How Long Do Kitchen Remodels Take?

Factors Affecting Your Kitchen Remodeling Project Duration

The average kitchen renovation timeline is around 8-12 weeks. Even minor renovations can take a few weeks. That being said, the actual time frame will vary based on many factors.

Project Scope and Complexity

We all know that the average timeframe of a complete overhaul is going to be longer than replacing a few kitchen cabinets. But, beyond that, the complexity of the job includes the design process, which can be very time-consuming in some circumstances. Meeting with your design team in person can help expedite this step.

If you are planning structural changes, that will increase the project's timeline. Structural work is more difficult, while keeping the same layout can simplify things greatly.

Permit Acquisition and Approvals

This isn't something most homeowners have much control over. In fact, sometimes, it's even out of the contractor's hands. However, if the contractors have all their paperwork in order, hopefully, they are able to work quickly to get any new permits necessary for your specific job within a reasonable timeframe.

Availability of Materials and Appliances

Ordering materials is a process in and of itself. There are several factors, such as availability, shipping complications, how far it's being shipped from, and mode of transportation, that all vastly affect how quickly your materials will arrive.

Not all materials have to be ordered. If the plans for your new kitchen don't include any special materials or appliances, the construction schedule suddenly shrinks.

Contractor Scheduling and Workload

The busiest months for contractors are typically early spring, late summer (May to September). If you can save your home renovation projects for winter and fall, you will have better luck booking a contractor with an open schedule.

Typical Kitchen Remodel Stages and Timelines

‍

How long does a kitchen remodel take? Here is a detailed look at what goes into the overall timeline.

Design and Planning

This step is all pre-construction. For most kitchen remodels, the homeowner works with a designer consultant before handing the project off to a project manager.

Designing includes drawing up plans for your new kitchen, as well as figuring out how to work with the existing kitchen in terms of electrical wiring and more. This process takes anywhere between 2-4 weeks.

Demolition

Demolition may be messy, but it usually doesn't last long (anywhere from 3-4 days). This is when any major structural changes will begin. All the old cabinets, flooring, and countertops will come out, and any appliances will be set aside.

You can expect to have very limited access to your kitchen during this time.

Plumbing and Electrical Updates

Plumbing will take more than a day, usually two, and electrical work can vary quite a bit. If you're installing new electrical outlets or moving light fixtures around, the process will be less expedient. You can still assume 1-2 days for electrical.

Cabinetry and Countertop Installation

Depending on how complicated your home remodel is, this can take 1-2 weeks. A small kitchen will take less time just by nature of not having as much to install.

Flooring and Tiling

New flooring will take around 3-5 days. A new floor isn't a part of the kitchen project you want to rush, but thankfully it doesn't take very long.

Appliance Installation

Assuming all of your new appliances are in and all of the electrical and plumbing has been finished up, installing appliances shouldn't take more than two days. It's a relatively simple process that shouldn't take your contractor more than a few hours per appliance.

If you're having light fixtures installed, allow extra time because there are more appliances, and light fixtures can be a little more complicated.

Finishing Touches

"Finishing touches" is a broad category that has quite a bit of variation between companies. It could include crown molding, cabinet hardware, backsplash, paint touching up and making sure all appliances are level. If this is the case, you're still looking at 1-2 weeks' worth of work.

Other times, it simply means addressing any issues that the client may have with the renovation project, walking through the cabinet installation with the homeowner, and signing off. This typically doesn't take more than 1-2 days.

Tips for Speeding Up Your Kitchen Renovation Project

Set Realistic Expectations

One thing you should know about residential construction deadlines is that strict timeline expectations will add a lot of stress to your life. Make sure that every expectation you have is realistic, with a little cushion.

In the sales industry, they say, "Under sell, over-deliver." Do that with your expectations, and you will be a happier homeowner. The point is to keep your expectations reasonably comfortable so that there is room for problems, but if they don't happen, you're ahead of schedule.

Plan for Material and Appliance Delivery Delays

The shipping industry is reliably unreliable. With different materials coming in from multiple companies and then appliances potentially coming from several more, it's likely that at least one of them will have a hangup. Obviously, materials might be more of a hangup than your new oven, but both situations present irritating delays.

You will save time and frustration by expecting delays. Just accept that it will happen and schedule it in.

Stay Engaged and Communicate Regularly

Most issues with home remodeling programs happen when the homeowner disengages. There are so many things that can go wrong when the client isn't asking questions, keeping the contractors working their best, and having open lines of communication.

General FAQs Regarding Kitchen Renovation

What is the average duration of a kitchen remodeling project?

As long as your kitchen renovation project is somewhat standard, you can expect it to take anywhere from 6-12 weeks.

How can I estimate the timeline for my kitchen renovation?

You can do a lot of the estimation on your own by reading the list of expectations above, but there are some things you can't control, such as how far out the contractor is booked. Ask as many questions as you can before booking with any specific company.

How can I minimize downtime during my kitchen renovation?

Follow the above guidelines. It is better to over-prepare than be caught unawares. When it comes to timeline, most of your responsibility will be about staying in communication with everyone you need to and choosing the right contractor for the job.

Make sure you have documentation for the expected timeline, but remember to stay flexible.

How important is it to hire an experienced contractor for my kitchen remodel?

For any kitchen remodel, there is a lot that goes into the planning and the execution. It is advisable to hire someone with many years of experience behind them. Not only will it make you confident in the quality of work, but it will also put the responsibility of the job on the contractor and/or the company.

What should I do if my kitchen remodel is taking longer than expected?

If there are unforeseen complications, which there often are, make sure you and your contractor are both communicating well and that your contractor is staying on top of the issue. You can do this by asking questions regularly and being informed.

Can I continue using my kitchen during the remodeling process?

Day-to-day life is hard when your kitchen is turned upside down. You will likely be able to get things from the fridge, pantry, or water from the sink. Still, it might be tricky, and you probably won't be able to cook anything, depending on the severity of the kitchen renovation.

It is best to have a portable burner, paper dishes, and plastic silverware on hand, at the very least. If your remodel is going to last for a couple of months, you should consider constructing a temporary kitchen that includes a pantry and coffee station so you're not traipsing in and out.