The Question Every Homeowner Asks First
You've been dreaming about a new kitchen for months — maybe years. The cabinets are dated, the countertops have seen better days, and the layout just doesn't work for how your family actually lives. You're ready to move forward, but one question keeps nagging at you: how long is this going to take?
It's a fair question, and honestly, the answer depends on the scope of your project. But after years of completing kitchen remodels across Coral Springs and the surrounding communities, we can give you a realistic breakdown of what to expect — phase by phase — so you can plan your life around the renovation instead of just hoping for the best.
The Short Answer
A typical kitchen remodel takes 6 to 12 weeks from the start of demolition to the final walkthrough. Smaller updates like replacing countertops and refreshing cabinets might wrap up in 4 to 6 weeks. A full gut renovation with layout changes, new plumbing, and custom cabinetry can stretch to 14 weeks or more.
But the total timeline actually starts well before anyone picks up a hammer. Let's walk through every stage.
Phase 1: Design and Planning (2–4 Weeks)
This is the phase most homeowners underestimate. Before any work begins, you'll need to:
- Finalize your layout and design preferences
- Select materials — cabinets, countertops, tile, fixtures, and hardware
- Get accurate measurements and a detailed scope of work
- Secure any necessary permits from the City of Coral Springs
Rushing through this phase is one of the biggest mistakes we see. Taking the time to make thoughtful decisions here prevents costly changes and delays once construction is underway. If you're choosing custom cabinetry, keep in mind that manufacturing can add 4 to 8 weeks of lead time, so ordering early is critical.
Phase 2: Demolition (2–5 Days)
Once the plan is locked in and materials are ordered, demolition is actually one of the fastest parts of the project. Your old cabinets, countertops, flooring, and sometimes walls come out. If you're keeping your existing layout, this goes even quicker.
A few things to know about this phase:
- Your kitchen will be completely unusable during and after demo
- We recommend setting up a temporary kitchen station — a microwave, mini fridge, and paper plates go a long way
- Dust barriers and floor protection should be standard practice for any reputable contractor
Phase 3: Rough Work — Plumbing, Electrical, Framing (1–2 Weeks)
If your remodel involves moving the sink, adding an island with electrical outlets, upgrading lighting, or reconfiguring the layout, this is when that work happens. Plumbers and electricians come in to run new lines behind the walls and under the floor.
This phase also requires inspections. In Coral Springs, the building department will need to sign off on rough plumbing and electrical before walls can be closed up. Scheduling inspections promptly keeps the project moving forward.
Phase 4: Drywall, Painting, and Prep (3–5 Days)
With the rough work approved, walls get patched or replaced, and the space gets a fresh coat of paint. This is also when ceiling work, soffits, or any decorative trim details are addressed. It might feel like not much is happening visually, but this prep work sets the stage for everything that follows.
Phase 5: Cabinetry and Countertop Installation (1–2 Weeks)
Now the transformation really starts to take shape. Cabinets go in first, and once they're level and secured, countertop fabricators come out for final measurements. If you've chosen natural stone or quartz, there's typically a 5 to 10 business day window between templating and installation.
This waiting period is normal and unavoidable — but a good contractor will schedule other tasks during this gap so the project doesn't stall.
Phase 6: Tile, Flooring, and Backsplash (3–7 Days)
Flooring installation and backsplash tiling happen in this phase. The timeline depends on the material and complexity of the pattern. A simple subway tile backsplash takes a day or two. An intricate herringbone pattern with accent details takes longer.
South Florida's humidity can also affect tile adhesive and grout curing times, so experienced local contractors know to account for that in their scheduling.
Phase 7: Fixtures, Appliances, and Final Details (3–5 Days)
This is the home stretch. Your new sink and faucet get connected, appliances are installed, hardware goes on the cabinets, and under-cabinet lighting gets wired up. Outlet covers, switch plates, and trim pieces are all finished out.
A thorough contractor will also do a detailed punch list walkthrough with you to catch anything that needs touch-up or adjustment before calling the project complete.
What Causes Delays?
Even with the best planning, some things can push your timeline back. The most common culprits we see in the Coral Springs area include:
- Material backorders: Supply chain issues have improved but haven't disappeared. Ordering materials early is your best defense.
- Permit and inspection scheduling: Municipal timelines vary and are outside your contractor's direct control.
- Scope changes mid-project: Deciding to add recessed lighting or change your tile selection after work has started almost always adds time.
- Unexpected discoveries: Older homes in neighborhoods like Ramblewood or Cypress Run sometimes reveal outdated plumbing or water damage behind walls that needs to be addressed before moving forward.
How to Keep Your Remodel on Schedule
Homeowners have more control over the timeline than they might think. Here are practical steps you can take:
- Make all selections before demolition begins. Every tile, cabinet finish, countertop slab, and fixture should be chosen and confirmed.
- Be responsive. When your contractor asks a question or needs a decision, a quick answer keeps the crew productive.
- Avoid changes after construction starts. We know inspiration strikes at unexpected times, but mid-project changes are the number one cause of delays and budget overruns.
- Work with a local contractor. A company based in or near Coral Springs will have established relationships with local suppliers, inspectors, and subcontractors — all of which helps keep the schedule tight.
Plan Your Kitchen Remodel With Confidence
A kitchen remodel is a significant investment of time and money, but it doesn't have to be an unpredictable experience. When you understand the phases involved and work with a contractor who communicates clearly and plans thoroughly, the process becomes manageable — and even exciting.
At Broadleaf Home Extension, we walk every homeowner through a detailed timeline before any work begins. If you're considering a kitchen remodel in Coral Springs, Parkland, Coconut Creek, or the surrounding area, we'd love to help you understand exactly what your project will involve and how long it will realistically take. Reach out to start the conversation.