How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take? Realistic Timelines
- Cheridan Hojas
- Jan 15
- 7 min read
Planning a kitchen remodel is exciting. It means imagining better storage, new countertops, brighter lighting, and a space that finally works for your family.
One of the first questions homeowners ask is how long does a kitchen remodel take, because living without a fully functional kitchen quickly disrupts daily routines. Meals shift, appliances move, and normal schedules change fast.
We see these challenges firsthand on real projects at Burrini & Sons. That is why this guide breaks down realistic kitchen remodel timelines, from smaller updates that take a few weeks to full renovations that can last several months. We will also explain what speeds things up, what causes delays, and how to plan with confidence.
By the end, you will understand the full process and know what to expect at every stage, from demolition to the final walkthrough.
What Does a Kitchen Remodel Really Include?
Every kitchen remodel starts with one big decision: how big a transformation do you want? Some homeowners only need a fresh look, while others dream of a full layout change that feels like a brand-new home.
Before we talk about timelines, we need to understand what type of project you’re planning because that alone can shorten or stretch the entire schedule.
A two-week refresh is very different from a three-month renovation. Knowing your project scope will help you set the right expectations from day one.
Cosmetic Updates
This is the quickest type of remodel. It includes things like repainting cabinets, updating hardware, changing light fixtures, replacing a backsplash, or installing new faucets.
These upgrades can refresh your kitchen without major construction. They usually take the least amount of time because walls and plumbing stay where they are.
Standard Remodel
This is where we replace cabinets, countertops, flooring, and appliances. It may involve electrical or plumbing adjustments, but the layout mostly stays the same. This level brings the biggest transformation in function and style without fully gutting the space.
Full Remodel or Gut Renovation
This is the most extensive option. It often includes removing everything down to the studs, moving plumbing or walls, upgrading electrical, adding new lighting layouts, and installing custom cabinetry.
This type of remodel requires more planning, more materials, and more time to execute properly.
Understanding where your project fits helps you plan better. Whether you want a quick refresh or a complete rebuild, each path has its own timeline.
How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take? Realistic Timeline Based on Scope
Every homeowner wants a straight answer to this question, and we get it. Living through a remodel means rearranging meals, limited space, and a temporary shift in routine.
So how long does it actually take? The truth is that the timeline depends on the size and complexity of the project. Some kitchens are finished in weeks, while others take months to complete from planning to installation.
Here is a realistic overview based on industry data and the projects we complete for clients:
Minor Updates or Small Refresh
Simple upgrades like painting cabinets, replacing a backsplash, swapping hardware, or upgrading light fixtures often take a few days to 2–4 weeks. These projects move quickly because we're not tearing down walls or relocating appliances.
Standard Kitchen Remodel
If you want new cabinets, countertops, flooring, and modern appliances, this is the sweet spot for most homeowners.
With Burrini & Sons as your trusted kitchen remodel contractor, a standard renovation usually takes 8–12 weeks once construction begins. It is the perfect balance of transformation and timeline, giving you a fresh space without the commitment of a full structural overhaul.
Full Gut Remodel With Layout Changes
When we remove everything down to studs, reroute plumbing, update electrical, or install custom cabinetry, expect 3–6 months or more from planning to final walkthrough.
Larger projects need design, material lead time, permits, inspections, and more detailed construction work.
Kitchen Remodel Timeline: Phase by Phase Breakdown
Now that you know the typical timeframe based on project size, let’s break down what actually happens during a kitchen remodel. Understanding each stage helps you prepare, make decisions ahead of time, and avoid delays.
Here is what the journey usually looks like:
1. Planning and Design Phase
This is where ideas turn into a real plan. During design, we finalize layouts, choose materials, and set expectations based on scope and budget.
Homeowners often ask about the cost of a 12x12 kitchen remodel during this stage, and planning helps determine that more accurately depending on finishes, cabinetry, and labor needs.
The more decisions made upfront, the smoother the entire process flows. What happens during this stage:
Consultation and project goals
Layout planning and concept development
Material and finish selections
Final design approval
This is also the perfect time to gather inspiration, compare styles, and decide what you want your kitchen to feel like once complete.
2. Permits and Material Ordering
If your remodel involves plumbing, electrical, or structural changes, permits may be required. Every town processes approvals differently, which can impact timing.
Meanwhile, we order materials like cabinets, appliances, countertops, and flooring. Some items, especially custom ones, have longer lead times, so ordering early is key.
Typical duration: 2–8 weeks
Speed tip: Finalizing product selections early can reduce waiting time significantly.
3. Demolition and Prep Work
Once materials are on the way, it’s time to prepare the space. We remove old cabinets, countertops, appliances, flooring, and anything else being replaced.
If necessary, we also make wall or layout changes here. Demolition is usually one of the quickest stages, but it can reveal surprises that require attention.
Average duration: 1–2 weeks
This step is loud, dusty, and exciting. It’s when you start to see transformation.
4. Construction and Installation
This is where the magic happens. We install cabinets, electrical, plumbing connections, flooring, countertops, backsplash, lighting, and appliances. You will see steady progress every week as the room comes together.
Typical timeframe: 6–12 weeks depending on scope
What takes time here:
Cabinet installation and adjustments
Countertop fabrication & installation
Flooring and backsplash work
Appliance setup and finishing details
A good contractor keeps communication open so you always know what is coming next. That’s something we take seriously at Burrini & Sons.
5. Finishing Touches and Final Walkthrough
Small details pull everything together. Paint touch-ups, hardware installation, lighting adjustments, and final cleanup all happen here. We walk through the completed kitchen with you to ensure everything meets expectations.
Timeline: 1–2 weeks
This is the best part. You step into a polished kitchen that finally reflects your style and needs.
A full remodel from planning to completion can run anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on selections, scope, and customization. The right team makes all the difference.
Factors That Can Affect Your Kitchen Remodel Timeline
Every remodel is unique. Some projects finish faster, while others take more time because of decisions, materials, or unexpected findings once work begins. Knowing these factors ahead of time helps you plan better and avoid timeline surprises.
Here are the biggest things that influence how long a kitchen remodel takes:
Material selection: Stock materials arrive fast, custom items take longer.
Permits & inspections: Approvals and scheduling vary by town and may add time.
Project scope: Small refreshes are quick, full gut remodels take longer.
Hidden issues: Old wiring or leaks may add time and slightly affect the cost of backsplash installation or other finishing work.
Decision changes: Switching materials or layout mid-project can delay progress.
When you work with Burrini & Sons, we walk you through decisions up front and help you choose materials that match your style, budget, and desired timeline.
With good planning, communication, and expert guidance, you can move through your remodel confidently and enjoy the process instead of worrying about what happens next.
According to recent 2025 industry studies, most kitchen remodels take 8–12 weeks for construction, plus about 4–8 weeks for planning and design, which aligns closely with our experience on real Burrini & Sons projects.
Tips to Keep Your Kitchen Remodel On Schedule
Nobody wants their project to drag on longer than expected. The good news is that a smooth remodel timeline is possible when planning is done right.
Over the years, we’ve learned simple steps that help homeowners stay ahead and avoid unnecessary delays. These tips make a real difference when you want your new kitchen finished on time.
Here’s how to keep your remodel moving efficiently:
Finalize design decisions early to prevent backtracking
Order materials before construction to avoid waiting
Stick to your chosen layout and finishes once work begins
Choose in-stock products if you’re aiming for speed
Keep communication open with your contractor
Schedule permits and inspections as soon as plans are approved
Be ready to answer questions quickly to avoid project pauses
When homeowners follow these steps, projects run smoother, faster, and with less stress. At Burrini & Sons, we guide you through decisions from day one to help you choose materials and layouts that fit your style and timeline.
Your New Kitchen Starts With the Right Plan
A kitchen remodel is more than new cabinets and countertops. It is a reset for your home, your routine, and the way you enjoy everyday moments. Now you know how long a kitchen remodel takes and what really shapes the timeline, so planning becomes easier and more stress free.
The key to a smooth project is simple: make decisions early, stay organized, and work with a team that truly knows the process. That is where Burrini & Sons comes in. We guide you from design to final walkthrough, keep communication clear, and build with quality you can feel every time you walk into your kitchen.
Ready to start your kitchen remodel the right way? Schedule your consultation with Burrini & Sons today and let’s bring your dream kitchen to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a kitchen remodel take from start to finish?
A kitchen remodel can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the scope of work. Small cosmetic updates may be completed in 2–4 weeks, while a standard kitchen remodel often takes 8–12 weeks once construction begins. Full gut renovations with layout changes can take 3–6 months or longer when planning, permits, and custom materials are involved.
Can I live in my home during a kitchen remodel?
Yes, most homeowners stay in their home during a kitchen remodel, but daily routines will change. You may temporarily lose access to appliances, running water, or cooking space during certain phases. Many families set up a temporary kitchen in another room to make the process easier.
What part of a kitchen remodel takes the longest?
The construction and installation phase usually takes the most time. Cabinet installation, countertop fabrication, plumbing and electrical work, and finishing details all happen during this stage. Custom cabinetry and stone countertops often extend timelines due to fabrication schedules.
How can I speed up my kitchen remodel timeline?
Finalizing design decisions early, choosing in-stock materials, and sticking to your original plan once work begins can significantly shorten your remodel timeline. Working with an experienced contractor who manages scheduling, permits, and communication also helps keep the project moving smoothly.
Comments