How Long Does It Take to Remodel a Small Kitchen?

Wondering how long does it take to remodel a small kitchen? A small kitchen remodel can take anywhere between six weeks to four months based on the complexity of your remodeling project.

How Long Does It Take to Remodel a Small Kitchen?

Things To Know

• A small kitchen remodeling project usually takes six weeks to four months to complete.
• Major structural changes in your kitchen can add couple of weeks to overall kitchen renovation duration.
• Sourcing custom and exotic materials can take weeks.
• You may not be able to use the kitchen for about six weeks while your kitchen is under renovation.

Timeline of a Small Kitchen Remodel

For the majority of homeowners, a kitchen renovation typically spans from six weeks to four months, depending on the project’s complexity. On the shorter end, if you’re lucky and the necessary items are readily available, you could be enjoying your new countertops and cabinets in just six weeks. On the flip side, a more intricate process involving planning, procurement, construction, and bureaucratic hurdles might extend the timeline to a leisurely six months.

The good news is that, for most of the renovation, you can still use your kitchen. It’s only likely to be out of commission for approximately six weeks. So, plan your takeout choices and set up a temporary kitchen accordingly. While pizza is a classic, it might lose its charm after a while!

Small Kitchen Remodel Duration based on Remodeling Type

Here’s a break down on how long does it take to remodel a small kitchen based on the scale of remodel.

Small Scale Remodel

When it comes to small-scale kitchen remodels, you’re looking at a timeline of about four to eight weeks, assuming there are no major hiccups. If you’re giving your kitchen a facelift with new appliances, cabinetry, and flooring, plan for approximately two months from demolition to completion. As long as you’re not rearranging the layout or tackling plumbing/electrical changes, one to two months is a reasonable timeframe for these petite remodels. And if you’re feeling adventurous with some DIY tasks like painting or flooring, you can even speed up the process.

Medium Scale Remodel

Perhaps you fancy adding a kitchen island or upgrading to more personalized cabinetry. For a medium-scale remodel like this, anticipate a timeline of eight to ten weeks before you can reclaim your kitchen. This type of makeover typically involves revamping all your appliances, kitchen lighting, fixtures, cabinetry, countertops, and flooring. Since you’re not dealing with layout changes or wall demolitions, you can skip the waiting game for permits and inspections, making the process faster than a major renovation.

Large Scale Remodel

When it’s a large-scale kitchen remodel, we’re talking about the whole shebang—relocating plumbing, electrical work, gas lines, installing luxurious countertops, high-end appliances, and reshaping the entire space. Due to the extensive nature of this renovation, be prepared for a timeframe of about five to six months, possibly longer if there are delays in getting appliances or materials. With walls coming down and a fresh start on the horizon, the reconstruction to meet your exact preferences will naturally take more time.

Small Kitchen Remodel Timeline – Affecting Factors

Opting for Tailored Countertops and Cabinetry

Customizations aren’t just an extra expense; they also extend your kitchen remodel timeline by weeks, involving the design, sourcing, and construction phases. Prefabricated options offer a quicker alternative all around.

Selecting Specialized Tiles and Materials

Acquiring exotic, high-end materials takes longer compared to common alternatives. Popular finishes, styles, and materials are generally readily available, either in stock or with short manufacturing times.

Dealing with Backordered Items

If an item is on backorder, be prepared for a waiting period ranging from weeks to months.

Navigating Labor Shortages

Ongoing shortages in labor and materials have resulted in delays in shipping, procurement, and construction. In certain cases, these setbacks could add weeks to your overall timeline.

Adapting to Design Changes

Altering your design mid-construction significantly prolongs your kitchen renovation timeline.

Facing Permitting Delays

Some regions are still grappling with pandemic- or labor-related processing delays, impacting the time it takes to obtain necessary permits.

Small Kitchen Remodel : Stages Explained

Designing Your Remodel (1-2 weeks)

Before you embark on construction, the initial step is designing your kitchen. Consider hiring an architect for structural changes, aiming for detailed drawings or 3D renderings for a comprehensive view. Need inspiration? Explore trendy kitchen designs online.

Securing a Contractor 3 weeks

The success of your remodel hinges on the contractor, so choose a skilled, reliable local remodeling contractor. Hiring a nearby kitchen designer can ensure your design aligns with goals and budget. Interview at least three professionals, discuss timelines and budgets, and ask for references.

Obtaining Permits 2-4 Weeks

Plan for 2-4 weeks to secure necessary permits for kitchen remodeling. Requirements vary by location, and approval takes time. Obtain permits for structural changes, plumbing, electrical work, and ventilation alterations. Delays may impact construction timelines.

Sourcing Materials 2-4 weeks

Selecting the right materials elevates your kitchen’s appearance. Choose fixtures, countertops, backsplash tiles, flooring, cabinetry, and paint during this phase. Shipping times vary; expect weeks, potentially months for back-ordered items.

Demolition 1-4 days

Clearing the way for your new kitchen involves knocking down walls, removing cabinetry, and flooring. Demolition typically spans 1-4 days.

Construction 3-6 weeks

Construction transforms your dream into reality. Begin with structural changes, rerouting plumbing, and electrical work.

Electricity and plumbing work: 1-4 days

Major structural changes: 2-5 weeks

Flooring and cabinet installation: 1-2 weeks

Countertop fabrication and installation: 1-2 weeks

Painting and backsplash installation: 2-3 days

Fixture, Hardware, and Appliance Installation: <1 week The finishing touches include lighting fixtures, cabinetry hardware, and appliance installation—completed in less than a week.

Conclusion of the project: 1 day Post-construction cleanup, typically lasting a day, precedes the final walkthrough to ensure everything meets expectations.