When Remodeling a Kitchen What Comes First

Struggling to start your kitchen remodel? Get a clear, step-by-step guide on what to do first, so you can plan confidently and avoid costly mistakes.

Solving Your Kitchen Remodel Confusion

If your kitchen remodel feels like a maze with no exit—you’re not alone. Between layout choices, materials, and timing, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before a single tile is touched. The good news? A clear, step-by-step plan can cut through the noise and get you moving in the right direction.

Why the Order Matters

Starting out of sequence—say, buying appliances before designing the layout—can derail everything. The NKBA estimates poorly planned remodels can drive up costs by 20–35%. That’s not just about money; it’s weeks of lost time and added stress.

Getting the order right helps you:

• Avoid costly backtracking
• Keep contractors and deliveries on schedule
• Build a space that actually works for your life

“A remodel is like a relay race,” says Lina Hossain, NKBA-certified designer. “One misstep throws off the whole handoff.”

What You’ll Learn

This guide breaks it down simply:

• What to do first, next, and last
• How to avoid expensive mistakes
• Where you can save time without cutting corners

Define Your Goals and Budget

A great kitchen remodel starts with two things: a clear vision and a budget grounded in reality—not guesswork.

Set Your Kitchen Renovation Goals

Before spending a dime, ask yourself:

• Do I need more storage or better flow?
• Is this a family hub or a solo space?
• Am I designing for resale or for life?

Your answers will steer every choice, from layout to lighting.

Budget Smarter

• Reuse what works
• Buy materials locally
• Spend where it counts—like on function and durability

Don’t Forget Permits

Local permits can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand. Check with your city before locking in your budget.

Create a Detailed Plan and Design

Once your goals and budget are in place, it’s time to get into the nuts and bolts—literally. A detailed plan turns inspiration into action, and skipping this step is where most remodels go sideways.

Plan Your Kitchen Layout

The layout is the backbone of your kitchen remodel design. Whether you’re working with a galley, L-shape, or going full open-concept, smart planning can make even a small space feel expansive.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Workflow matters – Stick to the kitchen work triangle (sink, stove, fridge).
• Storage is gold – Maximize vertical space, corners, and under-island areas.
• Open-concept? – It’s still trending, but make sure your structural walls allow it.

Demolition and Preparation

With your plan locked and design finalized, it’s time to roll up your sleeves—demolition is where the remodel gets real. Surprisingly, many homeowners—and even some contractors—gloss over this phase. But how you start physically affects how smoothly the rest unfolds.

Kitchen Remodel Demolition

Expect a bit of dust, noise, and disruption—but also progress. On average, the demo-to-finish timeline runs 4 to 12 weeks, depending on scope, permits, and contractor availability.

“A clean, organized demo sets the tone for everything that follows,” says Rafiq Bhatti, a general contractor with over 20 years in kitchen renovations. “Rushed or careless tear-outs lead to costly setbacks.”

Demo tips to keep in mind:

• Use proper safety gear—gloves, eyewear, boots.
• Shut off power and water before any removal.
• Protect adjacent rooms with plastic sheeting.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Kitchen remodels can go sideways fast—but most issues are avoidable with a little foresight. Here’s how to dodge the big ones.

Budget Overruns

Stick to your plan.

• Get firm quotes—not ballparks.
• Leave 10–15% for surprises.
• Track costs weekly to stay ahead.

Scope creep is real—resist adding “just one more thing.”

Timeline Delays

Keep the project moving.

• Confirm contractor schedules up front.
• Order materials early to avoid backorders.
• Book permits and inspections ahead of time.

Your remodel isn’t the only job on your contractor’s list—plan accordingly.

Pick smart, not just stylish.

• Trends fade—function lasts.
• Choose neutral finishes with staying power.
• Prioritize layout and storage over flashy features.

Real Homeowner Insight

“We chose style over storage and paid for it mid-reno,” says Maria Iqbal of Karachi. “Our sleek cabinets looked great—but didn’t work. Thankfully, we adjusted. Now we love it and it works.”

Avoiding mistakes isn’t luck—it’s smart planning and knowing what not to do.

Final Touches and Maintenance

The dust has settled, the tools are gone, and your kitchen finally looks like the dream you envisioned. But you’re not done just yet. Finishing strong means taking a few smart steps to protect your investment—and enjoy it long-term.

Finish Your Kitchen Remodel Right

Final inspections are more than a formality—they ensure everything’s up to code and built to last.

• Confirm all electrical, plumbing, and structural work passed inspection.
• Do a walkthrough with your contractor to check finishes, hardware, and appliances.
• Create a punch list for any touch-ups or missing items.

Maintain Your New Kitchen

A little care goes a long way:

• Appliances: Wipe seals, check filters, and follow manufacturer guides.
• Countertops: Use the right cleaners (no bleach on quartz or granite).
• Floors: Avoid harsh chemicals; soft pads under chairs prevent scratching.

Set a reminder to deep-clean and reseal stone or grout annually, if needed.

Don’t Skip the Paperwork

• Know your coverage limits and timelines before issues arise.
• Collect all warranties—for appliances, fixtures, and contractor work.
• Store receipts, manuals, and contacts in one digital folder for easy access.