Kitchen Renovation Checklist

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Plan & Design

Document existing kitchen

Take comprehensive photos and measurements of every wall, cabinet, and appliance.

Assess your needs

List functional problems, storage needs, and wish-list features for your new kitchen.

Hire designer or contractor

Interview at least 3 contractors. Check licenses, insurance, and references.

Finalize budget and financing

Budget $15,000-$50,000 for renovation. Add 15-20% contingency for unexpected issues.

Obtain necessary permits

Permits required for electrical, plumbing, and structural work. Contractor typically handles.

Create detailed timeline

Plan for 1-3 months total. Schedule deliveries and inspections in advance.

Demo & Prep

Set up protection zones

Seal kitchen from rest of home with plastic sheeting. Cover floors and vents.

Demo old cabinets

Remove upper cabinets first, then lowers. Save usable pieces for donation.

Remove countertops and backsplash

Granite/quartz requires careful removal. Tile backsplash creates significant dust.

Remove old flooring

Remove down to subfloor if installing new flooring. Check subfloor condition.

Structural assessment

Check for water damage, mold, or structural issues exposed during demo.

Rough Work

Update electrical rough-in

Add outlets, dedicated appliance circuits, under-cabinet lighting, and island power.

Update plumbing rough-in

Relocate sink, add gas line for range, install new water lines and drains.

HVAC adjustments

Relocate vents if changing layout. Add additional return if needed.

Rough inspection

Schedule inspection before closing walls. Address any issues immediately.

Drywall and mudding

Hang new drywall, tape seams, apply joint compound, sand smooth.

Cabinets

Order cabinets early

Custom cabinets take 6-12 weeks. Stock cabinets available in 1-2 weeks.

Inspect cabinet delivery

Check for damage immediately. Count all pieces against order sheet.

Install base cabinets

Start with corner unit. Level and shim carefully. Secure to wall studs.

Install upper cabinets

Mark level line 54" from floor. Install while base cabinets accessible.

Adjust doors and drawers

Fine-tune hinges and drawer glides so everything operates smoothly.

Install hardware and accessories

Add handles, knobs, pull-out shelves, lazy susans, and organizers.

Counters & Backsplash

Template countertops

Wait until cabinets installed. Fabricator creates exact template from your layout.

Choose countertop material

Quartz is durable and low-maintenance. Granite classic. Budget affects selection.

Install countertops

Professional installation required for stone. Ensure level and properly supported.

Plan backsplash layout

Choose tile, pattern, and grout color. Dry-lay pattern first.

Install backsplash tile

Use thin-set mortar. Spacers ensure even grout lines. Work in sections.

Grout and seal backsplash

Apply grout, let cure, then seal. Color-matched caulk at edges instead of grout.

Flooring

Choose flooring material

LVP is waterproof and durable. Tile classic but cold. Hardwood beautiful but not ideal near water.

Prepare subfloor

Must be clean, level, and dry. Fill low spots. Sand high spots.

Install underlayment if needed

LVP often includes attached pad. Tile needs cement board in wet areas.

Install flooring

Acclimate flooring 48 hours first. Start in most visible area. Leave expansion gaps.

Install transition strips and trim

Add reducers at doorways, quarter-round at edges if needed.

Fixtures & Appliances

Install sink and faucet

Undermount sinks attach from below. Drop-in sinks rest on counter. Seal all edges.

Install appliances

Dishwasher, refrigerator, range. Connect water, gas, and electrical as needed.

Install light fixtures

Mount pendant lights, under-cabinet lighting, and ceiling fixtures.

Install outlets and switches

Replace all electrical covers. Ensure GFCI protection where required.

Install hood vent

Range hoods should vent outside when possible. Secure to wall or ceiling.

Finishing

Paint walls and trim

Kitchen-specific paint resists moisture and wipes clean. Paint before final fixtures.

Install trim and molding

Crown molding, baseboards, and shoe molding complete the finished look.

Deep clean entire kitchen

Remove all dust, wipe surfaces, clean inside cabinets, wash floors.

Final walkthrough and punch list

Inspect every detail. Note any issues needing contractor attention.

Schedule final inspection

Building inspector verifies all work meets code. Required for permit closure.

Take after photos

Document your completed renovation from same angles as before photos.

Related Projects

Kitchen Refresh 1-2 weeks Kitchen Update 1-4 weeks Kitchen Remodel 3+ months