
Undertaking a thorough home renovation is a journey that every project shares. Just like the “Six Degrees of Separation” theory, there are exactly 6 Phases that separate you from your dream home.
Any project goes through a “Lifecycle.” Some phases are messy, some are frustrating, but the final ones are full of joy. Among these, the most critical question homeowners ask is: “When should I buy the finishing materials?”
To answer this, you need to understand the flow of the renovation. Here is the roadmap to help you plan your purchases at Merlons.
Phase 1: Design & Planning
This is where it all begins. You look at your space through a prism of endless possibilities.
** The Goal:** To define the “Character” of your home.
Action: Collaborating with a designer or architect is the best way to avoid costly mistakes later. By the end of this phase, you should have a clear budget.
Material Strategy: You don’t buy yet, but you must choose. Visit showrooms now to understand lead times.
Phase 2: Demolition or Construction
For old apartments, this is demolition. For new frames, this is building walls.
The Reality: Demolition can be therapeutic, but as walls come down, you realize the scale of work ahead. This phase tests your commitment.
Key Task: Waste disposal and clearing the space for the new structure.
Phase 3: Giving Shape (Framing)
The “Skeleton” of the house is formed. Walls go up, and partitions are set.
The Feeling: This is a hopeful stage. After the destruction of Phase 2, seeing rooms take shape feels like progress at the speed of light.
Phase 4: MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing)
This is the longest and most technical phase. The “Mechanical Bones” (wires, pipes, ducts) are installed inside walls and floors.
Critical Decision: You must decide on socket locations (charging phones by the bed?) and lighting zones.
Material Alert: You need to have your Sanitary Systems (Built-in Cisterns, Shower Mixers) ready now. The internal parts must be installed before the walls are closed.
Phase 5: Plastering & Finishing Materials (The Crucial Moment)
Once the wires and pipes are done, walls are insulated and plastered. This is the moment of truth.
The Task: While the walls are drying, you must make the final purchase of finishing materials to ensure the work continues without a pause.
What to Buy: Now is the time to secure:
Porcelain Stoneware (Gres)
Ceramic Tiles
Mosaics
Large Format Slabs
Why Merlons? The variety of choices can be overwhelming. At Merlons, we simplify this process with a curated selection of premium finishing materials that are in stock or available for quick order.

Phase 6: The Final Touch
The materials you bought in Phase 5 are now being installed.
The Process: Tiling happens, cabinets are assembled, wallpapers are hung, and fixtures (faucets, sinks, toilets) are mounted.
The Result: The mess clears, and the house takes its final form. Seeing your vision come to life brings the only feeling that matters: “It was all worth it.”

Conclusion: Timing is everything. By understanding these 6 phases, you can ensure your materials arrive exactly when the workers need them. For all your finishing needs—from the first tile to the last soap dish—Merlons is your partner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I buy tiles in Phase 1? – You can, but you need storage space. It is better to reserve them in Phase 1 or 2 and have them delivered in Phase 5. This avoids the risk of tiles breaking while stored on a construction site.
How long does it take to order tiles? – If the tile is in stock at Merlons, it’s immediate. If it’s a special order from Italy or Spain, it can take 4-8 weeks. Always ask about “Lead Time” during Phase 1 to plan accordingly.
Do I install the toilet before or after tiling? – After. In Phase 4, you install the internal frame (cistern) inside the wall. Then you tile the wall in Phase 5. Finally, in Phase 6, you mount the visible toilet bowl onto the tiles.