Kitchen Remodel Timeline: An Explanation of How Long Each Step Should Take

Before Starting Your Kitchen Remodel

Dream Big, but Keep It Real

Before swinging a sledgehammer or picking out paint colors, take a step back. What’s your dream kitchen? Maybe it’s a cozy nook for Sunday breakfasts or a sleek, open space for entertaining. Whatever it is, balance those ambitions with a dose of reality. Does your layout work with the footprint of your home? Will that trendy island leave you with enough room to navigate around your fridge?

Think of this phase as sketching the blueprint of your vision. Spend a few evenings flipping through magazines, building Pinterest boards, or even wandering your local home improvement store for inspiration. The clearer your vision, the smoother the rest of the process will go.

Budgeting Without the Guesswork

Let’s talk numbers because dreams don’t come cheap. A typical kitchen remodel can range from $20,000 to $50,000, depending on the scale of work and materials you choose. Make sure you build in a cushion of 10–15% for surprises. Believe me, they’ll come.

For example, during my own remodel, an unexpected wiring issue ate through $3,000 of my budget faster than a hungry teenager with leftovers. Having that contingency fund saved the day.

Hire the Right Contractor (Think Matchmaker, Not Gambler)

Finding a contractor isn’t just about who can do the job the fastest or the cheapest. You’re essentially hiring a partner for a major project, so take the time to find someone you trust. Ask for recommendations, read reviews, and interview a few candidates before committing.

Questions like “What challenges have you encountered on similar projects?” or “How do you handle unexpected delays?” can give you a feel for their experience. Don’t be shy about asking to see their portfolio, either.

Permits: Not Fun, but Necessary

Nobody dreams about paperwork, but skipping permits can come back to haunt you. Depending on where you live, this step might take a couple of weeks or even longer. Stay proactive, so your project isn’t stalled before it even begins.

Setting Up Your Temporary Kitchen

Here’s where the “fun” begins. While your dream kitchen is under construction, you’ll need a makeshift setup. Think college dorm vibes—hot plates, toaster ovens, and a tiny fridge. It’s not glamorous, but with a little creativity, it’s manageable.

When my kitchen was out of commission, we turned our garage into a makeshift food station. Sure, microwaved pasta isn’t ideal, but it beats takeout every night.

Planning and Design Stage (2–3 months)

Measurements Matter

Precision is everything in this phase. A miscalculation here could spell disaster down the road. Double-check, triple-check, and when in doubt, measure again. It’s worth the extra effort now to avoid costly fixes later.

Sample, Select, and Plan

Picking out materials like cabinets, countertops, and flooring is one of the more exciting parts of the process. Order samples early and test them under your kitchen’s lighting to make sure they look as good at home as they do in the catalog.

Demolition and Preparation (1–2 Weeks)

Packing Up the Heart of Your Home

Before the demolition crew arrives, it’s time to pack up your kitchen. Box up your pots, pans, and utensils like you’re moving out temporarily—because, in a sense, you are. Label boxes clearly, especially for items you’ll need access to, like your favorite coffee mug or the cutting board that seems to do everything.

Think of this as a chance to declutter. Haven’t used that avocado slicer in three years? Maybe it’s time to let it go.

Out with the Old: Demolition Day

Demolition might sound dramatic, but it’s mostly about removing the old to make way for the new. Over the course of a week (or two, if surprises arise), contractors will tear out cabinets, appliances, flooring, and possibly walls, depending on your plans.

Pro tip: Dust gets everywhere. Seal off adjoining rooms with plastic sheeting and tape, and invest in a high-quality air purifier. Your sinuses will thank you.

Disposal: Where Does It All Go?

Once everything is torn out, the old materials need to be hauled away. Most contractors will handle this for you, but double-check it’s part of your agreement. If you’re going the DIY route, renting a dumpster is usually your best bet.

Rough Construction (1–4 Weeks)

Structural Changes: Setting the Stage

This is where the heavy lifting happens. If your remodel involves moving walls, rerouting plumbing, or upgrading electrical systems, it’ll happen during this phase. Don’t be surprised if your kitchen starts to look more like a construction zone than a living space.

Inspections are key here. Local building codes will require everything to be up to standard before moving forward, so don’t skip this step—even if it feels like a delay.

The Invisible Heroes: Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC

During rough construction, contractors will install or adjust the “bones” of your kitchen—things like plumbing lines, wiring, and ventilation. It’s not glamorous, but this step is critical for a functional and safe kitchen.

Here’s an analogy: Think of this phase as laying the groundwork for a stage production. The audience (you) won’t see the cables and rigging behind the curtain, but without them, the show couldn’t go on.

Installation Stage (1–2 Months)

Cabinets: The Backbone of Your Kitchen

Cabinet installation is one of the most satisfying milestones in a remodel. Over just 3–5 days, your kitchen begins to take shape. Cabinets provide structure and set the tone for the room’s style.

For example, sleek modern cabinets in white or gray create a minimalist vibe, while natural wood finishes add warmth and character.

Countertops: Measure Twice, Install Once

Once the cabinets are in place, countertops can be measured, fabricated, and installed—a process that takes about two weeks or more. Granite, quartz, and marble are popular choices, but don’t overlook newer materials like Dekton, which offer durability and style.

Fun fact: Quartz countertops have surged in popularity because they’re non-porous and virtually maintenance-free.

Flooring: The Foundation Beneath Your Feet

Flooring typically goes in after cabinets to avoid damage during the earlier phases of construction. Depending on the material—tile, hardwood, or luxury vinyl—installation can take 2–3 days.

Appliances, Lighting, and Fixtures

Here’s where things get exciting. With appliances and lighting in place, your kitchen starts looking functional again. Think of this phase as putting the cherry on top of a sundae—small details that bring everything together.

Final Touches and Clean-Up (1–2 Weeks)

Finishing Touches: Hardware and Trim

Handles, knobs, and trim might seem like minor details, but they have a big impact on the overall aesthetic. This step is also a chance to address the punch list—small fixes or adjustments needed to perfect the space.

Cleaning Up the Zone

No one wants to celebrate their new kitchen in a construction mess. A thorough clean-up is essential, and many contractors include this in their services. If not, consider hiring professional cleaners to tackle the dust and debris.

Unpacking and Enjoying Your New Kitchen

Moving Back In

After weeks (or months) of upheaval, it’s time to unpack and organize your kitchen. Take your time with this step—it’s a chance to thoughtfully arrange your space for maximum efficiency.

For example, keep everyday items like plates and utensils within easy reach, while storing less-used gadgets up high or in the back of drawers.

Final Inspections and Adjustments

Before you pop the champagne, schedule a final walk-through with your contractor to ensure everything meets your expectations. Address any lingering issues now while the crew is still on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a kitchen remodel take?
A full kitchen remodel typically takes anywhere from 3 to 6 months, depending on the scope of work. Simpler updates, like cabinet refacing or countertop replacement, can be completed in just a few weeks. However, larger projects involving structural changes, custom cabinetry, or extensive electrical and plumbing work will naturally require more time. Always account for potential delays due to supply chain issues or inspections.

How can I save money or remodel on a budget?
There are plenty of ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality. Consider these strategies:

• Refinish or reface cabinets instead of replacing them.
• Opt for ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinetry rather than custom-built options.
• Shop for appliances and fixtures during sales or at outlet stores.
• Use budget-friendly materials, like laminate countertops, or mix high-end and affordable elements for a balanced look.
• Do some of the work yourself, such as demolition or painting (if you’re confident in your skills).
  Remember to prioritize—splurge on items that make the biggest impact and scale back on those less noticeable.

What is included in a kitchen remodel?
A kitchen remodel typically involves the following:

• Demolition: Removing old cabinets, appliances, and finishes.
• Structural adjustments: Moving walls, doors, or windows (optional).
• Plumbing and electrical updates: Installing new pipes, outlets, or lighting.
• Installation: Cabinets, countertops, flooring, and backsplash.
• Appliances and fixtures: New refrigerators, ovens, sinks, and faucets.
• Finishing touches: Paint, trim, hardware, and final clean-up.
  Each remodel is unique, so the specific scope of work will depend on your goals, budget, and home’s existing structure.

How much does a kitchen remodel cost?
On average, homeowners spend $20,000 to $50,000 on a kitchen remodel. Smaller upgrades, like replacing countertops or updating appliances, might cost $10,000 or less, while high-end renovations with custom materials and luxury finishes can exceed $100,000. Factors like location, material choices, and labor rates heavily influence costs.

Do I need permits for a kitchen remodel?
Yes, in most cases, permits are required for work involving plumbing, electrical, structural changes, or moving walls. Permit costs vary by location but can range from $200 to $2,000. Your contractor should handle the permitting process, but it’s essential to verify that permits are secured before work begins to avoid fines or future complications.

Can I remodel just the cabinets or countertops?
Absolutely! If your kitchen layout is functional and your budget is limited, focusing on specific updates like cabinets or countertops can make a big difference. Cabinet refacing or painting can refresh the look without the expense of full replacement, while new countertops can elevate the entire space. These smaller projects typically take less time and cost significantly less than a full remodel.