However, the burning question is just how many months this extensive undertaking typically requires to complete. However, there is no common consensus on this matter, and the duration fluctuates significantly depending on individual perspectives.
With this in mind, we have decided to touch on the matter and provide you with a clear perspective of the possible timeline you can expect when remodeling your kitchen, discussing how you expedite the project and what factors slow it down as well.
How Long Does a Full Kitchen Renovation Typically Take?
Kitchen remodeling is quite a lengthy process than room renovation or whole-house remodeling due to the complexity of the process and the multiple tasks involved. Such as remodeling the kitchen entails changing the water line and electrical system, hiring different types of professionals, selecting various materials like cabinets, countertops, tiles, and others, and obtaining the necessary permits. All these processes and steps make this project extensively time-consuming.
Depending on the scope of the project and associated entities, it may take 6 to 10 weeks to remodel an average-sized kitchen, with the planning phase kept aside. Bear in mind that planning is crucial for the project’s efficient and smooth operation.
But for fuller, larger, and more complex kitchen remodeling, it may take up to 5 months and sometimes even one year to accomplish your desired result. This type of remodeling includes changing and upgrading the electrical system and building or installing customized cabinets, countertops, and layouts. Moreover, it also needs cooperation with various subcontractors, including electricians, plumbers, and designers.
For a better understanding of the whole process of kitchen remodeling, you can also check out our other article on Kitchen Remodel 101.
What Can Expedite the Kitchen Renovation Process?
Although it is clear to us that any small to big kitchen renovation takes more than months to complete, sometimes a shorter deadline can push us to expedite our process of working. Here is how you do it.
Extensively Plan for Makeover
Keep a properly worked-out plan in place. From design and materials to the wiring and water connection, every detail should be thought through before initiating the project. When you have a proper plan on paper, you won’t need to make any necessary changes midway, helping the project continue smoothly. Set aside at least one month for planning and provide key attention to every detail to avoid regrets once the project is completed.
Obtain Detailed Drawings
Before executing the plan, also try to get a detailed drawing of the kitchen you are going to renovate. It is better if you can obtain a 3D rendering of the modified kitchen. This visual reference can help you make informed decisions and avoid surprises along the way.
Early Material Orders
Most people waste time ordering materials and products after the remodeling begins, which can disrupt smooth operations and cause delays. To minimize waiting time for essential components, place orders for materials and products well in advance.
Plan for Budget
Set a clear budget before you start the transformation. Determining a budget and sticking to it is very challenging in kitchen remodeling. Because most of the time, people exceed the limit of budget for not having a well-structured plan in place. Decide how much you want to spend, make your list of priorities, and avoid unnecessary expenses.
What are Some Common Reasons for Project Delays During Kitchen Remodeling?
Given the extended timeframe, you can not afford to spend more time than usual committing some common mistakes. Understanding these common reasons can help homeowners mitigate potential setbacks:
Product Back-Orders
You don’t want to wait for materials and appliances to arrive in the middle of work. This is the most common cause of delays. It’s essential to order items well in advance and have alternative options to avoid this.
Scheduling Conflict Between Different Professions
When you separately hire and appoint subcontractors like plumbers and electricians, it is more likely to cause a delay as there is a higher possibility of scheduling conflicts with essential specialists like electricians or plumbers.
That’s why allocating the task to a good contractor is better to avoid unforeseen delays. A contractor with a robust network of subcontractors is well-versed in these issues and can handle them properly. He can maintain a balanced schedule for different professionals, which doesn’t cause any timing conflict.
Hidden Electrical and Plumbing Damage
During the project, workers may find hidden plumbing damages or faulty electrical wiring, significantly extending the project timeline. These must be addressed before any further work can proceed.
Hidden structural problems often come to light when the old kitchen is demolished and the underlying infrastructure is exposed. It’s crucial for homeowners to understand that these issues, mostly unexpected, are not uncommon in older homes.
Additional Delays
With all having said, there are also some additional causes of delays. For example, if the homeowners want to bring a change in plan and design during construction, it immensely disrupts the workflow and leads to delays.
That’s why it is important to have a proper, well-thought-out plan beforehand. Besides, homeowners can also encounter delays in obtaining necessary permits from local authorities.
Why Do Kitchen Remodels Take So Long?
Kitchen remodeling is a multi-step, lengthy process that involves various professionals with different specialties, such as electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and subcontractors. One technician has to wait for the completion of the other’s task; in some parts, there needs to be proper coordination of two different subtractors to complete their respective task.
For example, a cabinetry installation professional has to wait in the middle for an electrician to set up the wiring and fixtures for the under-cabinet lighting.
Failure to coordinate these tasks could lead to delays and require rework. A synchronized effort among different subcontractors helps complete the kitchen remodeling process.
What is the Typical Duration for a Kitchen Remodel that Does not Involve Plumbing and Electrical Systems Changes?
A kitchen remodel without changing the plumbing and electrical connection can be wrapped up in a shorter period than the standard timespan. Typically, it can take around 4 to 8 weeks to complete the kitchen remodeling project where plumbing and electrical wiring paths remain in place. In this case, we are assuming that you are only upgrading fixtures, cabinetry, countertops, and flooring.
However, this estimate is not something set in stone; rather, it varies a lot based on the scope of the remodel, the level of customization of various parts,, and other influential factors discussed in the above sections. It is advisable to consult with professionals and contractors to get a more accurate timeline based on your specific project requirements.
Related Questions
How Often Should You Renovate a Kitchen?
Answer: You may not want to do kitchen renovations frequently. The simple reason is it makes you shell out a lot of cash. Most of the people do kitchen remodeling whenever the situation calls for it.
A well-designed and well-built kitchen can last 15-20 years with small modifications and repairs like modifying sink areas or updating lighting fixtures. Overall, you can remodel your kitchen after every 15 years or so. Also, if you want to stay updated with the trending kitchen outlooks, you can do it whenever you like.
Is it Worth Putting in a New Kitchen?
Answer: It comes down to the current state of the kitchen. If your kitchen has a damaged plumbing system, worn-out cabinets, and faulty fixtures, you should consider renovating. It is not worth remodeling if it is tidy enough and all the parts are functional. But if you want to update your old kitchen with new facilities and dream looks, you are only person who can measure the worth.
What is the Perfect Kitchen Size?
Ans: The size of the kitchen depends on the size of the house and the number of members in the home. It also varies in single-storied and multi-storied homes. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) study, “The average size of a kitchen in newly-built single-family homes is 161 square feet.”
Conclusion
The journey of kitchen remodeling is not just challenging. Trust me, it is exciting as well. The more you get closer to the finish line, the happier and more delighted you will be. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the duration, we hope we’ve shed light on the general length of the process and the key factors that can influence the timeline.
With careful planning and the right approach, you can turn your kitchen renovation into a rewarding experience that brings your dream space to life.
