How to Do a Kitchen Remodel in Phases

Completing a major kitchen remodeling project in phases can be easier on both you and your wallet. A phased plan lets you address each step separately and dedicate as much time as needed for completion. This approach also helps reduce stress and allows you to move to the next step as your budget permits.

Design Phase

The design phase is vital to the success of your kitchen remodeling project. An overall design concept defines how the kitchen will look when completed and helps you make decisions on a variety of elements such as color choices, finishes and flooring. Issues such as clearance, head room and available work space should be addressed during the design phase. A project design can be as simple as a hand-drawn layout or blueprints provided by an architect.

Budget Phase

A detailed project budget should be divided into logical cost centers, such as fixtures, appliances, renovation, flooring, labor and electrical work. Add 10 percent for unexpected costs or overruns. A well-defined budget allows you to separate the project into phases determined by cost.

Planning Phase

In addition to budget constraints, completion deadlines and scheduling play a role in the planning process. Planning should include discussions on what construction phases can be completed without disruption to use of the kitchen, those that render the kitchen temporarily unusable and how you can function without a kitchen for extended periods. Define estimated time required to complete each item in your project. At this point, you should decide if this to be a DIY project or if a contractor is necessary.

Upper Cabinet Phase

In most cases, renovation or remodeling of upper kitchen cabinets does not render the room unusable. Painting, refacing or replacing pulls and hardware can generally be completed in an afternoon or weekend. Replacing upper cabinets requires more time and effort, but should not affect your ability to use the kitchen.

Cabinets and Countertop Phase

Renovating or updating countertops and cabinets may not require you to stop using your kitchen. As with the upper cabinet phase, painting and simple updates can usually be completed in a short period of time. However, replacement of these elements interrupts use of the kitchen because the plumbing and electricity has to be disconnected. Exact measurements for new countertops cannot be taken until base cabinets are completely installed, which may result in a day to two without a countertop. This phase is the logical time to replace sinks and faucets.

Appliance Phase

Appliances can be reused or replaced as allowed by the project budget. If using a general contractor, you may be able to purchase new appliances at a reduced contractor rate.

Flooring Phase

Renovation of existing wood, tile or vinyl flooring should not completely shut down your kitchen. Replacing the flooring can often be completed in a day or two, depending on the size and layout of your kitchen.

Accents and Design Element Phase

Installing a tile backsplash, replacing window treatments, updating lighting choices and adding design elements can be completed with your kitchen in full use and as time and budget allows.