How Long Does a Kitchen Renovation take? What to Expect

How long will my kitchen renovation take?

Depending on the scale of your project, the time frame for your kitchen renovation could be impacted by a number of factors, including:

• any structural work required
• moving plumbing and/or electrical elements
• unforeseen events e.g. discovering asbestos in your wall or floor cavities

If you’re working with a kitchen designer you should allow at least 6 to 8 weeks to design your kitchen. This includes time to meet with them, taking required measurements and developing a draft plan to be followed. Make as many tweaks and edits until you’re happy with the final design. Getting everything to fit, especially in a custom kitchen can take time. You’ll also need to lock in your appliances, cabinetry and all other finishes ahead of this stage. This is to ensure measurements will align correctly.

Mathieu Project – Kitchen

Photo Source: Pinterest

If you are ordering custom cabinetry, expect to wait anywhere from 4-12 weeks for the cabinets to be manufactured. Imported lines can potentially mean an even longer wait. If you are going for a flat-pack kitchen or an IKEA kitchen, then choosing the right combination of cabinets and having them delivered is all you need to take care of. However, don’t expect the same quality as a custom kitchen. The fit and finish will never be the same. Cabinetry is a major item that can hold up the whole project, so all time frames need to be carefully aligned around the delivery of this crucial component.

For the demolition and prep work, simply removing the old cabinetry should take no longer than a day. Then the prep work for the new installation can begin. This will include any plumbing, electrical, and flooring work that needs to be done. The time-frame for this stage could range from a few days for a simple project to 4 weeks or more if there are significant structural changes to be made.

The actual installation of your kitchen cabinetry and countertops is usually relatively quick once they are delivered. This is assuming everything fits correctly and nothing is damaged during the installation process. If you’re planning on installing custom stone or engineered countertops, expect a few delays between the installation of the cabinets and the counters. Your contractor will need to take measurements to ensure the cabinetry is put in place correctly for the next 15 years! There will typically be a shorter wait for laminate counters as they tend to be simpler to manufacture. Your backsplash will also be installed during this stage. You will, therefore, need to forecast a day or two ahead for the installation of the glass or tiles.

Forgues Project – Kitchen Renovation

Photo Source: Pinterest

Finally, installing new appliances and fixtures is relatively simple. But still allow 1-2 days, assuming all dimensions have been calculated correctly.

You should also figure out how you plan to dispose of old appliances e.g. trade-in through a dealer, sell online, donate or give to a scrap metal dealer. The contractors you hire should also provide a thorough clean-up as part of their services. This includes the disposal of scraps and dust so that your brand new kitchen will be ready for use.

For further information about what’s involved in a kitchen remodel, visit our dedicated kitchen renovation page and article on approximate costs you can expect.

Konidas Project – Kitchen Renovation

Photo Source: Pinterest

Ready to start your kitchen renovation project?

To speak to a renovation advisor for guidance on how to get started and prices, give us a call on 1-888-670-9742. Your renovation advisor will speak with you to understand your project and refer up to three Verified local contractors to provide competing quotes so you get the right price. Your advisor will also review the estimates with you to help you make an informed decision. This service is entirely free and with absolutely no obligation to you!