A fresh coat of paint, updated appliances, and some new fabric on the table chairs can give your kitchen a completely new look. 

On HGTV, a kitchen goes from “Blah…” to “Wow!” in a matter of minutes, but if you’re considering a kitchen remodel, you’re probably wondering how long does a kitchen remodel take?

Keep reading for a realistic kitchen remodel timeline.

Replacement Kitchen

If you’re redoing your kitchen with a standard replacement style, the process will likely take between 6 and 8 weeks for an average American size kitchen. 

A replacement kitchen renovation means that you’re replacing appliances, cabinets, and countertops with new ones that are the same size and that require the same wiring. With this top of remodeling, there will be very limited, if any, construction so the process will be very smooth.

The downside with this type of renovation is that you aren’t able to move anything around or upgrade to a new size of the appliance. You’ll have limited options when it comes to purchasing a new appliance like a fridge or dishwasher because it needs to fit in the space that you already have. Additionally, you won’t be able to move your sink or oven to a different area because the wiring and plumbing will need to stay the same. 

However, redoing a kitchen replacement style means a faster and more affordable remodel!

How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take – Replacement Kitchen

The great thing about redoing your kitchen replacement style is that you can do it piece by piece and still have a usable kitchen.

Week 1

The first step is to sit down and plan. Great things come to those who plan and account for any hiccups! Since you won’t be doing any construction, you shouldn’t need to worry about permits, but be sure to check with your local regulations just in case. 

With a replacement kitchen, you’re mostly going to be doing cosmetic changes, so envisioning the new kitchen is very important. Consider what kind of appliances you want (that fit the spaces that you already have), what color/kind of countertops and backsplashes, and how you want to redo your cabinets. 

Be sure to take into account the following as well:

  • Lighting
  • Furniture
  • Wall color
  • Flooring

Week 2

Once you have your plan in place, the first thing to be done will probably be your floors. If you’re replacing the floors with new hardwood, expect this to take about a week. During this time, new cabinets may also be installed. 

Week 3

The next step is to get your countertops measured and created which will likely take about a week.

Week 4

During this week, you’re going to start seeing the kitchen come together! Appliances and countertops will be installed.

Weeks 5 and 6

The next two weeks will be occupied with painting and the finishing of hardwood floors.

Week 7

During the last week, you’ll probably want to have your kitchen professionally cleaned because the dust and construction materials will probably have taken over your kitchen.

This is the time to do a final walkthrough of the kitchen and check the fine details to make sure that everything is perfect. 

Custom Kitchen Renovation

For more traditional HGTV kitchen remodel, we get into custom kitchen renovations. Think Chip and Joanna coming in and completely knocking down the kitchen. Drywall flies and plaster fills the air. 

Doing a custom kitchen renovation means that you have virtually unlimited freedom with setup, appliances, and looks, as long as you can pay for it all. It’s reasonable to expect that a full kitchen renovation for an American size kitchen will take anywhere from 10 to 12 weeks, assuming your contractor doesn’t run into any issues.

How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take – Kitchen Renovation

A custom kitchen renovation is much more intensive and you won’t be able to use your kitchen for most of the process. That being said, you will be able to get the kitchen of your dreams with a complete remodel.

Preconstruction Phase

This phase takes as long as you make it. You should spend at least a few weeks considering what you want and planning the design. Because this is a full construction process that may involve plumbing and lighting, you will want to work with professional contractors who will take care of getting the appropriate contracts. 

During this phase you need to plan for:

  • Appliances
  • Flooring
  • Finishes
  • Furniture
  • Wiring
  • Plumbing
  • Backsplashes
  • Cabinets
  • Color Scheme
  • Painting

Construction Phase

During this phase, your kitchen will be virtually unusable. Expect there to be some hiccups, because it’s rare that a construction project goes completely to plan.

  • Week 1: During this week floor protection, demolition, and any necessary leveling will happen
  • Week 2: In week 2 the subcontractors will rough in any electrics, wiring, and ductwork
  • Week 3: This week involves the installation of insulation and drywall
  • Week 4: During this week the drywall is being finished and drying completely
  • Week 5: Involves the installation of new flooring and cabinets
  • Week 6: During this week, measurements for countertops will be taken and the countertops will be made, likely off-site
  • Week 7: At this time appliances and the countertop will be installed and the electrics and plumbing will be close to finished
  • Weeks 8 and 9: In week 8 the floors are being finished and the walls are being painted
  • Week 10: During this last week, final walkthroughs will be happening and professional cleaning will take place

It’s important to keep in mind that the process may be longer or shorter! It completely depends on your unique kitchen and remodels desires. Your contractor will be able to give you a more precise timeline. 

Start Planning Your Kitchen Remodel Today

Now that you know the answer to the question, “how long does a kitchen remodel take”, it’s time to start planning your own!

Do you want to do a replacement style remodel or a complete renovation?

Whichever suits your desires and your budget, we’re here to help. Contact us today to get a free estimate on your dream kitchen remodel!