How Long Does It Take to Remodel a Kitchen? A Surrey & White Rock Homeowner’s Guide

One of the first questions we hear from homeowners is a simple one:

“How long does it take to remodel a kitchen?”

If you live in Surrey or White Rock, the answer depends on the scope of work, the age of your home, and how well the project is planned. While every kitchen renovation is unique, most professionally managed remodels follow a fairly predictable timeline.

This guide breaks down realistic kitchen renovation timelines, what affects them, and how to avoid unnecessary delays so you can plan with confidence.

Average Kitchen Remodel Timelines in Surrey & White Rock

Most kitchen remodels fall into one of three categories:

Basic / Cosmetic Kitchen Remodel: 3-5 Weeks

Best for updates without layout changes.

Typically includes:

• Cabinet refacing
• New basic countertops 
• Backsplash tile
• Updated lighting
• New sink and faucet
• Minor plumbing or electrical work

Because plumbing and appliance locations stay the same, these projects move faster.

Mid-Range / Full Kitchen Remodel:  8-12 weeks

This is the most common kitchen renovation timeline for Surrey and White Rock homes.

Typically includes:

• Full cabinet replacement
• New countertops
• Tile or LVP flooring
• Updated lighting plan
• Electrical and plumbing upgrades
• New appliances
• Improved layout without major structural changes

This timeline allows for proper sequencing, inspections, and quality installation.

High-End or Custom Kitchen Remodel:  16+ Weeks

For large kitchens or highly customized projects.

Typically includes:

• Layout changes
• Island or peninsula additions
• Wall removals or structural work
• Custom cabinetry
• Premium finishes and tile
• Specialty lighting and millwork

More complexity means more coordination but also a significantly higher-end result.

Step-by-Step Kitchen Remodel Timeline

Here’s how a professionally managed kitchen renovation typically unfolds.

1. Planning & Final Selections (2-4 Weeks Before Construction)

Before construction begins:

• Layout is finalized (plans and permits may be required)
• Cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and finishes are selected
• Appliances are ordered
• Timeline and scope are confirmed

Good planning upfront is the #1 factor in keeping a kitchen remodel on schedule.

2. Prep and Demolition (2-4 Days)

• Protect floor and set-up plastic hoarding
• Removal of old cabinets, countertops, flooring, and backsplash
• Safe disposal and site preparation

3. Plumbing & Electrical Rough-Ins (1-2 Weeks)

• Plumbing updates for sinks, dishwashers, fridges
• Electrical upgrades for lighting, outlets, and appliances
• Bringing systems up to current code

Older homes in Surrey and White Rock often require more work at this stage.

4. Drywall & Preparation (5-8 Days)

• Reinforce framing and add backing
• Drywall repairs or modifications
• Ceiling work if lighting is changed
• Surface preparation for cabinets and flooring
• Prime and Paint
• Measure for cabinets, then order them

5. Flooring Installation (3-7 Days)

• Tile, luxury vinyl plank (LVP), or engineered hardwood
• Floor prep and leveling as required

Flooring is often installed before cabinetry for best results.

6. Cabinet Installation (1-2 Weeks)

• Base cabinets
• Upper cabinets
• Pantry units
• Island or peninsula cabinets

This phase requires precision and should never be rushed.

7. Countertop Templating & Installation (2-4 Weeks)

• Templating after cabinets are installed
• Fabrication off-site
• Final installation

Quartz and stone countertops add time but deliver durability and value.

8. Backsplash, Fixtures & Finishing (2 Weeks)

• Backsplash tile installation
• Sink, faucet, and appliance hookups
• Lighting and electrical finishing
• Trim, paint touch-ups, and details

9. Final Walkthrough & Cleanup (1-2 Days)

• Quality inspection
• Homeowner walkthrough
• Final adjustments if needed

A professional contractor ensures everything functions perfectly before handover.

What Can Delay a Kitchen Remodel?

Common causes of delays include:

• Late material selections
• Backordered cabinets or appliances
• Changes to scope during construction
• Hidden issues (outdated wiring, plumbing, structural surprises)
• Poor planning or vague quotations

This is why choosing the right contractor matters.

How Golden Vista Construction Keeps Kitchen Remodels on Schedule

For homeowners in Surrey and White Rock, we focus on planning, transparency, and execution.

Our process includes:

• A phone consultation to understand your needs
• A detailed quotation listing all materials and products
• A clear project timeline so you know what to expect
• Vetted, professional trades only
• Organized, clean job sites
• Clear communication throughout the project
• Above industry standard warranty

And our service doesn’t stop at completion.

We check in at 3 days, 3 weeks, 3 months, and annually to ensure your kitchen continues performing exactly as it should.

So, How Long Should You Expect Your Kitchen Remodel to Take?

Cosmetic kitchen remodel: ~3-5 weeks

Full standard kitchen remodel: ~8-12 weeks

High-end/custom kitchen remodel: 16+ weeks

A properly built kitchen prioritizes quality, durability, and craftsmanship not rushing the process.

Final Thoughts

A kitchen remodel is a major investment, but with the right planning and the right contractor, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Understanding realistic timelines allows you to prepare properly, minimize disruption, and avoid surprises.

A great kitchen remodel isn’t about speed, it’s about doing it right.

Planning a Kitchen Remodel in Surrey or White Rock?

Golden Vista Construction proudly serves Surrey, White Rock, and the Lower Mainland with high-quality kitchen renovations built to last.

👉 Fill out our client intake form to get started

or

📞 Call us for a phone consultation

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We’ll help you plan the right timeline and deliver a smooth, stress-free renovation experience.

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