One of the most common questions we hear from homeowners planning a kitchen remodel is: how long will this take? The answer depends on the scope of your project, but a realistic understanding of the timeline will help you plan for the disruption and look forward to the finished result. In this article, we walk through a typical kitchen remodel timeline for the Chicago area, week by week.
The Short Answer
A typical mid-range kitchen remodel in the Chicago area takes 8 to 12 weeks from demolition to completion. A minor cosmetic update (cabinet refacing, new countertops, new hardware) can be completed in 3 to 5 weeks. A major renovation involving structural changes, custom cabinetry, and high-end finishes can take 14 to 20 weeks or more.
These timelines assume that design decisions and material selections have been finalized before construction begins. The pre-construction planning phase -- design, material selection, ordering, and permitting -- typically adds 4 to 8 weeks before the first hammer swings.
Pre-Construction Phase (4-8 Weeks Before Demo)
Weeks 1-2: Design and Planning
The project begins with an in-home consultation where we measure the space, discuss your goals and budget, and review design options. This is followed by one or more design meetings where we present layout options, material samples, and 3D renderings. During this phase, you will select cabinetry, countertops, backsplash, flooring, fixtures, hardware, and appliances.
Making timely decisions during this phase is the single most important factor in keeping your project on schedule. Delays in material selection are the number-one cause of project timeline extensions.
Weeks 3-4: Ordering and Permitting
Once selections are finalized, we place orders for cabinets, countertops, fixtures, and appliances. Semi-custom cabinets typically require 4-6 weeks for manufacturing. Custom cabinets may require 8-12 weeks. Countertops are templated after cabinets are installed, so they are ordered later in the process.
Simultaneously, we prepare and submit permit applications. In Chicago, kitchen remodel permits typically take 2-4 weeks for approval. Suburban municipalities vary -- some issue permits within a week, others take 3-4 weeks. We handle all permitting on your behalf.
Construction Phase (8-12 Weeks)
Week 1: Demolition and Preparation
The first week is demolition. We remove existing cabinets, countertops, flooring, backsplash, and fixtures. We protect adjoining rooms with dust barriers and floor protection. If structural changes are planned (wall removal, opening enlargement), the structural work begins during demolition. This is also when we discover any hidden issues -- old plumbing, outdated wiring, water damage, or asbestos -- that need to be addressed before proceeding.
Weeks 2-3: Rough-In (Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC)
With the space opened up, our plumbing and electrical contractors install or relocate water supply lines, drain lines, gas lines, electrical circuits, and outlets according to the new kitchen plan. This phase also includes any HVAC modifications. Once rough-in is complete, the work is inspected by the building department before we can close up the walls.
Week 4: Drywall and Painting
New drywall is hung, taped, mudded, and sanded. Once the walls are smooth and primed, paint goes on the walls and ceiling. Getting painting done before cabinets arrive protects the new cabinetry and ensures clean, crisp results.
Weeks 5-7: Cabinet Installation
This is when the kitchen starts to take shape. Our installers carefully level, shim, and secure every cabinet, ensuring perfect alignment and plumb. Fillers, trim pieces, crown molding, and hardware are installed. This phase typically takes 3-5 days for installation, followed by adjustments and fine-tuning.
Week 8: Countertop Templating and Installation
After cabinets are installed, the countertop fabricator visits to create precise templates (measurements) for the stone or quartz surfaces. Fabrication takes 7-10 business days, after which the countertops are installed -- typically in a single day. Sinks and cooktops are cut-in and plumbing connections are made immediately after.
Weeks 9-10: Backsplash, Flooring, and Trim
Tile backsplash is installed and grouted. Flooring is laid (if not done earlier in the process -- some contractors prefer to install flooring before cabinets, others after). Base trim, shoe molding, and any remaining carpentry details are completed. Undercabinet lighting and decorative fixtures are installed.
Weeks 11-12: Fixtures, Appliances, and Punch List
Faucets, garbage disposals, and light fixtures are installed. Appliances are delivered and connected -- refrigerator, range, dishwasher, microwave, vent hood. Everything is tested. The project manager conducts a detailed punch-list walkthrough, noting any items that need adjustment, touch-up paint, or correction. Punch-list items are typically completed within 3-5 business days.
Factors That Can Extend the Timeline
- Custom cabinetry: Adds 4-6 weeks to the pre-construction phase compared to semi-custom.
- Structural changes: Removing load-bearing walls requires engineering, permits, and steel beam installation, adding 1-2 weeks.
- Hidden conditions: Water damage, mold, asbestos, or knob-and-tube wiring discovered during demolition requires remediation before work can proceed.
- Material delays: Global supply chain disruptions can delay specific materials. We monitor lead times closely and recommend alternatives when delays arise.
- Permit delays: Some municipalities have longer review periods than others. We plan for this in our scheduling.
- Homeowner change orders: Changing selections or adding scope mid-project is the most common cause of timeline extensions. We strongly encourage finalizing all decisions before construction begins.
How to Prepare for Your Kitchen Remodel
Living without a kitchen for 8-12 weeks requires planning. Here are our top tips:
- Set up a temporary kitchen: A folding table, microwave, electric kettle, toaster oven, and a mini-fridge can handle most basic meal prep. Set this up in a dining room or spare bedroom near a bathroom sink.
- Plan for dining out: Budget for increased restaurant and takeout spending during the project.
- Protect your home: We install dust barriers and floor protection, but covering furniture in adjacent rooms and removing valuables from nearby shelves is wise.
- Communicate with your contractor: Weekly check-ins (we provide these automatically) keep you informed and allow small decisions to be made quickly.
Get Your Kitchen Remodel Timeline
Every kitchen remodel is unique, and the best way to understand your specific timeline is to schedule a consultation. We will assess your space, discuss your goals, and provide a realistic project schedule along with a detailed cost estimate.
