How Long Does a Typical Kitchen Remodel Really Take?

Thinking about redoing your kitchen? One of the biggest questions most homeowners have is, “How long will it actually take?” Planning a kitchen remodel can feel exciting at first, but once things start moving, timing becomes everything. From the moment you start dreaming of new countertops and cabinets to the final clean-up, the timeline can vary. If you’ve ever searched for kitchen remodel near me, you’re probably looking for realistic expectations—so let’s talk timeframes in plain, honest terms.

Why Kitchen Remodels Take Time

Kitchen remodeling isn’t just about changing how the space looks—it’s about working with plumbing, electricity, permits, and a long list of moving parts. Unlike painting a room or swapping out a light fixture, remodeling a kitchen involves several trades, inspections, and delays that you might not expect.

The Planning Phase Comes First

Before any demolition begins, you’ll spend a few weeks planning. This includes meeting with contractors, deciding on layout, materials, appliances, and budgeting. Most people spend two to four weeks in this phase. While it may feel slow, skipping over this step can lead to bigger delays down the road.

Getting Permits and Approvals

Depending on where you live, you may need building permits, especially if your remodel involves plumbing or electrical changes. Waiting for approval from the city or county can add one to three weeks to your schedule. Some areas move faster than others, but this step can’t be rushed.

Demolition: Starting Fresh

Once the planning is done and permits are approved, it’s time to tear out the old kitchen. Demolition typically takes three to five days. Contractors will remove cabinets, flooring, appliances, and even walls if you’re opening up the space. Expect some dust and noise, and maybe a temporary kitchen setup in another room.

Structural and Utility Work

After demolition, you’ll often need electrical, plumbing, and HVAC updates. Running new wiring or relocating a sink can take one to two weeks depending on complexity. Each of these steps might need an inspection before moving forward, which can sometimes lead to brief pauses in the schedule.

Framing and Drywall

If your remodel includes moving walls or adding new ones, this is where framing comes in. Framing, followed by drywall installation and finishing, usually takes another one to two weeks. Drywall mud has to dry between coats, and sanding can be messy—but it’s all part of getting to that finished look.

Cabinets and Flooring Installation

Now it’s time to put your kitchen back together. Cabinets often take five to seven days to install. After that, flooring goes in, which might take two to four days depending on the material. Timing here also depends on whether flooring is installed before or after the cabinets, which varies by contractor.

Countertops Come Later

Surprisingly, countertops don’t usually get installed right after cabinets. First, a fabricator has to visit your home to take precise measurements. That can take another week, and then it may take up to two weeks to cut and install the counters. It’s a waiting game, but it’s important to get it right.

Appliances and Fixtures

Once the counters are in, you’re getting close. Appliances are delivered and hooked up, sinks and faucets are connected, and lighting is installed. This phase takes three to five days. At this point, your kitchen starts looking functional again.

Final Touches and Clean-Up

The final week includes details like trim, backsplash tile, paint touch-ups, and final inspections. It’s the home stretch, but don’t be surprised if it takes up to five more days. Contractors need to walk through the space, make sure everything works, and leave the kitchen ready to use.

So, How Long Does It Really Take?

On average, a full kitchen remodel takes six to twelve weeks from the first day of demolition to the final day of clean-up. Smaller remodels—where the layout stays the same and you’re just changing finishes—might wrap up in four to six weeks. Larger remodels, especially ones that move plumbing or require city inspections, can take three months or longer.

Factors That Affect the Timeline

Several things can stretch out a remodel. Custom cabinets and backordered materials are common delays. Weather might play a role, especially if construction involves exterior changes. Contractor availability and even homeowner decisions can also add time. The more you change mid-project, the longer it takes.

Final Thought:

A kitchen remodel isn’t just a weekend job—it’s a big project that needs time and patience. The timeline might feel long, but rushing can lead to costly mistakes. Taking it one step at a time, sticking to your plan, and working with the right team will help you get the kitchen you really want. By setting realistic expectations and staying flexible, you’ll end up with a space that’s both beautiful and functional—and worth the wait.