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    Renovation GuidesAJJanuary 5, 20265 min read

    Kitchen Renovation Timeline: What to Expect

    Kitchen Renovation Timeline: What to Expect
    Quick Answer

    A kitchen renovation in Vancouver takes 4–12 weeks depending on scope. Cosmetic updates: 1–2 weeks. Mid-range renovation: 4–6 weeks. Full gut renovation: 8–12 weeks. Add 2–4 weeks for permit approvals.

    One of the first questions homeowners ask about a kitchen renovation is "how long will it take?" The honest answer depends on the scope, but here are realistic timelines based on our experience in Metro Vancouver.

    Kitchen Renovation Timeline by Scope

    Cosmetic Refresh (1-2 Weeks)

  1. Painting cabinets
  2. New hardware
  3. Updated light fixtures
  4. New backsplash
  5. Countertop replacement (prefab)
  6. Mid-Range Renovation (4-6 Weeks)

  7. New cabinets (stock or semi-custom)
  8. New countertops
  9. Updated plumbing fixtures
  10. New flooring
  11. New backsplash
  12. Lighting updates
  13. Fresh paint
  14. Full Gut Renovation (8-12 Weeks)

  15. Complete demolition
  16. Layout changes
  17. Plumbing relocation
  18. Electrical upgrades
  19. Custom cabinetry
  20. Premium countertops
  21. New flooring throughout
  22. All new appliances
  23. The Hidden Time Costs

    Pre-Construction (2-8 Weeks)

  24. Design and planning: 1-2 weeks
  25. Material selection and ordering: 1-4 weeks (custom cabinets can take 6-8 weeks)
  26. Permit applications (if needed): 2-4 weeks in Vancouver
  27. During Construction

  28. Demolition: 1-3 days
  29. Rough plumbing and electrical: 3-5 days
  30. Drywall and patching: 2-3 days
  31. Cabinet installation: 2-4 days
  32. Countertop templating and installation: 1-2 weeks (after cabinets)
  33. Backsplash: 1-2 days
  34. Flooring: 1-3 days
  35. Final plumbing and electrical (fixtures): 1-2 days
  36. Painting: 1-2 days
  37. Punch list and cleanup: 1 day
  38. How to Keep Your Renovation on Schedule

  39. Make all decisions before demolition — Changing your mind mid-project is the number one cause of delays.
  40. Order materials early — Custom cabinets, special-order tile, and unique fixtures have long lead times.
  41. Have a contingency plan for meals — You'll be without a kitchen for weeks.
  42. Communicate clearly with your contractor — Daily check-ins keep projects on track.
  43. Budget a 15-20% time buffer — Unexpected issues (hidden water damage, electrical surprises) always arise.
  44. SturdyBee Kitchen Renovations

    SturdyBee Property Solutions manages kitchen renovations from planning through completion across Metro Vancouver. Our transparent communication means you'll always know where your project stands.

    Call (604) 366-4087 for a free consultation and timeline estimate.

    People Also Ask

    What takes the longest in a kitchen renovation?

    Custom cabinetry (4–8 weeks lead time), countertop fabrication (2–3 weeks), and permit processing (2–4 weeks). Plan these well ahead to avoid delays.

    Can I use my kitchen during a renovation?

    During a full renovation, no — your kitchen will be unusable for 4–8 weeks. Set up a temporary kitchen with a microwave, toaster oven, and cooler in another room.

    How can I speed up my kitchen renovation?

    Order materials and appliances early, finalize all design decisions before demo begins, and hire an experienced team that manages the full project in-house.

    Ready to get started?

    SturdyBee Property Solutions serves 18 cities across Metro Vancouver & Fraser Valley. WCB covered, fully insured, Google Guaranteed.