Your Complete Guide to How Long a Kitchen Remodel Really Takes

Planning a kitchen remodel? One of the first questions you’ll likely have is, “How long will it take?” Knowing the timeline for your remodel is crucial for budgeting, coordinating with contractors, and managing expectations.

A kitchen remodel can be one of the most disruptive home projects, considering how central this space is to daily life. Understanding the process helps you plan accordingly, so you’re not left without access to your kitchen for an extended period. Let’s explore the average duration of a remodel and factors that may influence how long it will take.

Quick Takeaways

• A typical kitchen remodel takes 6 to 12 weeks, including updates like stock cabinets, countertops, flooring, appliances, and fixtures.
• Major renovations like removing load-bearing walls, moving water/drain lines, or ordering custom cabinetry can take anywhere from 3 to 8 months.
• Minor cosmetic upgrades, such as refacing cabinets and replacing fixtures, may only take 1-2 weeks.

How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take?

On average, a full remodel can take 6 to 12 weeks. However, this estimate only covers the actual renovation work, not the preliminary steps like planning and hiring contractors, which can take several weeks. The time spent on these steps can vary depending on the complexity of your design and the number of quotes you get from contractors.

Several factors will impact the total timeline for your remodel, including:

• Kitchen Size: Larger kitchens will generally take longer.
• Material Selection: Custom cabinetry or high-end appliances will extend timelines, sometimes by several months.
• Complexity: More extensive work, such as relocating appliances, changing the layout, or removing load-bearing walls, will increase the duration.
• Scope: The more elements you want to change, the longer the remodel will take. Small updates could be finished in just a few weeks, while a full renovation can stretch over months.

What to Expect During Each Phase of Your Kitchen Remodel

Planning and Design Phase

Courtesy of Fixr

The planning phase is essential to your kitchen remodel’s success. During this time, you’ll decide on the layout, style, materials, and the placement of key appliances like the stove, sink, and refrigerator. For some homeowners, working with a designer is a smart way to ensure the space functions optimally.

The planning phase can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of the project and whether you need to hire additional professionals. If your remodel involves custom cabinetry or structural changes, such as removing load-bearing walls, this phase may take longer as you coordinate with contractors and obtain permits.

Kitchen Demolition: 1 to 3 Weeks

The demolition process involves removing old materials and, sometimes, making structural changes, which may require permits. Demolition typically takes 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the size and scope of the project. If issues like mold, asbestos, or lead paint are discovered during demolition, it could delay the process by several days.

Construction: 4 to 6 Weeks (Up to 8 Months for Major Renovations)

The construction phase is where your kitchen comes to life. This involves installing key components, including electrical and plumbing systems, flooring, cabinets, countertops, and appliances. The length of this phase will vary depending on how much work is required.

• Electrical and Plumbing: This work typically takes between 1 and 4 days, depending on the complexity. It may involve upgrading circuits or rerouting plumbing.
• Flooring: Installing new flooring can take 1 to 3 days, depending on the material. Tile and hardwood floors typically take longer than luxury vinyl or laminate options.
• Cabinets and Countertops: Delivery times for stock cabinets can range from 1 to 2 weeks, while custom cabinetry can take 3 to 6 months. Once delivered, installation takes 2 to 3 days. Countertop installation usually adds another 2 to 7 days.
• Backsplash Installation: Typically a 1 to 3-day task, but more intricate designs can take longer.

Finishes: 1 to 3 Weeks

After all the major components are installed, the finishing touches will complete your remodel. This phase includes painting, fixture installation, appliance delivery, and cleanup.

• Painting: A professional painter typically takes 2 to 3 days, while a DIY job may take longer.
• Fixture and Hardware Installation: Installing lighting, faucets, and cabinet hardware typically takes a single day.
• Appliance Installation: Appliance installation can be done in a day, but delivery and hookup time may take a few weeks, especially if new utilities need to be added.
• Cleanup: The final step involves cleaning up construction debris, which usually takes a day or less.

By understanding the key stages of your kitchen remodel and knowing what to expect at each phase, you can plan your project with confidence and minimize disruption.