What this planning model assumes
A useful renovation schedule separates active labor from waiting time. This calculator estimates a simple sequence of preparation, installation, curing or drying, and finishing. Installation time depends on the quantity of work, production per worker-day, and crew size, while a separate buffer applies to the active work stages. The estimate assumes all stages happen in sequence and reports elapsed calendar days only when the entered workdays are treated as consecutive days. It does not model weekends, holidays, trade dependencies, permits, lead times, or critical paths. Use actual product wait times and realistic crew productivity rather than assuming every added worker doubles output.
Capacity and sequencing constraints
- Crew productivity rarely scales perfectly with headcount. Set an effective crew input that reflects workspace and workflow limits.
- Mandatory cure or dry time must come from the product and site conditions; a schedule buffer cannot replace it.
- Overlapping stages or multiple trade dependencies require a more detailed schedule than this simple sequence.
Set the workload and available capacity
- Estimate each active stage separately from product waiting time.
- Use a realistic installation rate and effective crew size.
- Add a buffer and translate consecutive days into the actual work calendar.
Planning arithmetic and example
A worked example
600 units at 150 units per worker-day with two effective workers take two installation days. Two prep days and one finishing day make five active days; 20% adds one buffer day, plus two waiting days, for eight days.
Frequently asked questions
Does the timeline skip weekends?
No. It reports a consecutive-day sequence. Insert nonworking days when transferring it to a calendar.
Is drying time multiplied by the contingency?
No. The buffer applies to preparation, installation, and finishing; the entered required wait remains separate.
Can doubling the crew halve installation time?
Only if the entered effective productivity supports that assumption. Constrained space and trade coordination can limit the benefit.
Read the project guides
- Build a Renovation Budget That Includes Waste, Tax, Delivery and Contingency
Turn material quantities and contractor quotes into a transparent home project budget with pack rounding, tax treatment, delivery, disposal, and visible contingency.
Calculation method: JICWH methodology. Examples are planning assumptions, not product recommendations.