The first question is almost always the same: how long does a kitchen remodel take? For most Jacksonville homeowners, a full kitchen remodel takes 6 to 12 weeks from demolition to final walk-through. The real timeline depends on scope, whether you move plumbing or walls, material lead times, and how long the City of Jacksonville takes to issue permits.
Typical Kitchen Remodel Timelines
| Project Type | Timeline | 2026 Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinet refinishing / painting | 3 to 7 days | $1,800 – $6,500 |
| Cabinet refacing | 1 to 2 weeks | $6,000 – $12,000+ |
| Cosmetic remodel (no layout change) | 3 to 5 weeks | $12,800 – $25,000 |
| Standard full remodel | 6 to 9 weeks | $25,000 – $45,000 |
| Large / luxury remodel | 10 to 16 weeks | $45,000 – $72,000+ |
The biggest reason a remodel runs long is waiting on custom cabinets, special-order counters, permits, and back-ordered fixtures.
Timeline: Phase by Phase
Here is what happens during a full kitchen remodeling project.
1. Design and Planning (2 to 6 weeks, before work starts)
Finalize layout, choose materials, and place orders. Custom cabinets often carry a 4 to 8 week lead time.
2. Permits (1 to 3 weeks)
Electrical, plumbing, gas, or structural changes need permits from the City of Jacksonville. Cosmetic-only projects often need none.
3. Demolition (2 to 4 days)
Old cabinets, counters, and flooring come out; occasionally hidden water damage or wiring adds days.
4. Rough-In: Plumbing, Electrical, Framing (1 to 2 weeks)
Moved sinks, new outlets, and wall changes happen now, usually with a mid-project inspection.
5. Drywall, Paint, and Flooring (1 to 2 weeks)
Our drywall repair, interior painting, and flooring installation crews often overlap here.
6. Cabinet and Countertop Installation (1 to 2 weeks)
Cabinets go in, then stone counters are templated and fabricated (1 to 2 weeks).
7. Backsplash, Fixtures, Details (3 to 7 days)
Tile, sink, faucet, appliances, hardware, and lighting are installed.
8. Final Inspection and Walk-Through (1 to 3 days)
Permitted work passes inspection and we complete a punch list.
What Makes It Take Longer?
- Moving plumbing, gas, or walls.
- Custom cabinets (6 to 8 week lead times).
- Back-ordered tile, stone, or fixtures.
- Mid-project change orders.
- Hidden rot, mold, or outdated wiring.
Want It Faster? Refinish or Reface
If your boxes are solid, cabinet painting and refinishing can update a kitchen in 3 to 7 days for $1,800 to $6,500, with no permit delays. Popular in Nocatee, Fleming Island, and Mandarin. See kitchen refinishing.
How to Choose a Contractor
- Verify Florida licensing and insurance.
- Get a written, itemized estimate.
- Review completed local projects.
- Confirm the schedule and who handles permits in writing.
- Ask about the workmanship warranty.
New Empire is licensed and insured, pulls proper permits, and gives a realistic schedule. We also handle bathroom remodeling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a kitchen remodel take on average?
A full kitchen remodel in Jacksonville typically takes 6 to 12 weeks. Cosmetic projects finish in 3 to 5 weeks; large remodels 10 to 16 weeks. Cabinet refinishing can be done in 3 to 7 days.
How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Jacksonville in 2026?
Full remodels range $12,800 to $72,000. Cabinet refinishing $1,800 to $6,500, refacing $6,000 to $12,000+, replacement $12,000 to $25,000+.
Do I need a permit for a kitchen remodel in Jacksonville?
You need a permit for electrical, plumbing, gas, or structural changes. Cosmetic work often requires none; a licensed contractor handles permitting.
Can I use my kitchen during the remodel?
Usually not fully during demo and installation; most set up a temporary kitchenette. Refinishing keeps downtime to a few days.
What is the fastest way to update my kitchen?
Cabinet painting, refinishing, or refacing, often under a week with no permit delays.
Does New Empire Remodeling offer a warranty?
Yes, a written workmanship warranty, reviewed during your free estimate.
Ready to start? Call (904) 820-5573 or request your free estimate online.
