Kitchen Remodel Timeline: What to Expect in Arizona (Week by Week)

How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Actually Take?

The most common timeline question we get: "How long will I be without a kitchen?"

The honest answer depends on project scope, permit timing, and how quickly decisions get made. Here is a realistic week-by-week breakdown for a mid-size Phoenix metro kitchen remodel.

Phase 1: Design (Weeks 1 to 4)

Before a single cabinet is touched, we design the project.

Week 1: In-Home Walkthrough and Assessment

We visit your home with 3D scanning technology, document existing conditions, and have a detailed conversation about your goals, budget, and priorities. You receive a rough budget range by the end of this meeting.

Week 2 to 3: 3D Design and Modeling

Our team builds a full architectural model of your kitchen. Every cabinet run, every appliance location, every lighting position is modeled before we commit to anything.

Week 4: Selections Appointment and Proposal

You visit our design studio to choose cabinetry finish, countertop material, tile, fixtures, and appliances. We present the completed 3D walkthrough. You approve. We build the proposal.

Phase 2: Pre-Construction (Weeks 5 to 8)

Week 5: Contract and Permit Application

We submit permit applications within 24 hours of contract signing. Maricopa County residential permits typically take 2 to 4 weeks. We order long-lead materials immediately so they arrive before we need them.

Week 6 to 8: Material Procurement and Scheduling

Cabinets, countertops, and specialty items are ordered. Lead times vary: stock cabinets are 2 to 3 weeks, semi-custom are 4 to 6 weeks, custom are 6 to 10 weeks. We sequence the schedule around your material delivery dates.

Phase 3: Construction (Weeks 9 to 16)**

This is the phase most homeowners picture when they think "remodel."

Week 9: Demo

Existing cabinets, countertops, appliances, and flooring are removed. Plumbing and electrical rough-in begins. Any structural work (wall removal, beam installation) happens now.

Week 10 to 11: Rough-In Inspections and Drywall

Rough plumbing and electrical are inspected and approved. Drywall is patched or replaced. This is also when in-floor heating, if specified, goes in.

Week 12 to 13: Cabinet Installation

Cabinets are set and leveled. This is usually the most visible progress week for homeowners. The kitchen starts looking like a kitchen again.

Week 14: Countertops Templated and Installed

After cabinets are set, countertops are templated. Stone countertops typically have a 7 to 14 day fabrication window after templating. Installation takes 1 to 2 days.

Week 15: Tile, Fixtures, and Appliances

Backsplash tile is installed. Plumbing fixtures are set. Appliances are delivered and installed. Lighting is completed.

Week 16: Punch List and Final Walkthrough

We do our own punch list before you do yours. We find our issues and fix them before the walkthrough. At the final walkthrough, we address every item on your list before collecting final payment.

What Causes Delays

The honest list:

1. Permit delays. Maricopa County can run 4 to 6 weeks during busy periods. We factor this in but cannot control it.

2. Material back-orders. Specialty tile, custom cabinetry, and imported stone can have extended lead times. We order early for this reason.

3. Unforeseen conditions. Hidden water damage, outdated wiring that needs upgrading, or a wall that turns out to be structural can add time. We document everything during demo and communicate immediately.

4. Change orders. Scope changes mid-project extend the timeline. We minimize these by designing thoroughly upfront.

Every Friday: Your Update

Regardless of where we are in the build, you receive a photo update email from our owner every Friday covering what happened that week, what is scheduled next week, and any decisions needed from you.

You will never wonder what is happening on your project.

Ready to map out the timeline for your kitchen? Schedule a free walkthrough with our owner.