Kitchen Remodeling Process: What to Expect
By Jeff Wiegmann, Co-Founder, Timber Design + Build
Kitchen Remodeling Process: What to Expect from Design to Final Walkthrough
A full kitchen remodel follows five distinct phases — design and selection, permitting, demolition and rough-in, cabinetry and finish installation, and final details. Understanding each phase helps you make decisions at the right time and set realistic expectations for the timeline.
Phase 1: Design and Selection (3–6 Weeks)
The design phase determines the kitchen layout, cabinetry configuration, material selections, and appliance specifications. At Timber, our design coordinator Amanda Barton produces a detailed kitchen design using Chief Architect software — including 3D renderings of the finished kitchen.
During this phase, you finalize: layout and flow, cabinetry style and configuration, countertop material, backsplash tile, flooring, sink and faucet, appliances, lighting, and hardware.
Timber Design + Build kitchen remodeling
Phase 2: Permitting (1–3 Weeks)
Kitchen remodels that involve structural modifications (wall removal), electrical panel upgrades, or plumbing relocation require building permits. Timber manages all permit applications and municipal coordination.
Phase 3: Demolition and Rough-In (2–4 Weeks)
Existing cabinets, countertops, flooring, and sometimes walls are removed. Plumbing and electrical rough-in work is completed to support the new layout. If structural modifications are involved — bearing wall removal, beam installation — this work happens during this phase.
During demolition, conditions behind existing walls are confirmed. Occasionally, unexpected conditions — deteriorated framing, outdated electrical, plumbing modifications needed — require adjustments to the scope.
If you are living in your home during the remodel, dust containment barriers are installed before demolition begins.
Phase 4: Cabinetry and Finish Installation (3–6 Weeks)
Custom cabinets from Timber's Millwork Division are installed. Countertops are templated after cabinet installation and fabricated to exact measurements. Backsplash tile, flooring, and trim are installed.This is the phase where the kitchen transforms from a construction zone to a finished room. The sequence matters: cabinets first, then countertops (templated to the installed cabinets), then backsplash, then appliances, then final trim and hardware.
Phase 5: Final Details and Walkthrough (1–2 Weeks)
Appliance installation and connection, final electrical trim (outlets, switches, lighting), touch-up paint, hardware installation, and final cleaning. We walk through the completed kitchen with you and address any punch list items.
Total Timeline: 8–16 Weeks
From approved design to final walkthrough, most kitchen remodels take 8–16 weeks of construction. Simpler projects (no structural changes, standard cabinetry) finish closer to 8 weeks. Complex projects (structural wall removal, custom cabinetry, island addition) run 12–16 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common cause of kitchen remodel delays?Material lead times — particularly for specialty tile, custom countertop slabs, and appliances that are backordered. Making all selections during the design phase prevents most delays.
When should I select my appliances?During the design phase — before cabinetry dimensions are finalized. Appliance dimensions determine cabinet openings, counter depths, and electrical/gas rough-in locations.
How much does a kitchen remodel cost?$75,000 to $200,000+ depending on scope. See our full cost breakdown.
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By Jeff Wiegmann, Licensed General Contractor — Timber Design + Build. Design coordination by Amanda Barton.