A full remodel is the right call when the problems are bigger than the finishes: a layout where two people can't cook at once, cabinets coming apart at the joints, not enough outlets, or plumbing and wiring that date from when the house was built. Rather than fixing these one at a time, a full remodel solves them together while the walls are open.
What's included in a full kitchen remodel
- Design and drawings: a measured plan, layout options and elevations of every cabinet wall.
- Demolition down to the studs and subfloor, with dust barriers and daily cleanup.
- Layout changes: moving or opening walls, relocating the sink, range or refrigerator.
- Plumbing and electrical: new supply and drain lines, dedicated appliance circuits, code-compliant outlets and a vented range hood.
- Insulation and drywall on exterior walls while they're open.
- New cabinets, countertops and backsplash, plus sink, faucet and hardware.
- Flooring, lighting, paint and trim.
- Permits, inspections and a final walkthrough.
Full remodel or refresh?
Not every kitchen needs to be gutted. If the layout works and the cabinet boxes are solid, you can often get a new look for much less with refacing or cabinet painting and new countertops. We'll tell you honestly which one your kitchen needs at the consultation.
| Refresh | Full remodel | |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | Stays the same | Can change completely |
| Cabinets | Refaced or painted | All new |
| Plumbing and electrical | Fixture swaps | Updated to current code |
| Construction time | 2 to 4 weeks | 6 to 10 weeks |
| Typical cost | $XX,000–$XX,000 | $XX,000–$XXX,000 |
The schedule, week by week
- Before construction (4 to 8 weeks): design, selections, permit application and ordering. Cabinets set the pace.
- Week 1: protection, demolition and debris removal.
- Weeks 2 to 3: framing changes, plumbing and electrical rough-in, then inspections.
- Weeks 3 to 4: insulation, drywall and flooring.
- Weeks 4 to 6: cabinet installation, then countertop templating. Counters arrive 1 to 2 weeks after templating.
- Weeks 6 to 8: counters, backsplash, plumbing and electrical finish, appliances, paint and trim.
- Final week: final inspection, punch list and walkthrough with you.
Larger layout changes or custom cabinetry can add a few weeks. Your proposal includes a schedule for your specific project.
Signs your kitchen needs a full remodel
- The layout fights you: two people can't cook at once, the dishwasher blocks the sink, or there's nowhere to set groceries down.
- Cabinets are failing: sagging shelves, drawers that won't close, swollen bases under the sink.
- Too few outlets: extension cords and power strips on the counter, or tripped breakers when the microwave and kettle run together.
- Old plumbing or wiring: galvanized pipes, ungrounded outlets, or a range hood that doesn't vent outside.
- The kitchen is closed off from the rooms where your family actually spends time.
One or two of these can sometimes be handled on their own. Three or more usually means a full remodel will cost less in the long run than fixing them one at a time.
What a full remodel costs
Full kitchen remodels in our area typically run $XX,000 to $XXX,000. The biggest variables are cabinet line, countertop material, and how much the layout changes. Our kitchen remodel cost guide breaks down each line item, and financing is available.
See finished kitchens
Browse kitchen remodel photos from homes in HQ City and nearby, or read what clients say about working with us.