How Long Does It Take to Replace Kitchen Cabinets? Best Guide

Wondering how long does it take to replace kitchen cabinets? Here is the short answer. Simple swaps with stock cabinets can wrap up in a few days once everything is on site. Semi-custom and custom jobs take longer because you have to wait for the build. Full remodels take the longest due to layout changes and countertop timelines.

In this guide, you will get realistic timelines you can plan around, a step-by-step schedule from demo to final touch-ups, and practical tips to avoid delays. Keep reading if you want a clear plan that fits your home, budget, and schedule.

How long does it take to replace kitchen cabinets? Real timelines you can plan around

Cabinet timelines depend on what you buy, your kitchen size, and whether you hire a pro. Stock is fastest. Custom takes the longest. Countertops add extra time.

At a glance:

• Stock cabinets: install in about 2 to 5 days once on site.
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• Semi-custom: plan about 4 to 8 weeks for ordering, then 3 to 5 days to install.
• Custom: common window of 6 to 12 weeks for design and build, plus about 1 week to install.
• Full remodels: usually 3 to 5 weeks or more, since trades and countertops must be scheduled.

Plan for extra time if you have repairs, plumbing or electrical changes, or a large kitchen. DIY often doubles the timeline compared to a pro.

Stock cabinet replacement timeline (fastest option)

Once stock cabinets and hardware arrive, many pros finish removal and install in about 2 to 5 days. Small kitchens can be faster. Larger rooms or uneven walls take longer.

If you are adding new countertops, templating happens after base cabinets go in. Fabrication and install usually add 1 to 2 weeks before final touches like trim and backsplash.

DIY typically takes longer. First-time installers should budget extra days for shimming, leveling, and corrections.

Semi-custom cabinet timeline (ordering plus install)

Semi-custom orders usually take about 4 to 8 weeks to arrive. You get more sizing options, finishes, and add-ons, which adds time up front.

Once the order is in hand, install often takes 3 to 5 days. Delays can pop up from measurement changes, back-ordered parts, or booking the installer during busy seasons.

Custom cabinet timeline (design to finish)

Custom cabinets involve detailed design, shop drawings, and precise builds. A common window is 6 to 12 weeks to design and build, plus about 1 week to install.

Very high-end projects can run 2 to 3 months or longer from design to finish. On-site adjustments are common, which can add a few days.

Cabinet-only swap vs full kitchen remodel

A cabinet-only swap is usually faster. You are staying within the same layout and skipping most trades.

A full remodel can take 3 to 5 weeks or more. You are moving plumbing or electrical, reworking flooring, and coordinating multiple crews. Countertops add time because they require templating after base cabinets are set, then fabrication and install.

DIY vs pro: how the timeline changes

DIY jobs often take about twice as long as a professional install. You are learning as you go, and setup takes time.

Pros can install stock cabinet sets in 1 to 3 days for small kitchens. DIYers should add time for leveling, shimming, and handling surprise repairs behind walls.

Step-by-step schedule: what happens and how long each phase takes

Here is a simple phase-by-phase plan. Times vary by kitchen size and scope. Use this to set a realistic schedule.

• Planning and design: 1 to 2 weeks for basic projects, longer for custom.
• Ordering and delivery: stock in days, semi-custom and custom in weeks.
• Demo and prep: 2 to 6 days for removal and wall repairs.
• Install: 1 to 3 days for stock, 3 to 7 days for custom.
• Countertops and finish work: 1 to 2 weeks for countertops, plus a few days for backsplash and punch list.

Plan, measure, and design

Set aside 1 to 2 weeks for measuring, layout tweaks, and finish selections. Custom designs need more time.

Confirm appliance sizes, door swings, and clearances to avoid reorders. Get at least two quotes if you are on the fence.

Order and delivery

Local suppliers can get stock cabinets in about 3 to 5 days. Semi-custom and custom builds take roughly 4 to 12 weeks, depending on demand.

Inspect all deliveries at once. Look for damage, missing hardware, or wrong sizes. Report issues the same day to protect your timeline.

Demo and room prep

Plan 1 to 3 days to remove old cabinets and haul debris. Add 1 to 3 days for patching drywall, priming, and small repairs.

Cap plumbing lines, protect floors, and turn off power to affected circuits. Check for hidden issues like mold, bad wiring, or out-of-square walls.

Install new cabinets

Stock installs often take 1 to 3 days in a typical kitchen. Custom installs can take 3 to 7 days, especially with on-site fitting.

Set your reference line and check level and plumb on every box. Use solid backing, proper screws, and mounting rails. Keep shims, filler panels, and hardware labeled and within reach.

Countertops, backsplash, and punch list

After base cabinets are set, a countertop pro will template. Fabrication and install usually take 1 to 2 weeks.

Add 1 to 3 days for backsplash, trim, touch-up paint, door adjustments, and caulk. Schedule final plumbing reconnects, then test every door, drawer, and joint.

What speeds things up or slows them down

You can save days with smart prep, clean measurements, and tight scheduling. You can also lose days if materials arrive damaged or if walls are out of square. Plan a buffer so small snags do not wreck your week.

Top factors that affect how long it takes

• Kitchen size and layout complexity
• Cabinet type, stock vs semi-custom vs custom
• Installer experience and crew size
• Wall, floor, or subfloor damage
• Plumbing or electrical moves
• Permit or inspection needs
• Countertop templating and fabrication lead times
• Availability of back-ordered parts or hardware

Common delays and how to avoid them

• Measure twice, then have a pro confirm key dimensions
• Verify appliance specs, door swings, and vent clearances
• Order early and confirm in-stock status for hinges, pulls, and fillers
• Inspect deliveries on day one, document damage, request replacements fast
• Book installers, countertop templaters, and plumbers in sequence
• Build a buffer for surprises behind walls

Prep tips that save days

• Clear the kitchen, empty cabinets, and move small appliances
• Protect floors, cover doorways, and set up dust control
• Label every box and bag all screws and brackets
• Stage tools, shims, screws, rails, fillers, and touch-up paint
• Have dumpsters or haul-away lined up before demo day

Living without a kitchen during the swap

• Set up a temporary kitchen with a microwave, toaster oven, and fridge
• Use disposable plates and utensils to cut cleanup
• Plan simple meals or prep freezer-friendly options
• Keep a small water station if the sink is out
• Create a safe path through the work zone to reduce stress

Conclusion

So, how long does it take to replace kitchen cabinets? Stock installs often finish in a few days once materials are on site. Semi-custom and custom require weeks for build, then several days for install. Full remodels take the longest because countertops and trades must be scheduled in order.

Confirm measurements, order early, and decide if DIY or a pro fits your time and skill. With a clear plan and a small buffer, you will hit a timeline you can trust. Set your schedule, then enjoy your new kitchen.