Kitchen planning

How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take?

By Kitchen and Bath Renovators Editorial TeamUpdated October 19, 2026How we priced this

How long does a kitchen remodel take? HomeAdvisor puts construction at 6 to 10 weeks after about 4 weeks of planning. Homeowners in the 2026 Houzz and Home Study reported longer projects: 9.5 months of planning and 5.8 months of construction on average.

The Phases, in Order

Step 1
Design and quotes
About 4 weeks (HomeAdvisor)
Measure, settle the layout and get at least three written quotes for the same scope.
Step 2
Ordering
Custom cabinets: 6 to 12 weeks to build (Fixr)
Cabinets drive the lead time. Ask your supplier for a ship date before you book demolition.
Step 3
Permits
Needed when plumbing, wiring, ventilation or walls change; cabinet and countertop swaps are finish work under the model code (Springville City, Utah, Community Development, Work Exempt From Permits, 2021 IRC (2025-07-21 (file revision date))). Your city sets the timeline.
Step 4
Demolition
Old cabinets, counters and flooring come out.
Step 5
Rough-in and inspection
New plumbing and wiring go in and are inspected before walls close (City of Benson, Arizona, Work not requiring a Permit, according to the 2024 IRC (undated handout quoting the 2024 IRC)).
Step 6
Walls, floors and cabinets
Drywall, flooring and cabinet installation.
Step 7
Countertops
2 to 3 weeks from template to install for granite (Fixr); install takes about a day (HomeAdvisor)
The fabricator templates the installed cabinets, cuts the slab, then installs.
Step 8
Finish and final inspection
Backsplash, fixtures, appliances, punch list and the final inspection.

What Makes It Take Longer

Custom cabinets, moving walls or plumbing, damage found behind walls, inspection backlogs and changes after work starts. In the 2026 Houzz and Home Study, 37% of renovating homeowners went over budget, and 22% of those blamed unexpected construction issues (Houzz Inc., 2026 U.S. Houzz & Home Study: Renovation Trends (covers renovations done in 2025) (2026 (survey fielded January to March 2026; report covered by the Composite Panel Association on 2026-05-14))). Surprises cost time as well as money.

How to Keep It on Schedule

Order cabinets before demolition and confirm the ship date in writing.
Approve every selection, down to the faucet and grout color, before work starts.
Put the schedule and the change-order process in the contract.

Living Through It

Set up a temporary kitchen in another room with a microwave, a kettle and a folding table. Plan for days without water or power to the kitchen during rough-in.

Frequently Asked Questions