No two kitchen renovations are the same.
You might be planning a full-scale remodel, kitting out your kitchen with new walls, flooring and a fresh coat of paint. But some people only go so far as replacing their kitchen taps.
While renovating might not have a one-size-fits-all timeline, all home improvement projects are a labour of love. Kitchen renovations require extensive planning, preparation, and, often, financial investment. However, if you’ve set aside the funds (and know exactly what you want), the process may not take as long as you think. Join Rehome as we take you through our kitchen renovation guide!
Ask yourself these questions when planning a kitchen:
Kitchen remodels don’t just happen overnight! First, you’ve got to outline your priorities. Preparation, while not as exciting as browsing samples or installing appliances, is just as important as the physical renovation.
Here, you’ll make vital decisions on the scope of your renovation: Are you starting with a blank canvas or building upon the existing space? Will this project be focused on aesthetic or functional changes?
Developing a plan can be daunting. But the stronger your foundation, the less room there is for costly errors. You can start by asking the following questions:
What will my new kitchen mainly be used for? → Do you use your kitchen solely to cook, or is it more of a dining area? In which case, how many people will be eating in your kitchen? Do you need to browse for tables or home bars? Tailoring the renovation to suit how your kitchen is used on a day-to-day basis will make sure no money is wasted!
What are the priority items? → These are needs, not wants (and likely the reason you want to renovate in the first place!) Whether that’s new cabinets, a fridge-freezer or new flooring, outlining the non-negotiable purchases will help you prioritise.
Which appliances do I need? → Appliances are the backbone of the kitchen. Electrical appliances, like ovens, may last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, whereas fridge freezers and gas ranges can last between 10 and 20.
What are my ‘wants’ not ‘needs’? → These are the fun purchases: the items that you don’t necessarily need but may have had your eyes on for years. Coffee machines, dishwashers, and wine coolers are some good examples!
What do I definitely not want? → These are the elements of your kitchen that you are sure you want to change. For example, if your decade-old kitchen cabinets no longer look right with your decor. Maybe it’s finally time to get rid of the pantry you no longer use.
What is a realistic kitchen remodel timeline?
Again, it’s hard to give specifics: all kitchen remodels are unique to the home and homeowner. However, you can make some general estimations based on the scope of the project and additional padding time.
Scope
Minor renovations, such as replacing worktops, updating cabinets and switching fixtures, could be completed in as little as 2–4 weeks.
However, more extensive projects involving altering the layout, upgrading plumbing, or installing custom cabinets can extend the timeline by several months. To make accurate estimations, you must consider how big the project will turn out to be.
It’s also important to factor in how long it takes to source materials like cabinetry, appliances, and flooring, as delivery delays can extend the schedule even further.
Padding
Failure to prepare is preparing to fail! Unexpected delays are inevitable in most kitchen renovations. From material delivery setbacks to unforeseen structural issues, giving yourself plenty of padding time is the best way to stay on track.
We recommend adding 10-15% of the projected time to your schedule. For example, if you're expecting a 6-week renovation, consider preparing for it to last closer to 7 weeks to account for potential delays.
Do I need a professional builder?
Even if you’re a seasoned DIY expert, some kitchen renovation tasks can only be completed with expert help.
Substantial changes, such as moving plumbing or electrical wiring, knocking down walls, or installing gas appliances, will require professional services.
In the UK, it’s these certified tradespeople who are essential for making sure your kitchen renovation complies with regulations.
For instance, gas appliances must be handled by a Gas Safe registered engineer, and electrical work should be completed by a qualified electrician to avoid complications. Plus, where timelines are concerned, professionals can get the job done much quicker!
Step-by-step guide to kitchen remodelling
Before the renovation
Set a budget
First and foremost, you should outline how much you’re willing to spend on your kitchen makeover (and account for potential costs such as materials, labour, and any necessary licences if you’re making structural alterations).
It’s always wise to include a contingency buffer of around 10-20% to cover unexpected expenses, such as delays or unforeseen structural repairs: this will help keep your project on track without unpleasant surprises!
Look for ideas/inspiration
Pinterest will be your best friend during a kitchen renovation. Before diving into the design process, take time to research and gather ideas that resonate with your vision.
You can also find inspiration in magazines, home improvement blogs, or by visiting kitchen showrooms in person.
Research/hire labourers
When hiring labourers, it’s best to gather quotes from at least three different contractors to compare costs and services.
Always check their qualifications, experience, and reviews to make sure they’re reliable. Look for local traders, and be sure to choose a contractor with relevant experience in kitchen renovations!
Phase 1: Planning the renovation
Phase 1 of the project is where you set a solid foundation. By preparing now, all other elements of the renovation should fall into place.
Measure the space
Start by measuring the dimensions of your kitchen, including the placement of windows, doors, and utilities like plumbing and electrical points.
A sketch of the layout will help when communicating with contractors or designers, and it will also guide the installation of cabinets, worktops, and appliances.
Double-check all measurements, as even minor inaccuracies can lead to costly adjustments later on!
Apply for planning permission (if required)
In most cases, a kitchen remodel will not require planning permission unless it involves structural changes, such as extending your kitchen space or altering a load-bearing wall.
However, if your home is a listed building or within a conservation area, planning permission may be necessary. If you’re making structural changes, we recommend contacting your local planning authority early in the process.
Order samples!
This is the fun part! Nothing compares to actually seeing and feeling the materials in person.
With physical samples, you can see how they interact with the natural and artificial light in your kitchen. You might like the look of a texture online, but it could look completely different when it’s in your hands.
Taking preparatory steps like this may slightly extend your lifetime, but it’s nothing compared to the stress of returning bulk orders and purchasing new ones.
Phase 2: Ordering products
Once you’ve completed the initial planning, the next phase involves securing all the materials and products. Here’s a breakdown of what you should focus on:
Order cabinets
Cabinets are often the focal point of your kitchen, so ordering them early is the best way to avoid delays! Depending on whether you choose stock or custom cabinetry, delivery times can range from 4 to 8 weeks.
Order appliances
Once your cabinet layout is finalised, you can start ordering appliances! The size and style of your appliances will directly influence the placement and installation of your cabinets.
Most major appliances, including ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers, may have lead times of several weeks, so it’s important to order these as soon as possible.
Order complimentary items
If you’ve completed the phase 1 steps in as much detail as possible, you’ll have a well-rounded idea of the extra elements your kitchen needs.
From lighting fixtures to sinks, kitchen mixer taps to backsplashes, ordering these products alongside your cabinets and appliances means that (hopefully) they will all arrive at the same time!
Establish a ‘temporary’ kitchen
If you plan to live in your home during the renovation, you’ll need to set up a temporary kitchen.
Choose a space near a water supply and set up basic appliances like a microwave, toaster oven, and a small fridge: this space will help you maintain some normalcy while the main kitchen is out of action.
Kitchen cleanout
Before demolition begins, clear out your kitchen.
Sort through your belongings and pack up everything you don’t need or valuables you want to protect. The kitchen clean-out can also be an excellent opportunity to get rid of items you’ve been meaning to dispose of for months.
Make sure to label boxes clearly so you can easily find essential items during the renovation!
Phase 3: Early construction
Here is where the help of professionals will help your dreams become reality.
Demolition
Depending on the extent of your building work, demolishing your existing kitchen could take anywhere from 1 to 2 weeks. The process could involve removing old cabinetry, worktops, flooring, and sometimes walls.
For these jobs, hiring professionals is essential, as there may be hidden plumbing or electrical wiring that needs careful handling.
Structural alterations
Once the structural work is done, licensed professionals will reroute or install new plumbing, electrical wiring, and HVAC systems. This phase, known as the "rough-in," typically takes one to two weeks.
It’s a vital step that sets the foundation for your appliances, lighting, and ventilation.
Install plasterboard and paint
After the rough-in is complete, the walls and ceilings can be closed up with plasterboard (drywall).
Completing this step, which includes prepping, taping, and finishing the seams, typically takes one to two weeks. Following the plasterboard installation, you can begin painting!
Install flooring
Flooring is often installed towards the end of this phase, following the completion of the plasterboard and painting. Depending on your choice of materials, whether it's tile, hardwood, or laminate, installation can take two to four days.
You should always make sure the flooring is carefully protected if other work is still ongoing, like cabinetry installation.
Phase 4: End of construction
The final stretch brings all your hard work and planning together!
Install cabinets
The complexity and size of your kitchen layout may affect cabinet installation times: it can take between 1 and 3 days.
Here, you’ll see your storage system begin to take shape. Make sure that all measurements align properly to avoid any gaps between the cabinets and walls.
Install worktops
After the cabinets are securely installed, it’s time for the worktops! Installing these can take up to a week, as worktops often require custom fabrication to ensure they fit neatly around the sink and appliances.
However, worktops like granite or quartz may require professional installation due to their weight and precision requirements.
Install appliances
It’s time to give your appliances their new home in your kitchen! Provided the right measurements have been taken, appliances like your fridge, freezer and oven should fit right in.
You may need professional assistance to make sure that everything is properly connected to your home’s plumbing and electrical systems.
Install hardware/finishing touches
Now comes the final detailing: installing cabinet handles, drawer pulls, and any decorative trims: this is where you’ll really see your design come to life.
Decorative trims and draw pulls can usually take 1 to 2 days to install, however, this depends on how intricate they are.
Clean-up!
No one wants debris and packaging lying around their new kitchen, but both are inevitable. So, be prepared with plenty of cleaning supplies. Go over your new flooring with a mop (if you haven’t installed new flooring, still clean it!)
You can also dust off any new surfaces and perhaps schedule a skip to collect any mess that’s too big to dispose of in your personal bins.
Frequently Asked Questions:
When is the best time to remodel a kitchen?
Autumn can be a great time for kitchen renovations, as it avoids the busy summer months and may align better with local labourers’ availability. During this season, temperatures are mild, which can benefit the installation of flooring and tasks like painting. However, there is no specific time for kitchen remodels: they can be completed any time of year.
How much does a kitchen remodel cost?
The cost of a kitchen remodel varies significantly, depending on materials, kitchen size, and desired finishes.
In the UK, a basic kitchen remodel can range from £5,000 for modest updates to around £30,000 for high-end, bespoke kitchens. Factors such as structural changes, choice of materials, and labour fees for skilled trades can impact this range.
What is the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel?
Typically, cabinets and worktops are the most costly elements in a kitchen remodel, especially if you pick premium materials like granite, quartz, or custom cabinetry. High-quality worktops can range widely, from £200 for laminate to £1,150 for granite.
What's the difference between remodelling and renovating?
In general terms, renovating a kitchen means refreshing or updating the existing space, such as replacing doors or painting cabinets. Remodelling, however, usually involves structural changes, like altering the layout, adding new cabinetry, or updating appliances.
Is a kitchen remodel worth it?
Of course, kitchen remodels are a rewarding investment! When done right, they will make your home all the more enjoyable to live in and cook in. Plus, if you ever plan on selling your property, a renovation can increase its value.
How much does a kitchen remodel add to home value?
While the exact return on investment for kitchen remodelling varies, you could expect your home’s value to increase by 5-10%. It all depends on what’s attractive to buyers, such as the materials and specific layout.
How to save money on a kitchen remodel?
You can save money on your kitchen remodel by shopping for ex-display kitchens with Rehome!
We offer luxury brands like John Lewis, Martin Moore and Humphrey Munson. Homeowners could save thousands of pounds compared to high-street purchasing, especially on our approved used kitchens and appliances.
