How long does a kitchen remodel take? This process can be different for each individual and space: it all depends on factors like budget, kitchen size, and the kind of features wanted. Before you begin a kitchen remodeling job, a clear timeline and schedule should be drafted out and agreed upon by you and your contractor (or your designer) to make sure everyone is on the same page.
Depending on a variety of factors, the average period it takes for a complete kitchen remodel is estimated between 6 to 12 weeks, according to Gilday Renovations.
Let’s look over our proposed timeline in more detail:
- Design and research
The first step is to look at all your needs, your options, and your finances, which can take as much or as little time as you’d like (that said, a detailed plan at the beginning will result in the best outcome). We divide them into these 3 factors:
- The budget
- The new features you want
- The features that will remain
- Demolition phase
Removing and tearing off any cabinets, flooring, or fixtures takes much less time than other elements on this timeline. If you have a team of professionals at your disposal, they can usually tackle most of the demolition work within a day or two. It will be the messiest part of the process, but it will certainly be worth it.
- Initial construction
In this phase, you will be tackling all the existing problems with regard to plumbing, electrical, and structural obstacles. If your house is older, there might be unknown problems lurking behind the walls. These should be tackled before moving onto the main cosmetic work.
Plumbing work can include the addition of sink and faucet features, dishwashers, and garbage disposals, or it might refer to taking care of older pipes that need to be replaced. This process takes around 3 to 5 days according to Cliq Studios.
- Rough fixings
After the initial construction, you will move onto the rough work that includes adding the flooring and paint. It also includes walls especially if you are changing your current kitchen layout. This can typically be done in less than two weeks.
- Cabinetry and countertops
The cabinets are easily added in 3 to 4 days however, it can take months to get them designed, cut, and measured (if you’re not buying a ready-made kitchen), so it’s best to start ordering early to avoid any delays. Countertops will also need to be measured out to the specific dimensions of your base cabinets (and account for any cutouts for appliances or fixtures). This process may take a few weeks.
- Appliances and electronics
If you are using existing appliances or if the ones you ordered are already on site, this process is one of the quickest. Fixtures, lighting, and electronics can usually be installed in five days at most (including the amount of time it takes to schedule the right professional). If you have your electrician or worker on site, it can be much faster.
- Finishing touches
By this time, the varnishes, polishes, and protective sprays have all dried. Once last-minute hardware and lighting is added, your kitchen is ready to use. Now, all that’s left to do is get rid of excess materials and clear the space for your first home-cooked meal.
