Winston-Salem – October 20, 2026 -- A new HelloNation article walks homeowners through every stage of a whole-house remodel, from budgeting and permits to cabinets and paint, with input from Brian Ward of Ward Construction & Remodeling.
Planning and permits come before any demolition
The process starts with design and planning. Homeowners and contractors review project goals, evaluate existing conditions, and set budgets. In older Winston-Salem homes, assessing plumbing, electrical, and structural systems may take extra time.
Structural changes and certain plumbing or electrical upgrades generally require building permits and approvals. Processing times vary, so the article advises building possible delays into the remodeling timeline.
Demolition and rough-in work disrupt daily routines
Once permits are secured, crews remove walls, flooring, cabinets, and outdated materials. Dust, noise, and limited access to some rooms are common. Contractors then handle framing adjustments, plumbing upgrades, electrical wiring, and HVAC improvements. Required inspections must be completed before finished walls cover certain systems.
Older homes can hide problems that only become visible after demolition. Damaged materials or outdated systems may require changes to both schedule and budget.
Finishing steps can still shift the completion date
Insulation and drywall come next, and rooms begin to take shape. Drying times and finishing requirements can make progress look slower than homeowners expect.
The final phase covers cabinet installation, painting, flooring, lighting, plumbing fixtures, and appliances. Material availability and installation schedules can still affect when the project wraps up.
Families may need a temporary kitchen and other workarounds
The article recommends regular updates between homeowners and contractors so families understand schedule changes, upcoming decisions, and potential disruptions. It also advises planning living arrangements, such as a temporary kitchen or alternate sleeping spaces, for periods when essential rooms are unavailable.
Ward's contribution stresses that each construction phase depends on the work completed before it: planning, permits, demolition, inspections, and finishing all feed into the overall timeline.