The question hits the mind the moment you realize your old kitchen isn’t cutting it anymore: “How long does a kitchen remodel take?”
I’ve stood with families in cluttered kitchens that hadn’t seen a new cabinet or countertop in decades. I’ve watched homeowners light up at the smell of sawdust because it meant progress. And I’ve seen the frustration when timelines slip. So if you’re about to begin a kitchen renovation journey—or you’re in the middle of one and wondering why it’s taking so long—you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’re not just throwing numbers at you. You’ll get a complete kitchen remodel timeline based on real-world experience. From choosing a design to cooking your first meal in your dream kitchen, this article will walk you through each phase, the average time it takes, and what might delay the process.
Understanding the Timeline for a Kitchen Remodel
Let’s set the stage. A kitchen remodel doesn’t follow a cookie-cutter path. Some kitchens are done in 4 weeks. Others take 4 months. On average, a full-scale kitchen renovation in the U.S. typically takes 6 to 12 weeks after demolition starts—but the full process (including planning and design) can take 3 to 6 months.
Here’s why:
Each phase of your renovation project has its own moving parts—design, permitting, demolition, construction—and each one can be a speed bump or a green light depending on how it’s handled in your kitchen renovation.
Phase-by-Phase: Kitchen Remodel Timeline Breakdown
Let’s break it down like we would on a real project board.
Planning and Design Phase (2–6 weeks)
This is the quiet before the (organized) storm.
During this stage, you’ll:
- Define your scope of the project
- Decide on a kitchen design style
- Choose materials (cabinets, countertops, tiles, etc.)
- Work with a kitchen designer or contractor
- Finalize budget estimates
- Apply for permits if structural or plumbing changes are involved
Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate how long it takes to finalize cabinet styles, countertop materials, and appliance finishes. Decision fatigue is real!
Permits and Ordering Materials (2–4 weeks)
Once the design is approved, it’s time to get legal and logistical.
- Permits for electrical, plumbing, or structural work can take 1–3 weeks, depending on your local regulations.
- Ordering custom cabinetry or specialty items? Expect a wait of 4–10 weeks, though it can be done in parallel with permitting.
Table: Common Permit and Order Wait Times
| Item | Average Wait Time |
|---|---|
| Electrical/Plumbing Permit | 5–10 business days |
| Custom Cabinets | 6–8 weeks |
| Quartz Countertops | 2–3 weeks post-template |
| Lighting Fixtures | 1–3 weeks |
Demolition and Prep Work (3–7 days)
This is when your old kitchen officially says goodbye.
- Old cabinetry, appliances, countertops, and sometimes flooring are removed.
- Structural changes are framed.
- Your contractor might discover surprises behind the walls—outdated plumbing, faulty wiring, or mold—that can delay things.
Tip: Set up a temporary kitchen with essentials like a microwave, kettle, and toaster. It’s a game-changer.
Rough-in Work: Plumbing, Electrical & HVAC (1–2 weeks)
With a clean slate, it’s time to plumb, wire, and duct.
This part includes:
- Installing new electrical lines and outlets
- Running plumbing for sinks, dishwashers, and fridge lines
- Updating or moving HVAC ducts
You’ll need inspections after this stage. Your project can’t proceed until everything passes.
Wall Repair, Flooring, and Painting (1–2 weeks)
Once the mechanical work is inspected and cleared:
- Drywall is patched or replaced
- Walls are primed and painted
- Flooring (if not done earlier) is installed
Flooring types matter here. Tile may need more time due to drying and grouting.
Cabinet Installation (3–5 days)
Your kitchen starts to take shape now. New kitchen cabinets go in, transforming the space.
But here’s the catch—if your cabinet delivery is delayed or dimensions were off by even an inch, everything stalls.
Countertop Measurement & Installation (1–2 weeks)
Only after the cabinets are installed can a fabricator come in to template the countertops. Then:
- Materials are cut and polished
- Installed 7–10 days later
- Requires 1–2 days including sink cutouts and backsplash preparation
Appliance Installation, Backsplash, and Lighting (1–2 weeks)
Now it’s time for the final finishes:
- New appliances are hooked up
- Backsplash tiles are installed and grouted
- Lighting fixtures go up
- Plumbing and electrical are connected and tested
Table: Final Installation Checklist
| Task | Avg. Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Appliance Hookup | 1–2 days | Ensure gas/electric are ready |
| Backsplash Installation | 2–3 days | Includes drying time |
| Lighting & Fixtures | 1–2 days | Might need coordination with electrician |
Final Inspection and Clean-Up (2–4 days)
If your remodel required permits, your local inspector will now sign off on the final work. Once approved:
- Contractor does a walkthrough
- Punch list is created and completed (touch-ups, caulking, etc.)
- Deep cleaning before you move back in
Factors That Can Make a Kitchen Remodel Take Even Longer
Every home has its story—and its curveballs. Here are a few things that can delay your kitchen renovation:
- Permit delays or slow local agencies
- Backordered materials (especially cabinetry or appliances)
- Structural surprises during demolition
- Change orders (if you change your mind mid-project)
- Scheduling issues with contractors or tradespeople
- Complex designs that require more custom work
If you’re working on an apartment remodel, expect more rules, longer approvals, and limited contractor access. On the flip side, small kitchen remodels can wrap up quicker if everything is well-coordinated.
My Client’s 10-Week Remodel Journey
Let me share a real story.
Katie and her husband had an outdated 90s kitchen—honey oak cabinets, laminate countertops, the works. They wanted a modern farmhouse style with white shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, and matte black hardware.
Here’s how their timeline played out:
- Planning & Design: 4 weeks (they used Pinterest and a designer)
- Permit & Orders: 2 weeks (no structural changes)
- Demo to Completion: 10 weeks
- Cabinets were delayed by 5 days
- Countertops took 8 days post-template
- Lighting install was rescheduled once
Despite the hiccups, their total remodel took about 14 weeks from start to finish, including all design and ordering.
Their reaction when they cooked their first meal in the new kitchen? “It finally feels like home.”
Is There a Way to Speed Up the Kitchen Remodel Process?
Yes—and no.
You can’t fast-forward inspections or make quartz cure faster. But you can avoid costly delays with smart planning.
Here’s how:
- Choose readily available materials if you’re on a tight timeline
- Approve designs and make decisions quickly
- Hire a reliable general contractor with good reviews
- Avoid mid-project changes
- Ask for a clear schedule from your contractor
Conclusion: What You Really Need to Know
Kitchen remodels aren’t just about replacing stuff—they’re about reimagining how you live in one of the most-used spaces in your home. And while the process can take anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months, knowing the timeline helps you prepare mentally, logistically, and emotionally.
Summary of Key Takeaways:
- A full kitchen remodel usually takes 6 to 12 weeks after demo, with planning and design adding extra time.
- The scope of the project and whether you’re doing structural changes greatly impact the timeline.
- Delays often come from permits, material lead times, and contractor scheduling.
- Having a temporary kitchen and making early decisions help maintain momentum.
- Communication with your general contractor is key to avoiding surprises.
At the end of the day, remodeling your kitchen is like cooking a big family meal—it takes time, planning, and patience, but the result is worth every bit of effort. Check out our related guides, follow us on social, or subscribe to our newsletter.
FAQ’s
How can I make my kitchen usable during a renovation?
It’s smart to set up a temporary kitchen elsewhere in your home, especially if you’re demolishing the existing kitchen. A folding table with a microwave, coffee maker, and mini fridge can go a long way. This helps you maintain normalcy, particularly during a longer kitchen renovation timeline. Keeping essentials like snacks and utensils in bins makes life easier while the rest of your kitchen remodel project unfolds.
What’s the biggest mistake homeowners make in kitchen remodels?
One common mistake is underestimating the scope of your project. People often focus on design and finishes but overlook how long it’ll actually take to complete. Not accounting for permit delays or long lead times on appliances can stretch your overall timeline. Always build in a buffer and communicate regularly with your contractor to stay ahead of any surprises during the renovation process.
Can a bathroom renovation be done at the same time as a kitchen remodel?
Yes, but only if you’re prepared for a more intense experience. Doing both simultaneously can save on costs and labor, but it will definitely take longer overall and may affect how livable your home is during the home renovation. If you’re staying in the house during the work, coordinate closely with your team to stagger demolition and minimize disruptions.
Does the size of the kitchen affect how long it takes to remodel?
Absolutely. The size of the kitchen plays a huge role in your kitchen renovation timeline. A small galley kitchen might take around 4–6 weeks, while a custom kitchen with structural changes or high-end finishes can take to complete in 10–14 weeks or more. The larger the space and the more detailed the kitchen layout, the longer the project take will be.
What’s the average time for a typical kitchen renovation?
For an average kitchen renovation with standard upgrades, you’re usually looking at 6 to 8 weeks. That’s assuming you’re not making big structural changes or relocating plumbing. But depending on material availability, permits, and scope, it could take longer. The key is understanding the timeline and being realistic about how long it will take from demolition to final inspection.
How can I speed up my kitchen remodel without cutting corners?
Start with a well-defined plan and finalize all design choices early. This reduces delays and miscommunication later. Choosing in-stock cabinets and materials instead of custom orders can shave weeks off the timeline for a kitchen renovation. And if you’re doing a DIY home renovation, know your limits—sometimes hiring help speeds things up and avoids costly mistakes that can drag out the renovation timeline.
