A full kitchen remodel is one of the most disruptive — and rewarding — projects you can undertake. Done well, it transforms how the space functions and significantly increases resale value. Done without a clear plan, it drags on for months and leaves your family eating takeout far longer than anyone expected.
Here's an honest, week-by-week look at what a full kitchen remodel actually involves.
Weeks 1–2: Demo and rough-in
Once cabinets, appliances, and finishes are removed, the rough work begins — plumbing relocation, electrical updates, and any structural changes. This phase must be completed and inspected before anything goes back in.
Weeks 3–4: Inspections and drywall
Rough-in inspections from the building department happen here. Scheduling these in advance is critical — delays cascade through the entire project. Once inspections pass, drywall goes up.
Weeks 5–7: Cabinetry and countertop templating
Cabinet installation typically takes two to four days. Once cabinets are in, the countertop fabricator templates from the actual installed cabinets. Stone and quartz then go into fabrication, which takes one to three weeks depending on material and shop workload.
Weeks 8–9: Countertops and tile
Countertops are set, then backsplash tile begins. Tile work is detail-intensive — budget time for a skilled installer, not a fast one.
Weeks 10–11: Appliances and finish work
Appliances go in once countertops are set. Finish plumbing — faucets, disposal, dishwasher — and finish electrical — outlets, lighting, hood — are completed in this window.
Weeks 12–14: Punch list and final inspection
The punch list covers every small item that isn't right: a cabinet door misalignment, a paint touch-up, a tile chip. Budget time for this. Final inspection closes out the permit.
Projects that run longer almost always trace back to one of three causes: delayed material selections, permit scheduling gaps, or a contractor managing too many jobs at once.
Ready to plan your kitchen remodel? Contact Joe Shadel General Contracting, LLC for a free estimate.