What are the steps in a kitchen remodel?
How long does a kitchen renovation take?
Though of course it depends on the size and type of kitchen remodel, an average kitchen takes between 4 to 12 weeks to remodel, not including the planning and design phase. DIY projects can take longer, because the homeowner is typically learning the process during the remodel. Expect delays. Plan for the worst and hope for the best!
In what order do you remodel a kitchen?
Phase 1- Planning
Make a Style and Idea Wish List
First things first. Before you even call a contractor or draft up a plan, you need to know exactly what you want. Whether it’s cabinets that reach the ceiling, a big kitchen island, or a sink facing the outside window, having your wants and needs written down is the first step in a kitchen remodel. Houzz, Pinterest, and google images are great ways to share your ideas with your designer!
Figure Out Your Budget
How much are you able to comfortably set aside or obtain a loan for to cover all the costs of your renovation? Find out what the average kitchen remodeling job costs in your area,(link) and tack on another 10% on top of that for good measure. You just never know what you’ll come across when you’re ripping out flooring and drywall, which can add more work – and money – to the job.
Hire a Contractor
This stage will take some time. After all, you want to make sure you hire the best person for the job who is experienced, honest, and understands your vision. Get estimates from at least three different kitchen specialists, and ask them a few other questions, including whether they are insured and bonded, what their experience is like, and how they expect to get paid.
Once you’ve nailed down one contractor, be sure to get a detailed estimate in writing that lists all the work to be done, how much the job is going to cost, a scheduled timeline of phases, and how change orders are dealt with. The more written details are incorporated into the estimate, the better.
Phase 2 - Construction
Permits/Dumpster
Be sure you or your contractor has contacted the city to check which permits are required and that they are posted before demolition begins. City inspectors are known for stopping by when they see dumpsters in front of homes 😊
Demolition Starts
If everything in your kitchen needs to be removed in order to make room for your new kitchen, be prepared for some demolition. There will be a lot of elbow grease, dust, and noise! This is the point where appliances are removed, old cabinetry is demolished, and even flooring or drywall is ripped out.
Once this is done, the contractor will walk through the space and evaluate what should take place next. Detailed decisions about whether or not any corrections must be made prior to carrying on with the job will be made. However, if any issues are discovered – such as faulty wiring or termite damage – these things need to be addressed first before carrying on with the new kitchen project.
Determine Location of Light Fixtures, Electrical Outlets, and Appliances
You’re likely going to be replacing all the light fixtures in the kitchen. While you’re at it, you might have to go so far as to replace the lighting system altogether. In the meantime, you might consider adding all new appliances to give yourself a completely new kitchen from top to bottom.
As such, you may need to update your electrical wiring and panel to make sure it can support the new lighting and appliances. At this point, all the electrical outlets and appliance/light power feeds will need to be mapped out, marked, and placed.
Mechanical Rough-in
Installing all the mechanicals is typically the next step in the process, and shouldn’t take any more than a week to complete. This is the phase of the kitchen remodeling job in which all the HVAC, plumbing, and electricals are roughed in. If you’re including any cable and speaker wiring, this will also be installed during this phase.
Inspections
Insulation, Drywall, and non floating Floors (Tile-or at least the backer and hardwood).
After the set-up and installations of the mechanical systems are done and passed inspection, insulation is added between the studs on the walls, drywall is laid overtop and primed, and the flooring is installed. This needs to be done before the new cabinets are put up.
Install Cabinets and Counters
This is the part when you’ll be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. The cabinets you’ve chosen are finally installed and fitted properly. During this phase, you’ll come to really appreciate all the time and effort that was taken to ensure that all the previous steps were done with great care and precision. The last thing you want is to notice that the floor is sloping or the outlets are in the wrong places. Don’t forget to have your cabinet hardware on site for the cabinet installer on the day of install.
Once the cabinets are in, the countertops will need to be templated, which means carefully taking measurements that are then given to the countertop fabricator. You’ll probably have to wait about a week or two before the counter is ready to be fitted. That’s because a sufficient amount of time is necessary to measure the material precisely, have the shop drawings approved, and send it to the crew to prepare the slab preparation. The countertops will then be delivered and installed on your cabinets when they’re finally ready.
Final Plumbing and electrical
Plumbing fixtures are installed, the pretty stuff such as sinks, faucets, and decorative lighting 😊
Final Finishing
Once your cabinets and counters are in, your new kitchen is ready to be final or touch up coated in the color of choice, and all trim, backsplashes, and accessories can be installed.
The Bottom Line
Even if you’re not doing this major kitchen remodeling job on your own, it’s very helpful to know what steps need to be taken, and in what order. Make sure you work with a reputable contractor, get your budget in order, and take your time with the job. The average kitchen remodeling job can take anywhere between four to eight weeks to complete – don’t rush the process.
