How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take? Here’s a Typical Kitchen Remodel Timeline

If you’re considering a kitchen remodel, you’re in good company. Whether it’s a complete remodel or a light renovation, kitchen improvements continue topping the list of the most popular home projects among U.S. households. A kitchen remodel brings a high level of satisfaction — of those households who recently completed a kitchen remodel, 78% reported more enjoyment living in their homes as a result. 

But investing the time for a kitchen remodel can feel like a daunting task, especially considering the upheaval it can cause for everyone involved. It’s important to understand some of the driving factors that contribute to the project timeline to avoid unpleasant surprises. So, how long does a kitchen remodel take? 

The short answer is, it depends. Three primary factors that influence your completion date are your budget, the project’s scale (full demolition and rebuild vs. minor renovations), and the kitchen’s size. While the timeline can vary, HGTV predicts an average of three to five months to complete a full remodel. 

The good news is there are a few things you can do to speed things up. Doing some homework ahead of time, like knowing your style and what you like and don’t like about your kitchen can make the process go much more smoothly. Working with experienced and trustworthy contractors will also reduce the chance of mistakes and oversights that can delay your remodeling.

For your reference and planning, here's an example of a typical kitchen remodel timeline.

1. Research and Planning

Estimated Time Needed: 1-2 Weeks

One of the most fun parts of a kitchen remodel is the dreaming and scheming phase. Take the time to envision how you’d like your new kitchen to look and feel. Browse Pinterest boards, magazines, visit showrooms to explore layouts and products. You can also use online kitchen design tools that provide a 3D visual of your completed kitchen. Decide on your splurge-worthy features, paying careful attention to how everything could align with your budget. 

2. Demolition

Estimated Time Needed: 1-2 Days

In this phase, contractors will tear down the old floors, cabinets, walls, and appliances. They will also be on the lookout for any issues that had been hidden behind the walls and floor (electrical, plumbing, and mold, for example) whose repairs could extend both budget and timeline. 

3. Initial Construction

Estimated Time Needed: 2-5 Weeks

This is when all the behind-the-scenes work takes place. Structural work includes wiring, placing outlets and switches, and installing new windows or doorways. Plumbing work also happens during this time, and the addition of or movement of fixtures could require more time. 

4. Walls, Paint, and Flooring

Estimated Time Needed: 1-2 Weeks

Next up are the walls, flooring, and painting. Drywall and paint typically come first, followed by flooring installation. The type of flooring you've selected may extend the time of your remodel. For example, durable flooring may be installed before your new cabinetry, but laminate flooring should go in after the cabinets are in place to avoid damage. A professional remodeler will take your flooring selection into account when drafting your kitchen project’s timeline. 

5. Cabinets and Countertops

Estimated Time Needed: 1-2 Weeks

Home stretch now! Here is where you’ll see your kitchen begin coming together. Cabinet installation comes first and takes two or three days. Countertops come next. Careful and precise measurements are required so material is cut to fit the specific cabinet dimensions. How much counter space you have and counter material will influence how much time is needed here for completion, with one to two weeks common.

6. Appliance Installation

Estimated Time Needed: 2-3 Days

All that’s left is appliance, lighting, and other fixtures installation. The full kitchen renovation process wraps up here. If you're using existing appliances, this step will go more quickly, but even with new models, it should take two or three days upon delivery. 

7. Finishing Touches and Cleanup

Estimated Time Needed: 1 Week

The end is near — all that's left are finishing touches and site clean-up. The construction team will do final paint touch-ups and polishes, take care of crown molding, and install backsplashes. After that, the construction site will be cleaned of debris and dust. All unnecessary materials and supplies will be hauled off. Finally, the team will do a final walk-through with you to make sure everything is just as you want it before you break out the bubbly to celebrate.

The Remodeling Timeline Takeaway

While this kitchen remodeling timeline can be a helpful guide during your planning, how long a project will take depends on your needs, design plan, budget, and whether you plan to do it yourself or call in the pros. Renno takes the guesswork out of kitchen remodeling with our 3D design tool to visualize your project, material ordering, and access to a list of licensed contractors in your area. Start building your dream kitchen with us today.