Wondering how long does a kitchen installation take? Our UK kitchen installation service typically takes 2-3 weeks. We deliver smooth, professional services that are guaranteed to transform your kitchen space.
The Typical Timeline for a Standard Kitchen Installation
A standard kitchen installation in the UK typically takes 2 to 3 weeks. Yet, this timeline can vary depending on your kitchen's size, complexity, and whether any issues or delays arise.
Generally, before the installation begins, a site survey will be carried out to confirm your kitchen's measurements and identify any potential challenges. The kitchen area must be empty, and any existing kitchen units and appliances need to be removed beforehand.
Plumbers will then disconnect the old water and gas lines, while the electricians will reroute the wiring to suit the new kitchen's design. This stage also covers any structural changes, such as removing or repositioning walls.
After that, the cabinets, base units, and cupboards are fitted, aligned, and securely fixed. Once the cabinets are in place, the worktops are cut, fitted, and sealed. However, materials like quartz, granite, or bespoke worktops may need extra time for templating and delivery. Once the worktops are fitted, the final adjustments are made, and any tiling, skirting boards, and sealants are installed.
Breakdown of Each Stage of the Installation Process
Installing a new kitchen involves several key stages, and each requires specific skills and has a different timeframe. On average, a full kitchen installation takes around 2 to 3 weeks.
The first stage is the site preparation, which usually takes 1 to 2 days. This stage involves clearing the kitchen area, removing old units, and disconnecting any existing appliances. It can also involve skip hire and safely isolating the gas, water, and electricity.
The next stage involves the plumbing and electrics, which can also take 1-2 days to complete. During this stage, qualified professionals will reposition the plumbing and electrical points to fit your new kitchen layout. This can include installing new sockets, lighting, or plumbing feeds, and any structural changes, like removing walls, will also take place here.
The plastering and surface preparation stage can be completed within 2 days, and it involves skimming or re-boarding the walls to create a smooth surface for painting or tiling. Any ceiling repairs, patching or smoothing will also occur at this stage.
During the kitchen unit installation stage, the cabinets, wall units, and storage features are installed. This includes aligning the doors, adding handles, and adjusting hinges. On average, this phase takes around 3-5 days to fully complete.
After this, laminate worktops can be fitted within the next 2 days, while stone or quartz may take longer since they need a template.
The appliances are then connected and tested within the next day or so, and the sinks, taps, ovens, hobs, extractors, and lighting are wired or plumbed in. Overall, the process takes 10-15 working days to complete, as long as there are no delays.
What Affects the Time Needed for Kitchen Installation?
Several factors can influence the time needed for a kitchen installation. While a standard installation takes around 2 to 3 weeks, certain elements can extend or shorten this timeframe.
Larger kitchens or layouts with multiple cabinets or integrated appliances can take longer to install. A simple galley kitchen with basic units can take less than 10 days to complete, while an open-plan kitchen with islands and custom worktops can take over three weeks to complete.
Laminate worktops can be installed within 1-2 days, but materials like granite, quartz, or solid wood often need templating after the units are fitted. This templating process can add another 5 to 10 days to the schedule due to the manufacturing and delivery time.
If significant changes to the plumbing or wiring are needed, such as relocating sinks, installing underfloor heating, or upgrading circuits, the overall timeframe is extended by at least another 2-3 days.
Late deliveries, missing components, or incorrect products can also delay your kitchen installation progress. Having all the materials on-site beforehand helps prevent these delays. Additionally, having efficient coordination between the fitters, electricians, plumbers, and tilers is essential. Delays can occur if one trade falls behind or isn’t available when you need it.
Delays to Watch Out For
During a new kitchen installation, delays can occur for various reasons. One of the most common delays is the late arrival of kitchen units, worktops, or appliances. Custom or made-to-order items like quartz worktops or bespoke cabinets often have longer lead times, and if the materials aren't on-site at the right time, the entire project can be delayed.
Ordering or delivering the wrong-sized cabinets, missing parts, or damaged goods can also delay the installation process. Even small items like hinges or handles can stop the installation process if they’re not available when you need them.
Granite, quartz, and solid wood worktops often go through a templating process after the cabinets are installed. The fabrication and delivery of these materials can take up to two weeks, which can leave a gap in the schedule before the appliances and sinks can be fitted.
Kitchen installations use multiple trades such as fitters, electricians, plumbers, plasterers, and tilers. If one trade is delayed, the others may not be able to proceed as planned.
Poor scheduling or trades that are in high demand can make it difficult to keep the installation process running smoothly.
Last-minute design alterations or indecision over the finishes, layout, or appliance placement can also interrupt the workflow and take extra time.
To minimise these delays, it's crucial to have a clear plan, good communication, and hire experienced installers with a proven track record.
We provide expert kitchen installation services across Cannock, Stoke on Trent and Staffordshire. From the kitchen's design to the final touches, our skilled team ensures every kitchen is installed to the highest standard and is tailored to your needs. We design and install kitchens that are beautiful and built to last.
