One of the most common questions we hear from Cherokee, Florence, and Muscle Shoals homeowners is: how long will my kitchen remodel actually take? The honest answer is that it depends on scope — but we can give you realistic ranges based on hundreds of kitchens we've done across Northwest Alabama.
Quick cosmetic refresh (1–2 weeks)
If you're painting cabinets, replacing hardware, swapping out a faucet, and adding a new backsplash — the whole job can be done in 1–2 weeks. There's no demo, no rough-in work, and minimal disruption to your daily routine. This is the fastest category and the best value per dollar spent.
Mid-range remodel with new cabinets (3–5 weeks)
Replacing cabinets, countertops, appliances, and flooring while keeping the same layout typically takes 3–5 weeks. The demolition takes 1–2 days. New cabinet installation takes 2–4 days depending on kitchen size. Countertop fabrication adds a 1–2 week lead time after templating. Tile and finish work wrap up the job.
Full gut remodel with layout changes (6–10 weeks)
Moving the sink, island, or any wall changes the timeline significantly. You're now in permit territory — which adds 1–3 weeks depending on your county. Rough-in plumbing and electrical must pass inspection before drywall goes up. For a full layout change in a Colbert County or Lauderdale County home, 6–10 weeks is realistic.
The biggest timeline killers
- Material lead times: Custom cabinets can take 6–10 weeks to arrive. Semi-custom 3–5 weeks. Stock cabinets are available immediately. Quartz countertops are typically templated and installed within 2 weeks of cabinet completion.
- Permit approval: Cherokee, Colbert County, Tuscumbia, and Florence all have different timelines. We've seen permits approved in 3 days and we've seen it take 3 weeks. We submit everything the same day you hire us to minimize delays.
- Hidden conditions: In older Alabama homes, once the drywall comes down you may find knob-and-tube wiring, undersized plumbing, or mold. Budget 10–15% contingency for surprises.
How we manage your kitchen timeline
At Adams Remodeling and Construction, we schedule subcontractors — plumber, electrician, cabinet installer, tile setter — before demo begins so there are no gaps between phases. You get a written schedule at project kickoff, updated weekly. We have done dozens of kitchens in Cherokee, Florence, Muscle Shoals, and Sheffield, and we know the local permit office timelines.
Ready to get a specific timeline for your kitchen? Contact us or call (256) 810-2107 for a free on-site estimate. We'll walk your kitchen, discuss your goals, and give you an honest timeline and budget in writing.
Ready to start your project?
Adams Remodeling and Construction, serving Northwest Alabama.
Licensed, insured, and based in Cherokee, AL. Free estimates across the Shoals and surrounding communities.