How Long Does a Kitchen Renovation Take in Connecticut?

If you’re thinking about renovating your kitchen, timing is usually one of the first things you want to understand. Not because you’re rushing, but because a kitchen isn’t just another room. It’s where mornings start, meals happen, and the day winds down. When that space is out of commission, it affects real life.

When we walk into homes across Connecticut and this question comes up, the answer is almost always the same. It depends. And that’s not a dodge. It’s just the honest reality of how kitchen renovations work.

So let’s talk through what timelines usually look like, what actually affects them, and how to plan in a way that doesn’t leave you frustrated halfway through the project.

Why do kitchen renovation timelines vary so much?

Most full kitchen renovations in Connecticut take about six to twelve weeks once construction starts. That range covers the majority of projects. Some come in closer to six weeks. Others stretch past twelve. The difference usually isn’t how hard people are working. It’s what’s changing and what the house gives us once work begins.

Layout changes are one of the biggest drivers. Moving walls, relocating plumbing, or adjusting electrical systems adds coordination and inspections. Cabinet choice matters too. Stock cabinets often move faster than semi custom or fully custom options. Flooring type, tile work, and appliance lead times also play a role.

Permits and inspections matter as well. Different Connecticut towns review and schedule inspections at different speeds. That’s part of doing the work correctly, even if it adds time.

What happens before construction even starts?

Before any demolition happens, most kitchen projects spend four to eight weeks in planning and selections. This is where layouts get finalized, materials are chosen, and timelines are set.

This part often feels slow, but it’s doing important work. Rushing selections or skipping coordination here is one of the most common reasons timelines stretch later. Thinking of this as a true kitchen renovation project instead of a quick update helps set better expectations from the start.

What does the construction phase usually look like?

Once construction begins, demolition and prep typically take one to two weeks. That includes removing old cabinets, flooring, and finishes, and getting the space ready for new work.

Rough plumbing, electrical, and framing usually follow for another two to three weeks. Cabinets, flooring, and finishes often take an additional two to four weeks, with final adjustments happening toward the end.

These phases can overlap, but they still need to happen in the right order. Skipping steps or pushing too hard usually creates more delays, not fewer.

Can you live in your home during a kitchen renovation?

In most cases, yes. Many homeowners stay in their homes during kitchen renovations. It just takes planning. Temporary cooking setups, clear communication, and realistic expectations make a big difference.

If the kitchen is part of a larger project, like a **whole home renovation** (/whole-home-renovation), timelines are usually coordinated across spaces so work flows logically instead of feeling chaotic.

How should you plan your own timeline?

The best way to plan is to assume the middle of the range, not the shortest possible scenario. Build in flexibility, make decisions early, and leave room for the unexpected.

If you want to talk through timing for your specific home and understand what a realistic schedule looks like, a kitchen renovation consultation is a good place to start.