When homeowners come to us at Armored Painting, one of the most common questions we hear is: “How long will my kitchen remodel take?” It’s a fair question. The kitchen is the heart of the home—it’s where we gather, cook, and connect with family and friends. Having it out of commission for an extended period can feel overwhelming.
The truth is, every kitchen remodel is unique. The timeline depends on factors such as the scope of work, size of the kitchen, materials chosen, and even how quickly decisions are made. That said, there are general stages and timeframes we can share to help you plan ahead.
In this article, we’ll walk through the phases of a kitchen remodel, what can influence the duration, and how you can prepare for a smoother process.
Key Takeaways
- Small kitchen remodels can take as little as 3–6 weeks, while full-scale renovations may take 10–16 weeks or longer.
- Planning and design often take more time than homeowners expect—sometimes up to 4–8 weeks before construction even begins.
- Delays often happen due to permits, material availability, or last-minute changes.
- Hiring an experienced contractor like Armored Painting helps keep projects on schedule.
- Good communication and preparation will save you time, stress, and money during the remodel.
Phase 1: Planning and Design (2–8 Weeks)
Before we pick up a hammer, there’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work that sets the stage for a successful remodel.
During this phase, we:
- Work with you to outline your budget and goals
- Create design concepts that reflect your vision
- Help you choose materials, such as cabinets, countertops, flooring, paint, and lighting
- Submit the necessary permits to your local building department
This stage usually takes between 2 and 8 weeks, depending on how decisive you are about your selections. Homeowners who know exactly what they want can move more quickly, while those exploring multiple design ideas may take longer.
Pro tip: Finalize as many choices as possible before construction starts. It’s one of the best ways to keep your project on schedule.
Phase 2: Demolition (1–2 Weeks)
Once the planning is done and permits are in place, we begin demolition.
This step includes:
- Removing old cabinets, countertops, appliances, and flooring
- Taking down walls if we’re opening up the layout
- Safely disposing of debris
On average, demolition takes 1 to 2 weeks. We work carefully to protect the rest of your home from dust and damage, setting up barriers and using specialized equipment.
Phase 3: Structural, Plumbing, and Electrical Work (2–4 Weeks)
After demolition, we focus on the “behind-the-walls” work.
This stage may include:
- Relocating plumbing for sinks, dishwashers, or refrigerators
- Updating or upgrading electrical wiring for modern appliances
- Adjusting ductwork or ventilation
- Making structural changes, like adding support beams for open-concept layouts
This is one of the most critical parts of the remodel, and it usually takes 2 to 4 weeks. Delays can occur here if permits aren’t ready or if inspections take longer than expected. At Armored Painting, we coordinate directly with inspectors to keep things moving smoothly.
Phase 4: Installation of Cabinets, Countertops, and Flooring (3–6 Weeks)
This is where the kitchen really starts to come together.
Cabinets
Installing cabinetry can take about 1 to 2 weeks, depending on complexity. Custom cabinetry may require more time due to the precision involved.
Countertops
Once cabinets are installed, countertops are measured and fabricated. This process can take 1–3 weeks before they’re ready to install.
Flooring
Flooring installation often takes 3–7 days, depending on the material. Tile generally takes longer than vinyl or laminate because of drying time.
Altogether, this stage can take 3 to 6 weeks.
Phase 5: Appliances, Fixtures, and Final Touches (1–2 Weeks)
We’re in the home stretch. At this point, we install appliances, sinks, lighting, and other fixtures. Painting and backsplash installation also happen during this stage.
This typically takes 1 to 2 weeks, and then your new kitchen is ready to enjoy.
Phase 6: Inspections and Walkthrough (1 Week)
Finally, we schedule any required inspections with the city or county. Once that’s complete, we do a thorough walkthrough with you to ensure every detail meets your expectations.
This usually adds about a week to the timeline.
Common Factors That Affect the Timeline
While we’ve outlined a typical schedule, it’s important to remember that real-world projects can vary. Here are some of the most common factors that impact timing:
- Scope of Work – A cosmetic refresh with new paint and fixtures may only take 3–4 weeks, while a full gut renovation can last 3–4 months.
- Custom vs. Stock Materials – Custom cabinets or specialty countertops take longer to order and install.
- Permits and Inspections – These can add weeks depending on local regulations and inspector availability.
- Change Orders – If you change your mind mid-project, it can extend the timeline significantly.
- Unexpected Issues – Older homes often have hidden problems like outdated wiring or plumbing that must be addressed.
How to Keep Your Remodel on Schedule
As contractors, we’ve learned that preparation and communication make all the difference. Here are a few tips:
- Finalize your design early. Making decisions in advance prevents delays during construction.
- Order materials ahead of time. Long lead times are common, especially for custom items.
- Trust your contractor. At Armored Painting, we keep our clients updated at every step so there are no surprises.
- Plan for flexibility. Even with the best preparation, small delays are normal. Build a little cushion into your timeline.
Typical Kitchen Remodel Timelines at a Glance
- Small remodel (cosmetic updates, painting, new hardware): 3–6 weeks
- Medium remodel (new cabinets, countertops, flooring): 6–10 weeks
- Full remodel (structural changes, plumbing/electrical updates): 10–16 weeks
Why Choose Armored Painting for Your Kitchen Remodel?
At Armored Painting, we don’t just focus on painting—we provide complete remodeling solutions designed to enhance the look and functionality of your home. Our team brings years of expertise, attention to detail, and a commitment to finishing on time and on budget.
When you choose us, you’re not just hiring contractors—you’re partnering with a team that treats your home like our own. From planning to final walkthrough, we’re here to make the remodeling process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Final Thoughts
So, how long does it take to remodel a kitchen? The answer depends on your goals, budget, and the complexity of the project. On average, you should expect anywhere from 6 to 16 weeks from start to finish.
While that may seem like a long time, remember that the end result is worth it—a beautiful, functional kitchen that adds value to your home and enhances your lifestyle.
Ready to Start Your Kitchen Remodel?
If you’re ready to transform your kitchen, the team at Armored Painting is here to help. We’ll guide you through every step of the process, from design to completion, keeping your project on track and your vision front and center.
Call us today at 956-502-0617 to schedule a consultation. Let’s create a kitchen you’ll love for years to come!
