One of the first questions we hear is “how long will my kitchen be out of commission?” Here’s a realistic, week-by-week look at how a kitchen remodel actually unfolds, so there are no surprises.
The short answer
Most full kitchen remodels take 8 to 14 weeks from the day construction starts. But the full journey, including design and ordering, often spans 4 to 6 months. The good news: much of that early time doesn’t disrupt your home at all.
Phase 1: Design and planning (2–6 weeks)
This is where the project is won or lost. During kitchen design, we finalize the layout, pick materials, and lock in every detail on paper. Thorough planning here is the single best way to avoid delays and change orders later. If you’re just getting started, our guide on how to plan a kitchen remodel is a good companion.
Phase 2: Ordering and lead times (3–8 weeks)
Once selections are final, we order. This is the quiet stretch that catches people off guard, because cabinets drive it.
| Item | Typical lead time |
|---|---|
| Custom cabinets | 4–8 weeks |
| Stock cabinets | 1–3 weeks |
| Countertops (templated after install) | 1–2 weeks |
| Specialty appliances | 2–6 weeks |
We start construction once key materials are in hand, so nobody is left with a torn-up kitchen waiting on a delivery. Curious how cabinet choice affects this? See custom vs. stock cabinets.
Phase 3: Permits (as needed)
If your project touches plumbing, electrical, or structural work, permits may be required. Timing varies by town across Vermont. Our overview of kitchen remodel permits in Vermont explains when you’ll need one.
Phase 4: Construction, week by week
Here’s a typical rhythm once the crew arrives:
Week 1: Demolition and rough-in
Old cabinets, counters, and flooring come out. Plumbing and electrical get moved or updated behind the walls. Older homes in places like Burlington sometimes reveal surprises here, which is why we build in a little buffer.
Weeks 2–3: Structure, walls, and prep
Any wall changes, new windows, drywall, and priming happen. Floors may go in depending on sequence, our backsplash and flooring work is timed to protect finishes.
Weeks 4–5: Cabinet installation
The room starts to look like a kitchen. Custom cabinets and any island go in and get leveled.
Week 6: Countertop templating and install
Counters are templated on the installed cabinets, then fabricated and set about a week later. Your countertops transform the space.
Weeks 7–8: Backsplash, plumbing, and electrical finish
Tile, sink, faucet, lighting, and appliances are connected. Trim and paint touch-ups follow.
Final days: Punch list and reveal
We walk through together, fix any small items, and hand back your finished kitchen.
How to keep things on schedule
- Make selections early and stick with them. Late changes ripple through the whole timeline.
- Set up a temporary kitchen. A microwave, kettle, and folding table go a long way.
- Expect small surprises. A week of buffer keeps stress low.
For how timeline connects to budget, see our kitchen remodel cost in Vermont guide.
Ready to map out your own timeline? Contact us to book a free design consultation.