Kitchen remodels are no simple task. If you’re here, it’s because you’re wondering, “how long does a kitchen remodel take?” — And you want straightforward answers.
Well, the simple answer is that the typical kitchen remodeling project can take anywhere from three to nine weeks. The more complicated answer is that it really depends on the type of remodeling you have in mind.
For example, a complete kitchen remodel is going to take much longer compared to a basic remodel, such as installing new flooring or cabinetry. Of course, if you don’t hire the right team of contractors and you don’t create a clear plan (with a budget) for a large scope of work, you’re looking at a longer-than-necessary timeline. Even for the simpler remodeling projects.
While the entire kitchen remodel process can be a bit daunting, just remember that the end result will be a beautiful new kitchen that’s more functional and enjoyable. In this article, we’ll walk you through the whole process — including the things you need to consider which will impact your timeline.
Things to Consider Before Remodeling Your Kitchen
You can consider this the “pre-planning” phase for your kitchen remodel, and it’s arguably the most important step since it’ll set the tone for the overall design as well as more realistic expectations for the whole project. It’ll also help to ensure that things run smoothly so you can avoid mid-project snags and the compromises that follow.
Here are the things you’ll need to consider before getting started:
1) Your Needs
Think about how you use your kitchen now and what it is you wish you could change about it.
Are you cooking for a large family (four or more people) every day or is it just you and your significant other ordering takeout most of the time? Do you wish your kitchen was more holiday-party friendly or are you just looking for a simple refresh with a bit more storage for cookware?
Lastly, are you trying to increase your home’s value by adding kitchen upgrades that buyers are looking for because you want to sell your home soon?
These are the important questions you need to ask yourself. You’ll also need to think about your personal style preferences to get a bigger picture of what’s needed to ensure your new kitchen serves the right purpose. They’re also things you’ll need to know since you’ll be discussing them with your contractor.
2) Your (Realistic) Budget
If you’ve been on Home Advisor lately, then you’ve seen that the average kitchen remodeling job costs about $150 per square foot, which works out to about $25,885. However, the average kitchen remodel can run you anywhere between $13,375 and $38,409, with major renovations doubling up to around $70,000 or more.
The total cost will vary based on a number of factors, including the space’s size, the type of materials used, and other changes you plan to make. The smaller projects that include things like painting walls, refacing cabinets, upgrading the sink, or installing a tile backsplash will come at lower costs whereas things like custom cabinets, new flooring and countertops, and upgraded appliances will tip the scales upwards of $30,000.
While the higher end of the cost spectrum may be great for your resale value, it’s more important to consider what you can realistically afford so you:
- Don’t go into debt with an extensive kitchen renovation
- Can plan the design and choose the materials and upgrades accordingly
Keep in mind that you’ll have an experienced contractor by your side who can help you make the best design decisions based on your budget.
3) What Kitchen Features Will You Keep?
Sticking with your current appliances or cabinets can save you a lot of money, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
For example, if your kitchen currently has all-wood cabinets that are a little worn down, you can save money by having them repainted and having new hardware installed for them. You can also have them rearranged within your space for a fresher look.
Keep in mind that just because you hang on to your old appliances now doesn’t mean you can’t upgrade them later.
4) How Many Cooks Do You Have in Your Home?
Are you the only cook in your home? Does your significant other like to inconveniently stand in front of the cabinets and drawers you need to get into while cooking? Maybe you have kids or grandkids that like to help out in the kitchen?
The point is, you’ll want to think about the number of people your kitchen needs to accommodate on a regular basis — or even on a holiday basis if everyone comes to you— so you can map out a more efficient design. That way, no one will be bumping into anyone else while trying to get around.
When it comes to planning your kitchen design with all of the above in mind, you don’t want to rush it. Plan on dedicating at least two weeks to the design stage, especially since your contractor will likely have their own questions and need to see the space they’ll be working with.
Now let’s run through the rest of the steps involved in kitchen remodeling and what you can expect timewise:
The Average Kitchen Remodel Process and Timeline
The classic question “how long does a kitchen remodel take” is difficult to answer because every remodel is different. Depending on the desired style, functionality, and budget, a kitchen remodel could take anywhere from a few weeks to months. Due to this wide time range, we’re going to break down the key phases and timeline of a typical remodel.
The Demolition Phase ????
Removing your existing kitchen is arguably the quickest part of the entire remodel. It’s especially quick if every single feature, fixture, and appliance down to the studs and floors is being replaced.
The job itself will be pretty noisy and dirty, but it should only take to completely gut a kitchen.
The Rough Construction Phase ????
The rough construction stage involves making structural changes to your kitchen’s previous layout. This could include putting up new walls, installing new power or water sources, new windows, doors, islands, bars, and so on.
This is a crucial phase in your kitchen remodel project as it typically involves plumbing, electrical, and other mechanical contractors to come in and make the necessary adjustments to the space. It’s also difficult work, which means the rough construction phase can take anywhere from two to five weeks.
The Drywall, Paint, and Flooring Phase ????
This is also considered to be part of the rough construction phase. However, it comes with its own time slot simply because it involves finishing up new walls with drywall, painting said walls and installing the new flooring. These things cannot be done until after the first part of the reconstruction phase and must be done before moving on to the next few remodeling phases.
This usually takes up to two weeks before the real fun begins.
The Cabinets and Countertops Phase ????
One important thing to understand about this next phase is that it is both quick and very slow. This is because new cabinets, after taking the appropriate measurements, can take several months to build. However, their installation is relatively quick, taking only about three to five days.
Countertops, on the other hand, take a bit longer since they have to be accurately cut to accommodate certain appliances and, of course, your sink. This can take both onsite and offsite fabrication to get right, which can take one to three months. From there, the installation will only take up to three days to complete.
Ideally, the construction wouldn’t begin until these important pieces are finished (or near finished) with fabrication.
The Fixture and Appliance Installment Phase ????
If you’ve decided to keep your appliances, then this phase is incredibly quick. If you’re awaiting shipment, then the timeframe will depend on your shipping estimates. The same goes for any new fixtures.
Things like hardware, such as cabinet handles, and drawer pulls can be installed in a day or two.
The Cleanup Phase ????
The best kitchen contractors will make sure that your kitchen is completely spotless and ready for action within just a few days after the last fixture is installed and the last screw is tightened.
They’ll also be sure to haul away any excess materials being stored on your property as well as dumpsters — ensuring that not a scrap is left behind.
Once the work is done, however long it takes you to unpack and set up your new kitchen is how long it will take to enjoy it.
The First Step to Getting the Kitchen You Deserve
At The Heartland Builders, we believe that everyone should have the kitchen they deserve. That’s why our professional contractors work hard to exceed all expectations— especially the expectations involving a realistic remodeling time frame. Get a free quote on your kitchen remodel today, and don’t hesitate to call us with any questions!
