How to Confirm Your Project Timeline
A kitchen remodel typically takes 8-16 weeks, but every project is different. Understanding the realistic timeline helps you plan for living without a kitchen and sets proper expectations.
Quick Summary
Typical duration
8-16 weeks
Without kitchen
3-6 weeks (hardest)
Buffer to add
2-4 weeks
Typical 8-16 Week Timeline
Here's what happens during each phase of a mid-range kitchen remodel. Your timeline may vary based on scope and material lead times.
Weeks 1-2: Demolition
Most disruptive- •Remove existing cabinets, countertops, flooring
- •Disconnect plumbing and electrical
- •Haul away debris
- •Expose any hidden problems
Expect: Lots of dust, noise, and no functional kitchen. This is the hardest phase to live through.
Weeks 3-4: Rough-In Work
Behind walls- •New electrical wiring and outlets
- •Plumbing rough-in (if moving sink/dishwasher)
- •HVAC modifications if needed
- •Inspections for rough-in work
Critical: Inspections must pass before closing walls. Delays here impact everything downstream.
Weeks 5-6: Drywall and Prep
Closing up- •Close walls with drywall
- •Tape, mud, and sand drywall
- •Prime walls
- •Floor prep (subfloor leveling if needed)
Weeks 7-9: Cabinet Installation
Exciting progress- •Install upper cabinets
- •Install lower cabinets and island
- •Level and secure all cabinets
- •Install fillers and trim pieces
Milestone: The kitchen finally starts looking like a kitchen! This is encouraging after weeks of chaos.
Weeks 10-11: Countertops
Template to install- •Template countertops (exact measurements)
- •Fabrication (usually off-site, 1-2 weeks)
- •Countertop installation
- •Sink and faucet installation
Note: Counters can't be templated until cabinets are fully installed and level. This creates a 1-2 week gap.
Weeks 12-14: Finishing Work
Coming together- •Backsplash installation
- •Paint walls and ceiling
- •Install flooring
- •Install light fixtures and outlets
- •Connect appliances
Weeks 15-16: Punch List and Final
Almost done!- •Hardware installation (knobs, pulls)
- •Final electrical inspection
- •Touch-up paint and caulking
- •Walkthrough with contractor
- •Address punch list items
- •Final cleanup
Common Causes of Delays
Every remodel encounters delays. Understanding common causes helps you plan realistically and avoid frustration.
Material lead times
- •Custom cabinets: 6-12 weeks
- •Semi-custom: 4-8 weeks
- •Stock cabinets: 1-3 weeks
- •Countertops: 2-4 weeks after template
- •Appliances: Varies widely (order early!)
Unexpected discoveries
- •Water damage behind cabinets
- •Outdated electrical that needs replacement
- •Plumbing issues or galvanized pipes
- •Subfloor damage or rot
- •Structural issues requiring engineer
Permit and inspection delays
- •Permit approval (1-4 weeks in busy areas)
- •Inspector availability (scheduling delays)
- •Failed inspections requiring corrections
- •HOA approvals if required
Scheduling conflicts
- •Subcontractor availability
- •Countertop fabricator schedule
- •Appliance delivery coordination
- •Homeowner decision delays
Build in contingency: Whatever timeline your contractor gives you, add 2-4 weeks mentally. Telling family the kitchen will be done "by Thanksgiving" when the contractor says October 15th is a recipe for disappointment.
Planning to Live Without a Kitchen
For 3-6 weeks, you won't have a functional kitchen. Planning ahead makes this much more bearable.
Temporary Kitchen Setup
Essential items:
- • Microwave
- • Toaster oven
- • Electric kettle
- • Mini-fridge
- • Instant pot or hot plate
- • Coffee maker
Helpful additions:
- • Paper plates and plastic utensils
- • Folding table for prep
- • Dish bin for washing
- • Extension cords
- • Cooler for overflow storage
- • Outdoor grill (if available)
Meal planning tips
- •Stock up on freezer meals before demo starts
- •Plan simple one-pot meals
- •Budget extra for takeout and delivery
- •Use outdoor grill if weather permits
- •Accept dinner invitations graciously
Consider temporarily relocating during:
- •Demolition week (worst dust and noise)
- •If anyone has respiratory issues
- •If you have young children
- •Major holidays falling during construction
Setting Communication Expectations
Before work begins, establish how you'll stay informed about progress and issues.
Agree on:
- •Primary contact: Who do you call with questions?
- •Update frequency: Daily? Weekly? End of each phase?
- •Preferred method: Phone, text, email, or project app?
- •Decision timeline: How quickly must you respond to questions?
- •Photo documentation: Will they send progress photos?
- •Emergency protocol: What constitutes an emergency and who to call?
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
A typical kitchen remodel takes 8-16 weeks from demolition to completion. A minor remodel (cosmetic updates, no layout changes) may take 6-8 weeks. A mid-range remodel (new cabinets, counters, layout changes) takes 10-14 weeks. A major remodel (moving walls, plumbing, electrical) can take 14-20+ weeks.
What causes kitchen remodel delays?
Common delay causes include: cabinet lead times (often 4-12 weeks), countertop fabrication (2-4 weeks after template), permit approvals, inspection scheduling, hidden problems discovered during demo (rot, old wiring, plumbing issues), back-ordered appliances, and homeowner decision delays. Weather rarely affects interior kitchen work.
How do I live without a kitchen during remodel?
Set up a temporary kitchen in another room with: a microwave, toaster oven, electric kettle, mini-fridge, and instant pot or hot plate. Use paper plates to minimize dishes. Move the coffee maker. Plan simple meals or budget for more takeout. Some homeowners stay with family or rent an Airbnb for the demo phase when dust is worst.
Can I stay home during a kitchen remodel?
Yes, most homeowners stay in their homes during kitchen remodels. It's inconvenient but manageable. The worst period is the first 1-2 weeks during demolition when dust and noise are significant. Consider staying elsewhere during this phase if possible. After rough-in, it becomes more livable.
Ready for the Next Step?
With your timeline confirmed, it's time to determine what permits will be needed and ensure they're pulled before work begins.