When Remodeling a House What Comes First?

When Remodeling a House, What Comes First? A Washington Homeowner’s Guide

Planning a home remodel in Washington is an exciting opportunity to enhance comfort, functionality, and resale value. Whether you’re modernizing a dated kitchen, reworking your layout, or tackling a full gut renovation, the process can be overwhelming without a clear renovation plan. One of the most common questions homeowners ask is: when remodeling a house what comes first?

At S&E Remodeling, we understand that every successful project starts with proper planning. With years of experience serving homeowners across Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and surrounding areas, we know how to prioritize each renovation stage for maximum efficiency and lasting results. Understanding when remodeling a house what comes first is key to staying on track.

Why Order Matters in Home Remodeling Projects

Avoiding Budget Overruns and Delays

Following the proper renovation order ensures that each phase builds upon the last. When remodeling work is done out of sequence, unexpected issues can emerge, leading to change orders, rework, and extra expenses.

Ensuring Safety and Compliance

Electrical upgrades, load-bearing changes, and plumbing reroutes all require code compliance. Starting with these structural elements minimizes safety risks and ensures that new finishes aren’t damaged during the process.

Maximizing Workflow and Project Efficiency

An organized renovation timeline saves time. It allows contractors to coordinate seamlessly, keeps deliveries on schedule, and prevents backtracking—all of which shorten your overall timeline. Knowing when remodeling a house what comes first allows your contractor to schedule each trade efficiently.

What Comes First When Remodeling a House?

Step 1: Planning and Budgeting

Before a single tool is lifted, you need a clear vision. If you’re unsure when remodeling a house what comes first, always begin with planning.

Define your goals: Are you remodeling to improve functionality, boost resale value, or accommodate a growing family?
Establish your budget: Set a realistic amount that includes a 10% contingency buffer.
Secure financing: Explore savings, home equity loans, or renovation-specific financing programs.

Step 2: Inspection and Structural Assessment

Start by understanding your home’s existing condition:

Foundation stability
Roofing condition
Mold, water damage, or pest issues
Electrical panel capacity

Addressing these early can prevent costly problems during construction. It’s a major consideration when remodeling a house what comes first.

Step 3: Design and Layout Finalization

Work with an architect or remodeling expert to design your ideal space. Choose finishes, flooring, cabinetry, and paint colors.

Layout planning (especially for kitchens and bathrooms)
Material selection and sourcing
Final drawings and scope documentation

Knowing when remodeling a house what comes first also involves understanding how design decisions shape the rest of the remodel.

Step 4: Permits and Regulations in Washington

Depending on your location and project scope, permits may be required for:

Electrical and plumbing upgrades
Roof modifications or structural changes
Additions or basement finishing

Washington cities like Bellevue and Redmond may also require environmental or historical district approvals. S&E Remodeling handles all permitting for a smooth and legal remodel.

The Typical Remodeling Order by Area of the Home

Structural and Foundation Work

These are the bones of your home. Reinforce beams, footings, and load-bearing walls before anything cosmetic is added.

Roof and Exterior Repairs

Prevent leaks or drafts by addressing:

Roofing replacements
Gutter installation
Window and siding repairs

Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Upgrades

This “behind-the-walls” work comes next:

Updating old pipes
Installing new electrical circuits
Replacing HVAC systems or ductwork

Framing and Drywall

After the utilities are updated:

Frame new walls, doors, or ceilings
Install insulation
Hang and finish drywall

Painting and Flooring

Interior painting comes before flooring to avoid spills. Then install:

Hardwood or laminate
Tile in kitchens or baths
Carpeting for bedrooms or basements

Kitchen and Bathroom Installations

Install cabinetry, countertops, sinks, and lighting once walls and floors are ready.

Finishing Touches and Decor

Finally, add the polish:

Fixtures and hardware
Backsplashes
Mirrors and shelving
Final coat of paint, if needed

What Are the Signs It’s Time to Remodel Your House?

Outdated Layout or Inefficient Use of Space

Closed-off kitchens, awkward rooms, or underused areas can be redesigned for modern living.

Damage, Wear, or Code Violations

If your home has water damage, peeling finishes, or unsafe wiring, remodeling is often more cost-effective than repeated repairs.

Growing Family or Lifestyle Changes

Need a home office, an extra bedroom, or accessible features for aging in place? Remodeling can help your living spaces grow with you.

Plans to Sell or Increase Home Value

Updated kitchens and baths significantly boost resale value, especially in competitive markets like Kirkland or Federal Way.

How Much Does a Full House Remodel Cost in Washington?

Average Costs by Home Size

Small remodels (under 1,000 sq ft): $30,000 to $60,000
Mid-size (1,500–2,000 sq ft): $75,000 to $150,000
Large/full renovations: $200,000+

Price Differences by Region

Labor and material costs vary. For example:

Seattle & Bellevue: Higher-end pricing due to demand and zoning
Tacoma & Spokane: Slightly more budget-friendly

High vs. Mid-Range Remodels

Choose between:

Mid-range: Durable finishes, standard appliances, moderate updates
High-end: Custom cabinetry, smart home tech, luxury finishes

Cost-Saving Tips Without Cutting Corners

Keep your layout mostly intact
Refinish instead of replacing when possible
Plan ahead to avoid rush fees or material shortages

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Remodeling Company in Washington

Risks of DIY Renovations

Unless you have experience, DIY remodels can lead to:

Code violations
Safety hazards
Time-consuming setbacks

Understanding when remodeling a house what comes first can also help you decide what tasks are better left to professionals.

Benefits of Hiring Licensed Contractors

Professionals ensure:

Proper permitting and inspections
Code-compliant workmanship
Accountability and insurance coverage

Time, Warranty, and Peace of Mind

At S&E Remodeling, we provide renovation timelines you can count on, warranties that protect your investment, and a team you can trust.

Why Choose S&E Remodeling for Your Washington Home Renovation?

Local Knowledge and Permit Expertise

We understand city-specific permit rules in Seattle, Spokane, Kent, and more. You won’t need to lift a finger for approvals.

Transparent Pricing and Timelines

No surprises. We offer detailed quotes and stick to clear timelines that keep your project on track.

Skilled Craftsmen and Certified Project Managers

Our team combines licensed professionals, vetted tradespeople, and experienced project leads to bring your renovation process to life.

Trusted Across Western and Central Washington

Homeowners from Everett to Olympia count on us for honest advice, clean workspaces, and beautiful results.

Serving Homeowners Throughout Washington

S&E Remodeling proudly serves homeowners in cities including Seattle, Tacoma, Bellevue, Renton, Everett, Olympia, Kent, Federal Way, Spokane, Redmond, and Kirkland. Whether you need a modern kitchen, a refreshed exterior, or a full-home transformation, we deliver craftsmanship and care at every step.

Final Thoughts: Set the Right Foundation for a Successful Remodel

A successful renovation starts with smart planning, not demolition. Focus first on your goals, inspections, and permits. Then follow the proper renovation order to stay on budget and on schedule.

S&E Remodeling is here to guide you through every step of your home remodeling journey. Let’s bring your vision to life with quality you can trust. If you’re asking when remodeling a house what comes first, our experts are ready to walk you through each phase with confidence.

Contact S&E Remodeling Today

If you’re wondering when remodeling a house what comes first, the answer is simple: a call to S&E Remodeling. We take the guesswork out of remodeling steps by managing everything from permits to finishing touches. Our company is licensed and certified by the Washington Department of Labor & Industries; our license number is SEREMRI822BE.

Why choose us:

Washington-based experts with a strong track record
Full-service renovation services, inside and out
Clear communication, reliable timelines, and no hidden fees

Schedule your free consultation today. Let’s build something great together with a clear remodel checklist.

Author

Yaniv Livnat

Yaniv Livnat is a certified and licensed general construction contractor in Washington state; he founded S&E Remodeling in 2018, and has completed hundreds of remodeling projects for homeowners in Pierce County. Outside of work, Yaniv is a proud father and family man.