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How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take?
A realistic timeline for kitchen remodels in the Raleigh area โ from first call to finished project.
One of the most common questions we hear: How long will this take? The answer depends on the work involved. Hereโs a ballpark, plus the pre-construction time most homeowners forget to count.
Small updates (1โ2 weeks)
Cabinet refacing, new countertops, or a backsplash refresh can often wrap in one to two weeks. Demo is minimal, and materials are usually in stock or have short lead times.
Mid-size remodels (4โ6 weeks)
Replacing cabinets, moving plumbing or electrical, or adding an island typically runs four to six weeks. Cabinet lead times (often 2โ4 weeks) and countertop templating add to the schedule.
Full gut remodels (8โ12 weeks)
A complete kitchen overhaul โ new layout, structural changes, new everything โ usually takes two to three months. We build in time for permits, inspections, and material deliveries.
The part that happens before demo
The construction clock isnโt the whole project. Before anyone swings a hammer:
- Estimate and design decisions โ usually one to three weeks depending on how quickly selections come together.
- Material ordering โ cabinets, countertops, fixtures, and tile ordered before the start date. Lead times of two to six weeks are common.
- Scheduling โ the start date gets set once the long-lead items have reliable arrival dates.
A project that โstarts fastโ with materials arriving mid-job almost always ends slower than one that starts after everything is in hand.
What affects the timeline
- Permits โ Electrical, plumbing, or structural work may require permits and inspections.
- Material lead times โ Custom cabinets and some countertops have longer lead times.
- Plan changes โ Changes mid-project can add time, especially after cabinets or tile are ordered.
- Hidden conditions โ Water damage, old wiring, or subfloor issues found in demo can add days for repair.
What a typical week looks like
For a mid-size remodel, the construction phase usually follows this order: demo, any plumbing/electrical rough-in, drywall and repair, cabinet installation, countertop template then install, backsplash, fixture and appliance connections, paint touch-ups, and punch list. Countertop templating is the step that surprises people โ it canโt happen until cabinets are set, and fabrication adds its own window.
How to keep your project on schedule
- Make selections early, and resist changing them after ordering.
- Approve the written scope before the start date.
- Plan for a temporary kitchen setup so the schedule isnโt driven by daily meal logistics.
- Respond quickly when a decision is needed mid-job.
We give you a clear timeline in your written quote and keep you updated as we go.
Ready to start your project?
Tell us what you want to change and we will map out the work, price range, and next step.
What homeowners are saying
Real feedback from recent renovation work.