Typical Kitchen Renovation Timelines
The duration of a kitchen renovation depends on the scope of works, the size of the kitchen, and the complexity of the installation. Here's a realistic guide to typical timelines for different types of renovation:
Simple Kitchen Refresh: 3-5 Days
A simple refresh -- replacing doors and worktops on existing carcasses, updating appliances, and repainting -- can be completed in 3-5 days by an experienced kitchen fitter. This type of project typically doesn't require a plumber or electrician, and the disruption is relatively minimal.
Standard Kitchen Replacement: 1-2 Weeks
A standard kitchen replacement -- removing the old kitchen and installing a new one in the same layout -- typically takes 1-2 weeks. This allows time for the plumber and electrician to disconnect and reconnect services, the kitchen fitter to install the new units, and the tiler to complete any tiling works.
Full Kitchen Renovation with Layout Changes: 3-6 Weeks
If you're changing the layout of your kitchen -- moving the sink, adding an island, or opening up to an adjacent room -- the project becomes significantly more complex. Structural works, new plumbing runs, and electrical rewiring all add time. A realistic timeline for this type of project is 3-6 weeks, though complex projects can take longer.
Extension or Structural Works: 8-16 Weeks
If your kitchen renovation involves a house extension, structural alterations, or significant building works, the timeline extends considerably. The building works alone typically take 6-12 weeks, with the kitchen installation following on. Total project durations of 3-4 months are common for this type of project.
Why Kitchen Renovations Overrun
Kitchen renovations are notorious for overrunning. The most common causes are:
- Delayed deliveries -- kitchen units, worktops, and appliances are frequently delayed, particularly for bespoke or made-to-order items
- Unforeseen issues -- once the old kitchen is stripped out, problems with the existing plumbing, electrics, or structure often emerge
- Trade availability -- plumbers, electricians, and tilers are in high demand and may not be available when needed
- Change of mind -- homeowners frequently change their minds about elements of the design during the works, adding time and cost
Planning for Overruns
The best approach is to plan for your renovation to take longer than the contractor estimates. Add a 25-50% buffer to the quoted timeline, and arrange your temporary kitchen facilities for the extended period. It's much easier to extend a pod hire than to extend a hotel booking at short notice.
If you're using a temporary kitchen pod from FlexiPod Solutions, simply let us know if your project is running over and we'll extend the hire period. We're used to renovation overruns and we're flexible.