience go a long way.

What is the best order for installing new flooring?

If you install your new floors too early, they’re going to take a beating. For a clean, professional finish, new flooring should be one of the last things you do in your renovation.

1. Finish All Major Construction First: Demolition, framing, and drywall work create a huge amount of dust and debris that can ruin new floors.
2. Complete Electrical and Plumbing Work: Saws, drills, and other tools used for these jobs can easily damage new flooring.
3. Paint Walls and Ceilings: Make sure all painting is done before you lay down any flooring. Paint splatter is tough to get off.
4. Lay Down Tile or Hardwood Last: Installing your floors after all the messy jobs are finished will protect them from dents and stains.
5. Coordinate with Your Contractor: Talk to your builder to schedule the flooring installation at the right time. This prevents other workers from walking all over your new floors.
6. Use Protective Covering: If you have to install cabinets or fixtures after the floors are in, use a heavy-duty protective covering like Ram Board to prevent damage.

Whether you’re installing hardwood, tile, or carpet, it will look its best if you wait until all the heavy lifting is done and the dust has settled. No one wants to try and clean paint out of a brand-new carpet.

Final Touches

The final steps are all about bringing the room together with cabinets, fixtures, and a bit of style. This is when your house really starts to feel like a home again.

How do I add cabinets, fixtures, and trim?

Cabinets, fixtures, and trim are the details that give your remodel its character and functionality. Getting them right is key.

1. Measure Carefully: Always measure twice before you order cabinets to avoid costly delays.
2. Order Early: Cabinets and heavy fixtures can take weeks to be delivered, so order them well in advance.
3. Install Base Cabinets First: In the kitchen, start with the base cabinets, making sure they are perfectly aligned with the walls and plumbing.
4. Hang Wall Cabinets Next: Anchor the wall units securely above the base cabinets, using a level to ensure the doors will close properly.
5. Protect Your Floors: When installing heavy cabinets, always lay down protection to keep your new floors from getting scratched.
6. Add Countertops: Once the cabinet frames are in place, you can install the countertops.
7. Install Hardware Last: Handles, knobs, faucets, and light fixtures should be installed after the cabinets are secure to give a polished look.
8. Finish with Trim: Use trim around the edges of the cabinets for a clean transition where they meet the walls or ceiling.

Now that everything is installed, it’s time to think about furniture and décor to make your new space comfortable and inviting.

What are tips for incorporating furniture and décor?

The heavy lifting is over, and your place is looking brand new. Now comes the fun part, where you get to put your personal stamp on your home.

• Invest in Quality Pieces: A solid oak table or a durable leather sofa will last for years and give the room a rugged, lived-in feel.
• Measure Your Rooms: Make sure you measure your space before you buy any furniture. An oversized couch can make a room feel cramped.
• Choose Functional Furniture: Look for pieces that can serve multiple purposes, like a storage ottoman or a bed frame with built-in drawers.
• Stick with Neutral Wall Colors: Soft grays or warm off-whites are versatile and work well with most décor styles.
• Layer Different Textures: Mix things up with smooth leather, chunky wool throws, and matte-finish wood for more visual interest.
• Hang Art at Eye Level: A good rule of thumb is to hang pictures so the center is about 57 inches from the floor.
• Add Some Greenery: Plants like spider plants or rubber trees are low-maintenance and can improve air quality.
• Install Dimmers: Dimmers on your lights allow you to easily change the mood of a room.

How will home renovation strategies change in 2025?

In 2025, you can expect home renovations to focus heavily on energy efficiency. Think about upgrades like HVAC heat pumps, better insulation, and smart thermostats that can help lower your utility bills.

Builders will be using more eco-friendly materials, such as bamboo flooring and recycled steel. In California, new building codes like Title 24 are pushing for more all-electric homes and better indoor air quality. You can expect building inspections to be much stricter about these green upgrades.

Smart home technology will also become more common. Things like Wi-Fi-enabled appliances and voice-activated lighting will start to be seen as standard features. You’ll also see more homeowners preparing for solar panels and battery backup systems to reduce their carbon footprint and add value to their homes.

These changes aren’t just good for the environment, they can also save you a lot of money. Making your home more energy-efficient can cut your energy bills and increase your home’s resale value.

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