The Kitchen Remodel Timeline: What to Expect from Start to Finish

A kitchen remodel is one of the most exciting and rewarding home improvement projects, but knowing what to expect can make the process smoother. Whether you’re upgrading finishes, reconfiguring the layout, or doing a full gut renovation, here’s a breakdown of what a typical kitchen remodel timeline looks like.

Home Remodel With Addition By RGH Development. See full gallery Here.

Phase 1: Planning & Design (2-4 Weeks or More)

This stage is all about setting your vision, establishing a budget, and working with professionals to design your ideal space. Key steps include:

Hiring a contractor and, if needed, a designer or architect
Choosing materials, finishes, and appliances
Finalizing layout and cabinetry design
Obtaining permits (if necessary)

Pro Tip: If you’re working with custom cabinetry or specialty materials, lead times can be longer—factor this into your schedule.

Phase 2: Demolition (1-2 Weeks)

Once designs are finalized, it’s time to tear out the old kitchen. This step involves:

Removing existing cabinets, countertops, and appliances
Assessing electrical and plumbing conditions
Preparing the space for new installations

Pro Tip: If your home is older, you might uncover hidden issues like outdated wiring or water damage that need to be addressed before moving forward.

Phase 3: Rough Construction & Installations (3-5 Weeks)

This is when the foundation for your new kitchen takes shape. Work includes:

Framing (if walls are being moved or adjusted)
Electrical and plumbing rough-ins
Installing drywall and priming walls

Pro Tip: Make sure inspections are scheduled promptly to avoid delays in moving forward with the next phase.

Phase 4: Flooring, Cabinets, and Countertops (3-4 Weeks)

Now, the space starts to feel like a kitchen again! Work in this stage includes:

Installing flooring (hardwood, tile, or other chosen materials)
Mounting cabinets and hardware
Measuring and installing countertops (which typically have a wait time after templating)

Pro Tip: Countertops often take 1-2 weeks to be fabricated after measurements are taken, so plan accordingly.

Phase 5: Finishing Touches & Appliances (2-3 Weeks)

This final stage is all about bringing everything together. Tasks include:

Backsplash installation
Painting and final trim work
Installing lighting and plumbing fixtures
Delivering and setting up appliances

Pro Tip: A professional deep clean after construction can make a huge difference before you start using your new kitchen.

Final Walkthrough & Enjoying Your New Kitchen!

Before wrapping up, a final walkthrough with your contractor ensures all work meets your expectations. Any minor adjustments or touch-ups should be completed at this stage.

A kitchen remodel typically takes 8-12 weeks, depending on the project scope, material availability, and unexpected delays. Planning ahead and working with an experienced contractor can make all the difference in keeping things on track!