When Should I Pick Out My Finishes for a New Home or Renovation? Short Answer? ASAP.
If you’re building a new home or diving into a major renovation, one of the biggest questions that comes up early — and often — is:
“When should I start picking out my finishes?”
And here’s our honest answer: as soon as possible.
The moment demo starts (or even before), the clock is ticking. That means it’s time to start locking in decisions — because finishes don’t magically appear when it’s time to install them. They need to be selected, sourced, ordered, shipped, delivered — and sometimes even backordered or custom-made.
Delays in decision-making often lead to delays in construction. It’s one of the most common (and easily avoidable) reasons timelines get thrown off. Let’s walk through what finishes actually are, why timing matters, and which items need to be on your radar early.
What Are “Finishes,” Anyway?
In the construction world, “finishes” refer to the final materials and products that complete the look and feel of your home — the elements that bring your space to life. They’re both aesthetic and functional, and typically include:
Tile (floor tile, wall tile, backsplash)
Plumbing fixtures (sinks, faucets, shower systems, tubs)
Lighting (overhead fixtures, sconces, pendants, chandeliers)
Cabinets (kitchen, bathrooms, laundry, built-ins)
Flooring (wood, tile, carpet, luxury vinyl, etc.)
Appliances (refrigerator, range, dishwasher, washer/dryer)
Windows and doors (interior and exterior)
Paint colors (interior walls, trims, cabinets)
Hardware (cabinet pulls, door handles, towel bars)
Custom or specialty items (built-ins, mirrors, vanities, shelving)
These may seem like things you can decide “later,” once the house is framed and the big stuff is done — but in reality, many of these selections have lead times that impact when the next phase of your build can even begin.
Why You Need to Choose Early
Let’s say your cabinetry is delayed by three weeks. That delay doesn’t just affect the kitchen — it pushes out your countertop install, which then pushes out plumbing hook-ups, backsplash tile, final paint, and ultimately, your move-in date.
Here’s the bottom line: The earlier you make your selections, the more control you have over your timeline.
Other reasons early decisions matter:
Supply chain issues are still real — many specialty items are not stocked locally.
Custom orders take longer to fabricate and deliver.
Installers and subcontractors need product specs in advance to do layout prep (plumbing, electrical, tile, etc.).
Budget clarity improves when selections are made early — you avoid the “I didn’t know that would cost extra” surprises.
Design cohesion is easier when you have a full vision rather than making one-off decisions room by room.
What Should Be Ordered First?
Here’s a list of finishes we always recommend locking in early — ideally before or right at the start of demo or construction:
– Tile
Tile often has long lead times, especially if it’s handmade, imported, or part of a designer collection. It’s also one of the first things needed for bathrooms, showers, and kitchen spaces.
– Plumbing Fixtures
Faucets, tubs, and shower systems are tied directly to rough plumbing — which happens early. Your plumber needs exact specifications to ensure everything is installed correctly behind the walls.
– Lighting
Lighting layout and fixture types affect electrical rough-ins. That dreamy oversized chandelier or sconces in your powder bath? You’ll need to have them picked out and ordered well in advance.
– Cabinetry
Custom cabinets often take 8–12 weeks to produce. And your countertop, tile, and appliances all rely on the cabinet layout, making this one of the most important early decisions.
– Flooring
Some flooring types (especially hardwood) need acclimation time before install. Others may be discontinued or delayed. Make selections early so install can happen as soon as the home is ready.
– Appliances
Appliances are still experiencing longer-than-usual wait times. If your fridge or range has custom paneling, your cabinet design will also depend on these specs.
– Windows and Doors
Custom windows and unique door styles may take weeks to fabricate. Delays here can literally hold up the framing and sealing of the home — not to mention inspections and energy code compliance.
– Paint Colors
While paint is more flexible, knowing your palette helps guide other decisions and keeps you from having to repaint later if things don’t match.
– Hardware
It may seem like a small detail, but cabinet hardware can delay final installs and even hold up inspections. Some hardware comes from boutique or overseas makers — order early.
– Custom & Specialty Items
Anything made-to-order — from floating vanities to bespoke lighting or built-ins — should be prioritized. These pieces are often focal points in a home and worth waiting for, but only if they’re ordered on time.
How We Help Our Clients Stay Ahead
At our company, we don’t wait until the house is framed to start talking finishes. We guide our clients through these selections from the very beginning. Our build process is centered around planning ahead — so you can enjoy the process, not stress about it, we work with some of the best designers and can connect you with the ones that best meet your needs.
We’ve seen firsthand how much smoother — and more enjoyable — the build becomes when these decisions are made early and intentionally.
It’s Not About Rushing — It’s About Readiness
This isn’t about pressure or panic — it’s about preparation. The goal is not to rush you through your choices, but to help you make them with confidence, clarity, and enough time for everything to arrive when it’s needed.
So if you're just getting started with your custom home or renovation, remember this:
“When should I pick out my finishes?”
Right now.
Get inspired, get informed, and get your orders in — because a smooth build starts long before the finishes go in.
Ready to Start Building?
Whether you're already deep into your project or just dreaming up your perfect home, we’re here to help you build smart — from day one.
Let’s bring your vision to life without the unnecessary delays.
Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation or walkthrough.
🛠️✨ Your dream home deserves a drama-free timeline.