Planning Your Dream Kitchen: A Complete Timeline Guide for Kennewick Homeowners

Embarking on a kitchen remodel is one of the most exciting home improvement projects you can undertake, but understanding the timeline is crucial for proper planning and realistic expectations. For Kennewick homeowners considering a kitchen transformation, knowing what to expect during each phase of construction can make the difference between a smooth renovation and a stressful experience.

The Complete Kitchen Construction Timeline

A full kitchen remodel takes between 6 and 12 weeks once construction starts. That’s after all the planning, designing, and permit-pulling. However, this timeline can vary significantly based on the scope of your project, material availability, and unforeseen complications that may arise during construction.

Phase 1: Planning and Design (2-8 weeks)

The pre-construction phase of a kitchen remodel can take 1-2 months or longer, depending on the scope of the project. This phase includes: Planning and design: Homeowners work with a designer or contractor to create a detailed plan for the kitchen layout, materials, and overall aesthetic. Obtaining permits: Depending on the local building codes, permits may be required for the kitchen remodel, which can add time to the overall timeline. Budgeting and financing: Homeowners need to finalize their budget and secure any necessary financing before the project can begin.

During this critical phase, you’ll work closely with your contractor to finalize every detail. Many kitchen materials require substantial lead times, making early ordering essential for staying on schedule. Create a procurement timeline that ensures everything arrives when needed during construction. Custom and semi-custom cabinets typically require 6-8 weeks for manufacturing.

Phase 2: Permits and Approvals (1-4 weeks)

For Kennewick homeowners, understanding local permit requirements is essential. You will need to apply for a residential building permit if you are constructing a new single-family residence, doing a remodel/addition or miscellaneous residential project. Review the application process below for step-by-step guidance. Depending on the project and the municipality, permits could take a couple of weeks or a couple of months, so plan accordingly.

Phase 3: Demolition and Site Preparation (3-5 days)

On the first day of the project, our remodelers will protect the site. This includes putting up plastic sheeting, carpet shield, ram boards, etc. to ensure that we keep our mess contained. We will tape off the air vents in the kitchen to keep dust from blowing through the whole house. Demolition is the first step in creating your new kitchen. This involves removing existing elements, including cabinets, countertops, appliances, and flooring. It’s a messy job, so protecting adjacent areas is crucial. Demolition can also reveal hidden problems like outdated plumbing or electrical wiring. Addressing these issues quickly is essential to keep your project on schedule.

Phase 4: Rough Construction (2-4 weeks)

Rough construction means demolishing the existing kitchen, building out structural features, and framing the room. If you are keeping the same room footprint and appliance placement, this step could be completed in one week or less. This phase includes:

Structural modifications (if needed)
Rough plumbing and electrical work
HVAC adjustments
Insulation installation
Drywall installation and finishing

With most projects, the rough-in inspection takes place two weeks after day one. Once we get the thumbs-up from the inspector, the next step is to begin hanging insulation. The kitchen will usually require more insulation than other projects, especially if we are remodeling other rooms on the first floor. Usually, insulation can be done in a day or two.

Phase 5: Finish Construction (4-6 weeks)

Finish construction is when all new products are installed in the kitchen. This is the final, and perhaps most satisfying, phase of the kitchen remodeling process. This phase follows a specific sequence:

Cabinet Installation: New cabinets can take 1-2 weeks to be measured, fabricated, and installed.
Countertop Installation: Only after cabinets are installed can measurements for countertops be taken. Fabrication, or making the countertop, can then take place. This can take up to one month depending on the material.
Flooring Installation: Depending on the type of flooring, this can take 1-2 weeks.
Backsplash and Paint: Tile or other backsplash materials can be installed in 1-2 weeks.
Final Details: The finishing touches of the kitchen include cabinet hardware, crown molding, paint touch-ups, and any other details.

What Affects Your Timeline?

Several factors can impact your kitchen construction timeline:

Factors that can extend the timeline include custom cabinet orders, permit delays, structural surprises, and material availability.
The NARI advises building in a 10-15% cushion into the total project duration to account for potential hiccups in materials delivery, contractor scheduling, permits, and inspection delays.
There are a lot of revisions, planning and scheduling that goes into a kitchen renovation, but the biggest determining factor for the speed of a renovation, by far, is the client’s decisiveness!

Local Considerations for Kennewick Homeowners

When planning your new kitchen construction kennewick project, it’s important to work with contractors who understand the local market. According to recent data, the average cost of a kitchen remodel in Kennewick ranges from $15,000 to $40,000, depending on the size of your kitchen and the scope of the project. Most kitchen remodels take between 4–8 weeks, depending on size and complexity. Costs usually range between $15,000 and $50,000, depending on materials and design.

Choosing the Right Contractor

Selecting an experienced local contractor is crucial for staying on schedule and within budget. At Nailed It Construction, we believe quality craftsmanship and honest service are the foundation of every great project. We proudly serve the entire Franklin & Benton County, WA, bringing years of experience, precision, and creativity to every build. Whether you’re upgrading your home, tackling a commercial project, or need expert repairs, we’ve got you covered.

Based in Kennewick, WA, we understand the unique needs of Tri-Cities properties, from navigating local building codes to choosing materials suited for Eastern Washington’s climate. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, we take pride in our reputation for high-quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and unwavering dedication to our clients. Our team of skilled professionals approach every project with a passion for excellence, ensuring that each build is completed on time and within budget with superior workmanship.

Preparing for Your Kitchen Remodel

To ensure your project stays on track:

Before demolition day, you’ll need to set up a temporary kitchen to cook meals during the remodel. Safety protocols also need to be made to contain waste. Carve out space for a temporary kitchen away from the construction zone if possible.
Make all material selections early to avoid delays
Plan for contingencies and unexpected issues
Maintain clear communication with your contractor throughout the process

Remodeling your kitchen takes time, but planning each phase carefully helps you stay on track. Most projects take 3-6 months from the first ideas to the final walkthrough, and rushing through the process often leads to bigger delays. The key is to give yourself enough time to plan properly, choose the right materials, and work with experienced pros. A well-done kitchen upgrade will last for years and feel well worth the wait.

Understanding the kitchen construction timeline helps Kennewick homeowners set realistic expectations and plan accordingly. With proper preparation and the right contractor, your dream kitchen can become a reality within a reasonable timeframe, adding value and enjoyment to your home for years to come.