What to Expect
During Construction
Once construction begins, your kitchen will transform one step at a time. This guide walks you through the typical stages of a kitchen remodel, explaining what happens during each phase, why the work is completed in a specific order, and what you can expect as your project progresses.
Every Remodel Is Unique
Every remodel is unique, but most projects follow a similar construction process. While the timeline can vary depending on the scope of work, existing conditions, material lead times, and inspections, most of our kitchen remodels are completed in approximately 5–7 weeks. The timeline below provides a general overview of what you can expect once construction begins.
Demolition
Estimated Time - 1 to 2 Days
Demolition is often one of the most exciting phases of the remodel, but it usually isn't as dramatic as what you see on television. Rather than tearing cabinets out with sledgehammers, we carefully remove existing cabinetry, countertops, and other materials whenever possible.
If your cabinets are in good condition and suitable for reuse, we typically donate them to Habitat for Humanity so they can be given a second life. Once demolition is complete, we'll have a clean slate to begin building your new kitchen.
Floor Demolition
Estimated Time - 1 Day
If your project includes new flooring, Bethlehem Gallery of Floors will typically handle the flooring demolition. Depending on the type of flooring you've selected and the installation requirements, they may install the new flooring at this stage or return after the base cabinets have been installed.
The timing of your flooring installation is determined by the flooring material and the installation method, ensuring the best possible finished result.
Electrical Rough - In
Estimated Time - 1 to 2 Day
During the electrical rough-in, our licensed electrician will install the wiring and electrical components hidden behind the walls before drywall is installed. This is when outlets, switches, recessed lighting, under-cabinet lighting, appliance circuits, and other electrical locations are laid out according to the approved design.
The electrician will return later in the project to install the finished fixtures, outlets, switches, and cover plates once the cabinetry, countertops, and walls are complete.
Electrical Rough - In Inspection
Estimated Time - 1 to 2 Day
If your project requires permits, your local municipality will typically perform one or more inspections throughout the remodeling process. After the electrical, plumbing, and other rough-in work is complete, an inspector will verify that everything meets current building codes before construction can continue.
Inspection schedules are determined by your municipality, so timing is unfortunately outside of our control. While inspections usually go smoothly, there may be occasions when scheduling availability or approval timelines add a day or two to the project. We appreciate your patience, as this is an important step in ensuring your remodel is completed safely and to code.
Prepwork
Estimated Time - 1 to 5 Days
Once any required inspections have been completed, we can begin preparing your kitchen for the next phase of construction. Depending on the scope of your project, this stage may include framing adjustments, drywall repairs or installation, floor preparation, and other behind-the-scenes work needed before cabinetry can be installed.
This phase can take anywhere from a day or two to about a week, depending on the complexity of your remodel. While it may not always look like significant progress is being made, these steps are essential to creating a solid foundation for everything that follows.
An Important Check In
The first few weeks of a kitchen remodel are often the most challenging. Your routine has changed, there are several trades coming and going, and your home may not feel quite like home for a little while. If you're feeling overwhelmed, know that it's completely normal.
During these early stages, much of the work is focused on preparation, electrical and plumbing rough-ins, inspections, drywall, and other behind-the-scenes tasks. While it may not always look like dramatic progress is being made, every step is building the foundation for the stages that follow.
Trust the process. Before long, you'll begin to see your new kitchen take shape, and all of the preparation will start to make sense.
Cabinetry Installation
Estimated Time - 3 to 5 Days
With the prep work complete, it's finally time to see your new kitchen begin to take shape. We typically install the base cabinets first for two important reasons. First, they allow the countertop company to take their final template measurements so your countertops can be fabricated. Second, if your flooring is being installed after the cabinets, the base cabinets establish the finished layout for the flooring installers.
Once the base cabinets are in place, we'll continue installing the remaining cabinetry, making adjustments as needed to ensure everything is level, aligned, and ready for the next phase of your remodel.
Countertop Template
Estimated Time - 1 to 2 Hours
Once the base cabinets have been installed and secured, the countertop company will visit your home to create a final template. During this appointment, they will carefully measure your cabinetry and create a template that serves as the exact pattern for fabricating your countertops.
This template captures every detail, including countertop dimensions, sink and cooktop cutouts, overhangs, and any special design features. Because every countertop is custom fabricated, templating cannot take place until the base cabinets have been fully installed and finalized.
Once the template is complete, your countertops will move into fabrication. Production times are about 7 to 10 days.
Midway Project Update
By this point, you've reached roughly the halfway point of your remodel. Once your countertops have been templated, we'll send you a project update outlining the remaining schedule so you know what to expect over the coming weeks.
This is also the stage where you may notice a brief lull in activity. While your countertops are being custom fabricated off-site, there may be fewer people working in your home. Rest assured, this is a normal part of the remodeling process. Whenever possible, we try to schedule flooring installation or other work during this time so your project continues moving forward while we wait for your countertops to be completed.
Floor Installation
Estimated Time - 1 to 2 Days
If your flooring is being installed after the base cabinets, this is when Bethlehem Gallery of Floors will return to complete the installation. Installing the flooring at this stage allows it to be fitted precisely around the cabinetry for a clean, finished appearance.
The length of installation depends on the flooring material, the size of the space, and the complexity of the layout. Once the flooring is complete, your kitchen is one step closer to looking like a finished space.
Countertop Installation
Estimated Time - 1 Day
Once your countertops have been fabricated, the countertop company will return to install them. Since each countertop is custom-made from the template taken in your home, this is often one of the most exciting milestones of the remodel.
During installation, the countertops are carefully set in place, leveled, and secured. If your project includes an undermount sink, it is typically installed at this time as well. With the countertops in place, your kitchen really begins to come together and is ready for the next phase of construction, including the backsplash.
Sink & Faucet Hook Up
Estimated Time - 1/2 Day
Once the countertops have been installed, it's time to install your sink, faucet, garbage disposal, and any other plumbing fixtures included in your project. Water lines and drains are connected, and everything is carefully tested to ensure it is functioning properly and free of leaks.
This is one of the most exciting milestones of the remodel, as your kitchen becomes fully functional again and ready for everyday use.
Final Electrical
Estimated Time - 1 Day
Once the countertops, backsplash, and other finishing work have been completed, our licensed electrician will return to complete the final electrical installation. This is when outlets, switches, light fixtures, under-cabinet lighting, and other electrical components are installed and connected.
During this visit, the electrician will ensure everything is functioning properly and complete the finishing touches that bring your new kitchen to life. With the electrical work complete, your kitchen is one step closer to being ready for everyday use.
Tile Backsplash Installation
Estimated Time - 2 to 4 Days
Once your countertops have been installed, it's time for the backsplash. Your tile will be installed according to the approved layout, and once it has had time to set, it will be grouted.
Depending on the size and complexity of your backsplash, this stage typically takes 2–3 days to complete. Once finished, your kitchen will really begin to look complete.
Hardware Installation
Estimated Time - 1 Day
With the major components of your kitchen in place, it's time to install the finishing touches. Cabinet knobs and pulls are carefully installed according to the approved hardware layout, ensuring each piece is aligned and securely fastened.
While it may seem like a small detail, hardware adds both function and personality to your kitchen, making it one of the final steps before your remodel is complete.
Appliance Delivery
Estimated Time - 1 Day
As your remodel nears completion, we'll coordinate the delivery of your appliances. Appliances are typically delivered toward the end of the project because they are large, cumbersome to work around, and could be damaged if installed too early.
Scheduling delivery at this stage allows the installation to go more smoothly and helps protect your new appliances while the remaining finishing work is completed. Once delivered, they'll be installed and connected as the final pieces of your new kitchen come together.
Finishing Touches
Estimated Time - 1 to 3 Days
As your remodel nears completion, we'll take care of the final details that bring everything together. This may include touch-up paint, caulking, adjusting cabinet doors and drawers, final cleaning, and any remaining items that need attention.
We'll also complete any punch list items, the small adjustments or finishing details identified during the final stages of the project—to ensure everything meets our standards before we consider your remodel complete.
Congratulations! Your Kitchen is Complete!
After weeks of planning, design, and construction, it's finally time to enjoy your new kitchen. We hope it's a space that serves your family well for many years to come.
Before you settle in, take a few moments to review our care and maintenance guide. Proper care will help keep your cabinetry, countertops, tile, and other finishes looking their best and ensure you get the most out of your investment.