How to Plan Your Kitchen Remodel: Complete Timeline & Checklist

A kitchen remodel is one of the largest investments you'll make in your home—typically $60,000-$180,000 in Monmouth County. Success requires more than just choosing beautiful finishes. It demands careful planning, realistic timelines, and strategic sequencing.

After 50+ years managing kitchen remodels across New Jersey, we've learned that homeowners who understand the process from start to finish make better decisions, avoid costly delays, and experience far less stress.

The difference between a smooth renovation and a chaotic nightmare often comes down to planning. This guide walks you through every phase of a kitchen remodel, from initial dreaming to final walkthrough, with timelines, checklists, and insider tips to help you navigate the process with confidence.

Whether you're planning a complete kitchen renovation in Rumson, Holmdel, or anywhere in Monmouth County, this roadmap ensures you're prepared for what lies ahead.

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The Complete Kitchen Remodel Timeline

Total Duration: 8-14 weeks (depending on scope and complexity)

Phase 1: Pre-Construction Planning (2-4 Weeks)

Phase 2: Design & Selections (2-3 Weeks)

Phase 3: Ordering & Procurement (3-6 Weeks, Overlaps with Design)

Phase 4: Demolition (2-3 Days)

Phase 5: Rough-In Work (1-2 Weeks)

Phase 6: Installation (2-4 Weeks)

Phase 7: Finishing & Final Details (1 Week)

Let's break down each phase in detail.

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Phase 1: Pre-Construction Planning (2-4 Weeks)

Goal: Define your vision, set a realistic budget, and hire the right contractor.

Week 1-2: Establish Vision and Budget

Define Your Goals:

• What's driving this remodel? (outdated style, poor function, damage, preparing to sell)


• What do you love about your current kitchen?


• What frustrates you daily?


• How do you actually use your kitchen? (serious cooking, entertaining, quick meals, family gathering spot)


• What's your dream kitchen in a perfect world?

Create Your Wish List:

• Must-Haves: (new layout, more storage, better appliances, island)


• Nice-to-Haves: (butler's pantry, professional range, beverage fridge)


• Dream Features: (waterfall island, custom tile backsplash, smart appliances)

Establish Realistic Budget:

• Research typical costs in your area


• Determine how much you can spend


• Understand what's included (materials, labor, design, permits, appliances)


• Build in 10-20% contingency for unexpected issues


• Explore financing options if needed

Budget Guidelines for Monmouth County:

• Mid-Range Remodel: $60,000-$100,000


• Upscale Remodel: $100,000-$180,000


• Luxury Remodel: $180,000-$350,000+

Learn more about kitchen remodeling costs in NJ.

Week 2-3: Research and Interview Contractors

Finding Qualified Contractors:

• Get referrals from friends, neighbors, designers


• Search "kitchen remodeling near me" and read reviews


• Verify licensing (NJ Home Improvement Contractor License required)


• Check BBB ratings and complaints


• Review portfolios and past projects


• Visit showrooms if available

Interview 3-5 Contractors:

Ask about:

• Years in business and projects completed


• Licensed, bonded, and insured status


• Design services included or separate


• Who will be on-site daily


• Typical project timeline


• How they handle changes and delays


• Payment schedule and terms


• Warranty on workmanship

Red Flags to Avoid:

• Requires large upfront payment (>10-20%)


• No written contract


• Can't provide references


• No contractor license


• Significantly lowest bid (often means corners cut)


• Pressure to sign immediately

Find licensed kitchen remodeling contractors in Monmouth County.

Week 3-4: Site Assessment and Preliminary Design

What the Contractor Should Do:

• Measure your current kitchen precisely


• Assess structural considerations (load-bearing walls, plumbing locations, electrical capacity)


• Identify code compliance issues


• Discuss layout options


• Review wish list and budget


• Provide preliminary timeline

What You Should Do:

• Share inspiration photos


• Discuss daily routines and how you use the space


• Identify storage needs


• Explain entertaining style


• Mention accessibility needs if relevant


• Discuss temporary kitchen plans

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Phase 2: Design & Selections (2-3 Weeks)

Goal: Finalize design, select all materials, and lock in the plan before ordering.

Design Development

Your designer/contractor will create:

• Floor plan with exact dimensions


• Elevation drawings (wall views)


• 3D renderings if available


• Electrical and plumbing plans


• Lighting plan


• Cabinet layout with specifications

Key Design Decisions:

Layout Options:

• Keep existing footprint (faster, less expensive)


• Relocate appliances/plumbing


• Remove walls for open concept


• Add island or expand existing one


• Incorporate pantry or butler's pantry

Storage Planning:

• Assess what you own and need to store


• Plan drawer inserts and organizers


• Determine pantry needs


• Consider appliance garage


• Plan for trash/recycling

Material Selections (Critical Path Item)

Order of Selections:

1. Cabinets (Longest Lead Time - Order First)

• Style (shaker, flat-panel, traditional, modern)


• Color/finish (paint, stain, two-tone)


• Hardware (pulls, knobs, finish)


• Modifications (lazy susans, pull-outs, drawer organizers)

Lead Time: 6-10 weeks for custom cabinets, 2-4 weeks for stock cabinets

2. Countertops

• Material (granite, quartz, quartzite, marble)


• Color and pattern


• Edge profile


• Backsplash height


• Waterfall edge if desired

Lead Time: 2-4 weeks after template (template happens after cabinet installation)

3. Appliances

• Range/cooktop and oven


• Refrigerator


• Dishwasher


• Microwave/hood


• Additional (wine fridge, warming drawer)

Lead Time: 2-8 weeks depending on brand and availability

4. Flooring

• Material (hardwood, tile, luxury vinyl)


• Color and style


• Pattern (for tile)

Lead Time: 1-4 weeks depending on material

5. Backsplash Tile

• Material (ceramic, porcelain, glass, natural stone)


• Pattern and layout


• Grout color

Lead Time: 1-3 weeks

6. Lighting

• Pendant lights for island


• Recessed lighting


• Under-cabinet lighting


• Accent lighting

Lead Time: 1-4 weeks

7. Plumbing Fixtures

• Sink style and material


• Faucet finish and features


• Disposal


• Pot filler if desired

Lead Time: 1-3 weeks

8. Paint Colors

• Walls


• Trim


• Ceiling

Pro Tips for Selections:

• See materials in person (photos never capture true color and texture)
• Get large samples (small chips don't show pattern repeat)
• View samples in your space (lighting affects color dramatically)
• Consider the whole room (cabinets + counters + floor + walls together)
• Have backup choices (in case first choice is unavailable)
• Finalize before ordering (changes after ordering cost time and money)

Check our showroom for custom kitchen cabinets and countertop options.

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Phase 3: Ordering & Procurement (3-6 Weeks, Overlaps with Design)

Goal: Order all materials with enough lead time to avoid delays.

Critical Timing:

8-12 Weeks Before Installation:

• Order custom cabinets

6-8 Weeks Before Installation:

• Order appliances


• Order tile (if custom or imported)

4-6 Weeks Before Installation:

• Order flooring


• Order lighting fixtures


• Order plumbing fixtures

2-4 Weeks Before Installation:

• Order paint

AFTER Cabinet Installation:

• Template and order countertops (must measure installed cabinets)

Contractor Responsibilities:

• Coordinating orders and deliveries


• Tracking lead times


• Confirming correct items ordered


• Arranging storage if delivered early


• Inspecting materials upon delivery

Homeowner Responsibilities:

• Making final decisions quickly


• Being available for any questions


• Reviewing and approving submittals


• Arranging payment according to contract terms

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Phase 4: Demolition (2-3 Days)

Goal: Safely remove existing kitchen and prepare for construction.

Day 1: Disconnect and Remove

Morning:

• Final walk-through with contractor


• Confirm protection of adjacent rooms


• Disconnect appliances


• Cap plumbing lines


• Disconnect electrical (by licensed electrician)

Afternoon:

• Remove upper cabinets


• Remove window treatments


• Protect floors and adjacent spaces

Day 2: Major Removal

• Remove lower cabinets and countertops
• Remove sink and plumbing fixtures
• Remove flooring (if replacing)
• Remove backsplash

Day 3: Debris Removal and Inspection

• Haul away all debris
• Sweep and clean
• Inspect revealed conditions (subfloor, walls, plumbing, electrical)
• Identify any unforeseen issues
• Adjust plan if necessary

What Homeowners Should Expect:

• Noise and dust (even with protection)


• No access to kitchen


• Workers arriving 7:30-8 AM


• Debris dumpster in driveway


• Surprises (hidden damage, outdated wiring, mold, structural issues)

Setting Up Temporary Kitchen:

Essential Equipment:

• Microwave


• Toaster oven or hot plate


• Coffee maker


• Mini fridge


• Portable dishpan for washing


• Folding table for prep

Supplies:

• Paper plates, cups, utensils


• Plastic containers


• Basic cooking tools


• Dish soap and towels

Location Ideas:

• Dining room


• Basement


• Garage


• Guest bedroom

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Phase 5: Rough-In Work (1-2 Weeks)

Goal: Complete all behind-the-walls infrastructure before installation begins.

Week 1: Plumbing & Electrical

Plumbing Work:

• Relocate or add supply lines


• Install drain lines for sink(s)


• Run gas line for range/cooktop


• Add water line for fridge ice maker


• Install pot filler if specified


• Pressure test all lines

Electrical Work:

• Install dedicated circuits for appliances


• Add outlets per code (every 4 feet on counters)


• Wire for hood ventilation


• Install under-cabinet lighting


• Wire pendant locations


• Install dimmer switches


• Upgrade panel if needed

HVAC:

• Relocate vents if layout changed


• Install ventilation ducting for range hood


• Make-up air if required for high-CFM hoods

Week 2: Framing, Drywall, Inspections

Structural Work:

• Frame new walls if layout changed


• Install support beam if wall removed


• Repair or replace subfloor


• Insulate exterior walls

Drywall:

• Hang drywall on new or repaired areas


• Tape and mud joints


• Sand smooth


• Prime

Inspections:

• Plumbing rough-in inspection


• Electrical rough-in inspection


• Framing inspection if walls moved


• HVAC inspection if applicable

Critical: Cannot proceed to installation until inspections pass.

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Phase 6: Installation (2-4 Weeks)

Goal: Install cabinets, countertops, appliances, flooring, backsplash, and fixtures.

Week 1: Cabinets & Flooring

Cabinet Installation (2-4 days):

• Install upper cabinets first (easier access)


• Level and shim carefully (critical for doors/drawers)


• Install lower cabinets and island


• Install hardware


• Touch up any damage

Flooring Installation (2-3 days):

• Install underlayment if needed


• Install flooring (hardwood, tile, or luxury vinyl)


• Allow to acclimate and cure


• Grout tile floors


• Apply finish to hardwood

Timing Note: Some contractors install flooring before cabinets, others after. Both approaches work.

Week 2: Countertops & Sinks

Countertop Template (1 day):

• Fabricator measures installed cabinets precisely


• Confirms edge detail, backsplash, cutouts


• Typically 7-10 days from template to installation

Countertop Installation (1 day):

• Deliver and place slabs


• Cut sink and cooktop openings on-site


• Seam slabs if needed


• Apply undermount sink


• Seal seams and edges

Plumbing Connection (same day or next):

• Install sink and connect plumbing


• Install faucet


• Install disposal


• Install dishwasher

Week 3: Backsplash & Appliances

Backsplash Tile Installation (2-3 days):

• Prep wall surface


• Install tile (full-day process)


• Grout (next day after tile sets)


• Clean and seal if needed

Appliance Installation (1-2 days):

• Install range/cooktop (gas connection by licensed plumber)


• Install range hood (connect ventilation)


• Install built-in ovens if applicable


• Install dishwasher (connect plumbing and electrical)


• Install refrigerator (connect water line if ice maker)


• Install microwave

Week 4: Finishing Work

Painting:

• Paint walls


• Paint trim


• Paint ceiling if needed


• Touch up as needed

Electrical Finals:

• Install light fixtures


• Install outlet covers


• Connect under-cabinet lighting


• Program smart switches/dimmers

Trim Work:

• Install baseboards


• Install crown molding if specified


• Install window trim


• Caulk all gaps

Final Details:

• Install cabinet hardware


• Adjust cabinet doors and drawers


• Clean and polish


• Final protective treatment for counters

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Phase 7: Final Walkthrough & Completion (1-2 Days)

Goal: Ensure everything is complete, functional, and meets expectations.

Final Inspections

Required Inspections:

• Final electrical inspection


• Final plumbing inspection


• Final building inspection (if applicable)

Contractor cannot close out until inspections pass.

Homeowner Walkthrough Checklist

Cabinets:

• [ ] All cabinets installed and level


• [ ] Doors open/close smoothly


• [ ] Drawers glide properly


• [ ] Hardware installed correctly


• [ ] No visible damage

Countertops:

• [ ] Seams are tight and level


• [ ] No chips or cracks


• [ ] Sink is secure


• [ ] Backsplash is properly sealed


• [ ] Edges are smooth

Appliances:

• [ ] All appliances functional


• [ ] Range/cooktop heats properly


• [ ] Oven maintains temperature


• [ ] Refrigerator cools


• [ ] Dishwasher completes cycle without leaks


• [ ] Hood ventilation works

Plumbing:

• [ ] No leaks under sink


• [ ] Faucet operates smoothly


• [ ] Water pressure is good


• [ ] Disposal works


• [ ] Dishwasher drains properly

Electrical:

• [ ] All outlets work


• [ ] Lights function


• [ ] Switches control correct fixtures


• [ ] GFCI outlets trip and reset


• [ ] Under-cabinet lighting works

Flooring:

• [ ] Level and properly installed


• [ ] No gaps or loose tiles


• [ ] Properly finished (if hardwood)


• [ ] Clean and sealed

Paint & Finish:

• [ ] Walls are smooth and even


• [ ] No missed spots


• [ ] Trim is clean


• [ ] Caulking is neat

Overall:

• [ ] Space is clean


• [ ] Debris removed


• [ ] Touch-up list created


• [ ] Warranty information received


• [ ] Care instructions provided

Punch List

Create a punch list for any incomplete or incorrect items:

• Missing hardware


• Paint touch-ups needed


• Minor adjustments to doors/drawers


• Caulking gaps


• Cleaning needed

Contractor returns to complete punch list items (typically 1-2 days).

Final Payment

Typically due after:

• All work is complete


• Punch list is addressed


• Final inspections pass


• You're satisfied with the work

Never pay in full if work is incomplete.

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Living Through a Kitchen Remodel: Survival Tips

Meal Planning

• Stock up on paper goods
• Plan simple meals
• Budget for eating out ($200-400/week)
• Use slow cooker or Instant Pot
• Embrace sandwiches and salads

Protecting Your Home

• Seal off kitchen with plastic sheeting
• Cover HVAC vents
• Protect floors in work path
• Remove valuables from area
• Expect dust (even with precautions)

Communication

• Establish daily check-in time with contractor
• Make decisions quickly when needed
• Be available by phone
• Keep material samples handy for reference
• Document progress with photos

Maintaining Sanity

• Remember it's temporary (8-14 weeks)
• Focus on the end result
• Keep a sense of humor
• Plan mini-getaways on intense work days
• Celebrate milestones (demo done, cabinets in, etc.)

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Common Delays and How to Avoid Them

Material Delays

Causes: Supply chain issues, discontinued items, wrong orders Prevention: Order early, have backup selections, confirm items before ordering

Change Orders

Causes: Homeowner changes mind, unforeseen conditions, design flaws Prevention: Finalize design before ordering, expect hidden issues, build in contingency

Permit Delays

Causes: Incomplete applications, backlog at building department Prevention: File permits early, ensure application is complete, follow up proactively

Weather Delays

Causes: Can't deliver materials, can't ventilate during painting Prevention: Plan for weather, build in buffer time, be flexible

Contractor Scheduling

Causes: Other projects run long, subcontractor availability Prevention: Hire reputable contractors, get timeline in writing, maintain communication

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Investment Breakdown: Where Your Money Goes

Typical Allocation for $100,000 Kitchen Remodel:

• Cabinets: $25,000-35,000 (25-35%)
• Countertops: $8,000-15,000 (8-15%)
• Appliances: $10,000-20,000 (10-20%)
• Labor: $25,000-35,000 (25-35%)
• Flooring: $5,000-8,000 (5-8%)
• Lighting: $3,000-5,000 (3-5%)
• Plumbing Fixtures: $2,000-4,000 (2-4%)
• Backsplash: $2,000-5,000 (2-5%)
• Permits & Fees: $500-1,500 (0.5-1.5%)
• Contingency: $10,000-20,000 (10-20%)

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Working With Custom Kitchens by Lopez

We've guided hundreds of Monmouth County families through the kitchen remodeling process. Our approach:

✓ Transparent Timeline: We provide detailed schedules and stick to them
✓ Design Expertise: In-house design team to help you make the right choices
✓ Quality Craftsmanship: Licensed, experienced tradespeople
✓ Communication: Daily updates and easy access to project manager
✓ Clean Job Sites: Respect for your home during the process
✓ Warranty Backed: Stand behind our work

Schedule Your Free Consultation

We'll discuss your vision, walk through the process, provide a detailed timeline and estimate, and answer all your questions.

Call us today: 732.984.1043

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Related Resources

Planning Guides:

• Kitchen Remodeling Checklist


• Kitchen Remodeling Cost NJ


• Kitchen Renovation Regrets

Design Inspiration:

• Kitchen Remodeling Trends 2026


• Kitchen Island Ideas

Service Areas:

• Kitchen Remodeling Rumson


• Kitchen Remodeling Holmdel


• Kitchen Remodeling Colts Neck

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Custom Kitchens by Lopez | NJ License #13VH04175700 | 50+ Years Family Owned | 5.0★ Google Rating

Transforming Monmouth County kitchens with precision planning and expert craftsmanship since 1974