Kitchen remodel timelines are usually longer and more complex than homeowners imagine. Demolition may seem like the starting point for remodels, but much of the timeline is determined before construction even begins. In fact, the initial planning and design phase, plus waiting for cabinetry and countertops, are often the most time-consuming steps.
Here’s what to expect for a kitchen remodel timeline, along with common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
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How long does a kitchen remodel actually take
From start to finish, a full kitchen remodel typically takes between three and six months, though larger projects can extend to eight months or longer.
Ultimately,
how long a remodel actually takes largely depends on project scope, homeowner decision-making and material availability.
What affects your kitchen remodel timeline
Several factors impact the overall timeline of your kitchen remodel:
- Project scope: Changing the layout of your kitchen, which involves moving walls and updating plumbing and electrical systems, greatly extends your project timeline compared to more standard upgrades.
- Material lead times: Lead times, or how long it takes for ordered materials to arrive, matter because remodels must happen in sequence. Cabinets are installed first, then counters are templated and set, followed by backsplashes and appliances.
- Decision-making: Changes during construction or undecided designs can prolong the project timeline, as it can require reordering components or rescheduling contractors.
- Unforeseen issues: Opening walls can expose structural problems or other conditions that must be addressed before continuing.
How long each part of a kitchen remodel takes
In general, the most time-consuming steps of a kitchen remodel are the initial design process and manufacturing custom cabinetry. Cabinets in particular take so long because they often need to be designed, custom-built and shipped, which can take many weeks.
Here’s what homeowners can generally expect for each step of a kitchen remodel:
Common delays that extend kitchen remodel timelines
Unexpected issues that come up during construction, long delivery wait times and mid-project design changes are all common delays during kitchen remodeling projects.
Unexpected structural, plumbing or electrical issues
Although most planning takes place during the design phase, you can’t always predict issues that can arise during construction. “Upon demo, additional support structures, hidden beams or concealed conditions can reveal additional work that is needed,” says Brandon Perry, CEO of The Fortress Project, a nonprofit construction and remodeling company in River Falls, WI. This extra work can include updating electrical or plumbing systems or adding new structural support.
Material shortages and long lead times
A common delay that homeowners have little control over is lead times, or how long it takes materials to arrive after placing an order. “Many materials used in construction and renovation projects are imported. ... In this moment of financial uncertainty amid rising inflation and tariffs, we’re having to navigate higher costs and longer delays accessing these materials,” says Miles Smith, an architect and senior industry growth and strategy manager at Graphisoft, an architecture software design company.
In particular, customized products like cabinets and countertops can add months to a project if there are significant delays.
Mid-project design changes and decision delays
Indecision and changing plans during construction are other major reasons remodeling projects slow down. “Homeowners get pulled into the process, start second-guessing choices, and that leads to change orders, added costs and a longer timeline,” says Amanda Valente, the co-founder and COO of Renovation Sells.
Beyond larger structural work, delays can also come from the surprising number of small design choices involved in a remodel. “Most homeowners start with a vision of their finished room, but don’t account for all of the smaller decisions they’ll have to make along the way, like backsplash finishes, cabinet knobs and drawer slides,” Smith says.
Our picks for top kitchen appliances for any remodel
When you remodel any kitchen, you're likely to replace some or all of your existing appliances. The following are among the best-reviewed we've encountered, and should make a great addition to most modern setups.
LG MAX French Door Refrigerator
This name-brand appliance is high-capacity and comes loaded with features, including an internal water dispenser, ice maker, easy glide drawers and far more. If you're upgrading your flooring and countertops, we think that you should give this a look as well. See why more than 4,000 customers have rated this product so highly when you shop LG.
Shop this industry-leading refrigerator today.
Bosch 300-Series
At just 24 inches wide, the Bosch 300-Series offers a compact under-counter solution for cleaning with a modern look. It also features seven distinct wash cycles and a low noise output. Shop this, or one of Bosch's larger models at Lowe's.
See why Bosch dishwashers are so in-demand.
Cafe 4-Burner Range
With smartphone compatibility and control, this oven comes with modern features, with a timeless appeal. Two independent ovens and an edge-to-edge cooktop offer plenty of possibilities and higher capacity prep for larger families and gatherings.
Shop this unique kitchen centerpiece today.
Whynter Wine Cooler
This can fit under a counter, or as a freestanding unit, and is perfect for anyone who frequently entertains friends or family. An LED temperature readout, six slide-out shelves and a locking feature all contribute to high ratings from customers.
Shop this luxury addition at The Home Depot.
Tips to make your kitchen remodel stay on track
Although not every aspect of a kitchen remodel can be controlled, there are steps homeowners can take to keep their kitchen remodel on track:
- Take your time during the design phase. Finalizing decisions before construction begins creates a clear structure for the remodel and prevents costly changes after work has begun.
- Work with a contractor or designer. Working with a professional from the outset of your project can help you stay realistic while still achieving your vision. Verify that your designer has a team in place and knows which subcontractors they plan to use throughout the project to save time searching.
- Order materials early. Manufacturing custom materials, or even getting the appliances you want, can take several weeks. Place orders as early as possible to avoid potential bottlenecks.
- Assign one person to give final approval. Homeowners need to make many decisions throughout their kitchen renovation. Designating one person to sign off on final decisions, rather than deliberating each design choice, helps contractors move quickly when questions arise.
Ultimately, making decisions early and sticking to them is the best thing you can do to keep your project running smoothly.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average kitchen remodel timeline?
A full kitchen remodel typically takes between three and six months, though more complex projects can take eight months or more.
Why do kitchen remodels take longer than expected?
Kitchen remodels can take longer than expected due to material delays and shortages, mid-project design changes, and unexpected structural or electrical issues during construction.
Can you live at home during a kitchen remodel?
It is often possible to live at home during a kitchen remodel. One option is to create a “temporary kitchen” during the renovation by moving the existing fridge, a microwave and other basic supplies to another part of the home.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How long does a kitchen remodel take? Pros share a realistic timeline
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