Kitchen Renovation Timeline

What Do I Need to Know Before Starting?

If this is your first kitchen renovation project, developing a plan may seem a bit daunting. But according to Spoelker, investing time upfront to plan can actually help you save money and time on your kitchen renovation project down the line. “I always tell homeowners to take their time, do their homework, ask questions, create pinboards, start an idea file -- anything you can do to create a strong foundation for your kitchen renovation will help streamline everything that follows,” says Spoelker.

Here are some other key planning steps Spoelker recommends hammering out, figuratively, before any of the actual renovation work begins:

What is a Realistic Kitchen Renovation Timeline?

According to a 2020 U.S. Houzz & Home study exploring remodelling trends in 2019 and 2020, kitchen renovation projects took, on average, 8.3 months of planning time and 4.5 months of actual construction time. Figuring out where your own project falls on that timeline depends largely on two things: the intended scope of your renovation (which, for the most part, is within your control) and the unexpected (which, for the most part, is not).

• Scope - If your changes are primarily cosmetic (repainting cabinets instead of replacing them), or you’re upgrading a lot, but retaining the original layout, your kitchen renovation could take less time than the average. Any large structural changes, however, are likely to require a longer timeline. “It’s easy to get caught up in how things will look in your new kitchen,” says Spoelker. “But it’s important to keep in mind what that will mean logistically, too. Moving gas lines, walls, rewiring and relighting all adds to your timeline.”
• Surprises - While there’s no way of knowing what surprises your kitchen renovation could reveal, that doesn’t mean you can’t plan for them. “Always add a little extra time and money to your reno plan,” advises Spoelker. “Whether you’re dealing with black mold or backlogged supplies, at least you’ll be prepared.”

Step-by-Step Guide To Kitchen Renovation

Once the groundwork is laid for your kitchen renovation, it’s time for the transformation to begin! Here’s a rundown of how to prepare for your kitchen renovation, the key steps, what they entail, the order in which they should happen, and a general estimate of how long they may take. Check out our article, “How to renovate a kitchen” for additional information on renovating your kitchen.

Set Up a Temporary Kitchen

Time: 1-2 days
You’ll likely be “roughing it” for weeks, so think carefully about how to create a temporary kitchen away from the construction site to sustain your basic needs. Be sure to include: a microwave or hot plate, mini-fridge (or better yet, your old refrigerator, if you plan to replace it), access to a sink or cleanup area, everyday pantry essentials and somewhere to sit and eat.

Demolition & Clean Out

Time: 1-2 weeks for smaller projects, up to 6 weeks for larger projects
Before demolition can begin, you’ll need to clear out your kitchen, which is a great opportunity to rid yourself of anything expired, outdated or broken in your kitchen. Be sure it clearly states in your contract who is doing the demolition, when they are starting and who’s responsible for carting away the remnants of your old kitchen. Spoelker also advises against starting any demolition work before all your supplies and materials are on-site. “The last thing you want is for your renovation to stall because you’re waiting on a key delivery.”

Contractor Work Begins

Time: 1-3 weeks
This kitchen renovation stage may feel the most chaotic, but it’s actually a well-orchestrated dance of plumbing, mechanical, electrical, duct, wiring, insulation and drywall work. In some cases, the work is linear -- e.g., you can’t install drywall before the wiring work is complete. However, Spoelker points out that some things can also happen simultaneously, like plumbing inspection and tilework. Scheduling during this stage is especially crucial. Learn about the pros and cons of hiring a general contractor.

Installing Floors and Cabinets

Time: 2-3 days for flooring, 3-5 days for cabinets
Again, order plays an important role here. If you’re installing a hardwood floor, it needs to go in before the cabinets are installed. However, vinyl floors can be installed after cabinets. And even once the cabinets are in, it’s crucial to ensure they are properly leveled and installed. Otherwise, that could throw off the fit of countertops, appliances and more.

Installing Countertops and Appliances

Time: 3-5 weeks
Fabricating countertops is a lengthy process that can’t begin until the cabinets are complete, so this stage often represents the bulk of a kitchen renovation timeline. Plus, installation of new appliances and lighting may require testing, troubleshooting and fine-tuning of electrical or plumbing work. But it pays to take it slow. The last thing you’d want is to damage your new flooring, drywall or cabinets by rushing this stage.

Painting and Cleaning

Time: 2-4 weeks
You’re approaching the finish line! Now it’s time for the final touches: sealing, caulking, priming, painting and trim work. Check that any contractors or subcontractors are leaving your space clean and in better condition than when they found it. Do a final inspection, and once you’re satisfied, it’s time to move into your dream kitchen and celebrate the fruits of all your research, planning and vision!