In this week's blog, we're providing some quick tips & tricks to ensure a smooth demolition and install phase of your kitchen renovation—so that you don't end up hosting Christmas dinner in a construction zone.
The beloved kitchen renovation—equal parts excitement and chaos! If you're diving into a kitchen remodel this season, you're probably already dreaming of that first holiday feast you'll cook up in your brand new space. But before you get there, you've got to tackle the demo and install phase—a task that can leave you living in a construction zone instead of cozying up by the tree. We're here to help you get through the dust and noise phase easily and maybe even with a smile!
Tip # 1: Set Up a Temporary Kitchen, Far From the Madness
First things first, don't leave yourself scavenging for snacks in a demo zone. If you set up a temporary kitchen, you'll still be able to enjoy your morning coffee without finding sawdust in it. Pro tip: locate this makeshift setup far away from the action. Maybe in the garage, a spare bedroom or heck, in your neighbor's house if they’ll let you! The goal here is to keep your food prep area free from debris while still having access to those essentials like your beloved coffee machine.
If you don't have the ability to set up a separate cooking area, budget for takeout! Let’s be real—trying to cook in a half-demolished kitchen is not going to be fun. Factor in a bit of extra cash in your renovation budget for takeout, because pizza delivery is going to become your new best friend. Not only will it save you from cooking, but it also adds a little extra joy to the process.
Tip # 2: Manage Expectations: It Takes Weeks, Not Days
Here’s a little reality check: your kitchen won’t be reborn overnight. In fact, you’re likely looking at several nights until your new kitchen is Christmas-cookie-ready. Expect your timeline to look a little like this:
Demolition: 3 Hours to 3 Weeks - this part can vary pretty widely. You can expect the demo phase to take anywhere from a few hours if you're just removing your cabinets, to a few weeks if you're ripping up flooring and removing walls.
Cabinetry Installation: 3 to 7 Days - expect to have you're cabinets in within give or take a week (depending on the size of the kitchen).
Countertop Installation: 1 to 4 Weeks - after your cabinets, come countertops. Again, this timeline can vary depending on whether you've chose laminate or stone. Laminate can be installed right away, while Quartz and Granite are a bit more time consuming. Reason being: templating. If you're unsure of what that is or how it works, check out our behind the scenes Instagram Reel here! After templating, cutting the stone can take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks.
Just like your timeline may extend, the physical part of the renovation can have a funny way of spreading out as well. Don't be surprised if your demolition zone extends into your dining room, living room and even out your back patio door. New electrical work? Better believe your contractor will need access to the basement. And hey, even if you're surprised with a shorter installation timeline, at least you've prepared for the worst!
Tip # 3: Distract Yourself with Holiday Cheer
You know that saying, "When the going gets tough, the tough go Christmas shopping"? Now’s your chance to live by it! Use the demo days as your golden opportunity to get out of the house and dive headfirst into all the holiday festivities you can find.
Visit local holiday markets, take in a light show, or knock out your entire gift list before December even hits. And if you’ve got kiddos at home, this might just be the perfect time to take them ice skating or make a visit to Santa. The less time you spend in the house, the less time you’ll spend staring at the chaos. Plus, getting into the festive spirit can keep your mood lifted and remind you why you’re going through this in the first place—soon that sparkling new kitchen will be hosting your best holiday celebrations yet!
Living through a renovation is a bit like running a marathon. There will likely be moments when you hit a wall, but keep in mind that the finish line is near. And once you make it through the dust and noise, you’ll have a brand-new kitchen waiting for you.
So, as you prepare for the holidays while simultaneously living through a renovation, remember that proper planning, a proactive mindset, and continuous communication can go a long way. Before you know it, you’ll be cooking up that holiday feast in your dream kitchen, and the demo phase will be a distant (and slightly dusty) memory.
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