How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take?

Short answer: A full kitchen remodel takes 3–5 weeks on-site, and about 5–8 weeks total from the first in-home consult to the final walk-through. Cabinet ordering is usually the longest wait: KCD and DL Cabinetry typically ship in 2–4 weeks, and GHI in 4–6 weeks. A cabinet-only swap that keeps the same layout takes just 3–5 days on-site; high-end kitchens with structural changes run 6–10 weeks.

What Is the Step-by-Step Kitchen Remodel Timeline?

1. Day 1 — Free in-home consult. We measure, photograph, and listen. About an hour in your kitchen.
2. Week 1 — 3D design and itemized quote. You get a photo-real 3D rendering and a written quote with cabinets, counters, and labor split out.
3. Weeks 2–5 — Cabinets ordered factory-direct. We lock your install date as cabinets arrive.
4. Weeks 5–8 — Install and walk-through. Our own crew handles demo, install, trim, and the punch list.

How Long Is Each Type of Kitchen Project On-Site?

• Cabinet-only swap (same footprint): 3–5 days
• Mid-range remodel (cabinets, counters, backsplash, appliances): 3–5 weeks
• High-end custom (wall removals, island additions): 6–10 weeks

See what each includes on our kitchen remodeling page.

What Slows a Kitchen Remodel Down?

• Changing selections after ordering. A new door style or color resets the cabinet clock.
• Choosing a longer-lead line. GHI takes 4–6 weeks versus 2–4 for KCD and DL — worth it for some kitchens, but plan for it.
• Surprises behind the walls. Older homes can hide damaged subfloor or outdated wiring.
• Permits and inspections. Work involving plumbing or electrical needs inspections before walls close.
• Countertops. Stone counters are templated after cabinets are installed, then fabricated — so there's a short gap with no counters.

How Do You Keep a Kitchen Remodel on Schedule?

• Make every decision before cabinets are ordered — not after demo.
• Pick countertops and backsplash early so templating can happen right after install.
• Set up a temporary kitchen (microwave, coffee maker, mini-fridge) for the on-site weeks.
• Use the National Kitchen & Bath Association's planning resources to think through layout before your consult.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my kitchen during the remodel?

Not during a full remodel's 3–5 on-site weeks — plan on a temporary setup elsewhere in the house. A cabinet-only swap is much shorter at 3–5 days.

Why does cabinet ordering take weeks?

Cabinets are ordered to your design from the factory. KCD and DL typically ship in 2–4 weeks; GHI in 4–6. We schedule your install around the delivery date so your kitchen isn't torn out while you wait.

Who manages the schedule?

We do. Our in-house crew handles demo through punch list, so there are no handoffs between subcontractors.

Charleston Kitchen and Bath Services has remodeled kitchens in Summerville and across the Tri-County since 1990. See more in our project gallery.

Last updated: October 2026