Kitchen remodeling has a reputation for taking a long time to complete. With all of the planning and renovations involved in the process, it’s no wonder why it can seem like a hassle for some home owners.
If you’re thinking of remodeling your kitchen and you’re wondering how long the process will take, we hope this article can shed some light on the process for the average client.
Why does it take so long?
Remodeling your kitchen doesn’t usually happen as easily as it does in TV shows. It takes a long time and a lot of people to make all of the pieces fit. There is a lot of planning involved in remodeling a kitchen and, even more so, a lot of questions or concerns that you may have.
The amount of time that it takes to complete your kitchen renovation will depend on the particulars of your project. For most normal projects, a kitchen replacement or remodeling will usually take between 3-5 months according to HGTV.
Timetable
To get a better idea of how long your kitchen remodel will take, it may be helpful for you to have a timeline describing the process.
Finding a Contractor (Indefinite)
Finding a contractor is an important part of the remodeling process or any home renovation in general. Consider how your reviews and meetings have went up to this point.
Generally, the more organized and prompt your contractor is from the beginning, the more likely they will continue to deliver those qualities throughout the project. Once you’ve chosen your contractor, you can ask them to give you an estimate for the rest of the project.
Initial Design Process (Maximum 3 days)
This step should take between 1 – 3 days. However, the exact time will depend on how big your project is. Before beginning this phase of the project, you should communicate your needs to your contractor. Tip: Great contractors and companies will be experienced enough to gather your needs and ideas when first meeting.
Finalize Design Process (Up to 4 weeks)
The final kitchen design process requires more time for your contractor to ensure all of the products and measurements that are going to be used in the field meet building codes and standards. Once again, your contractor will come to you during this time to address any changes to your initial vision.
Ordering Product (Up to 2 months)
When it comes to ordering products, most general contractors will have a lead time system to ensure receiving products at the correct time frame. If any products don’t come in time, you’ll be able to reorder them or change the product entirely. Due to supplier inventory, this window can change abruptly.
Demolition/Structural Changes (2 days – 2 months)
If you want to make changes to the internal structure of your home, you should expect this to take some time. You should consider these changes before you decide to make any others as moving walls is one of the most expensive things to change when working on your existing kitchen.
Installing the Floors (2 days)
On average most When you’re thinking about the amount of time it’ll take to complete the floors, you should also consider whether you’ll be doing them yourself or whether you’ll be paying someone else to do so.
Installing the Cabinets (4 days)
The length of your cabinet installation will depend on who’s doing the installation. For example, whether you or a professional will be installing it. The number of cabinets will also affect the amount of time that you spend on the installation.
Counter-top Measurement (1 day)
You should make time to measure your counter tops before you communicate with your vendor. This will save both you and your vendor time. Since they may only be able to deliver your counter tops on specific days of the week, it’ll be helpful for you to have the measurements ready in advance.
Delivery can take between 5 and 28 days when you choose someone close to you. If you choose an international seller, the wait time can be longer.
Installing the Appliances (2 days)
Next, you’ll need to plan the appliance installation. The installation process shouldn’t last beyond 2 days and it will include any ventilation or heavy appliances like dishwashers, stoves etc.
Install Lighting (2 days)
Some people decide to complete the installation themselves. However, you may want to consult a professional before you decide to do so.
Installing the Backsplash (2 days)
The backsplash installation time will depend on the kind of backsplash you’re having installed. It should take a maximum of 2 days and, in most cases, it will take 1 day.
Other Things to Consider
Once you’ve completed all of your planning, there are other things that you should consider before you actually begin the remodeling. Here, you can read about some of the details involved in remodeling your kitchen and why some steps will need more consideration.
Removing Your Original Kitchen
You will, for example, have to remove your original kitchen. You’ll also have to remove any cabinets, flooring, countertops, and appliances. You can expect to spend a few days doing this.
Labeling
You’ll need to label everything in your kitchen like any electrical outlets and power lines to allow for easier reinstall.
Installing the Plumbing and Electrical Systems
The installation of your electrical and plumbing systems should take less than a week but is required for any finished project to be passed. Altogether, this should only take a few days but is dependent on the availability of tradesmen.
Final Thoughts
For those looking to remodel their kitchen, the process of home improvement can feel long and dreary. Planning each step and keeping track of every change can also be tedious at times, but can save you money and time, which is why we’re here. If you have more questions that we haven’t answered thus far, feel free to reach out to us today!