In What Order Do You Remodel a Kitchen?

Remodeling your kitchen can completely transform the look and functionality of your home. The key is knowing what to tackle first, so everything runs smoothly. Following the right sequence will help you avoid costly mistakes, cut down on delays, and protect your kitchen remodeling budget. 

Frey Construction is a trusted kitchen remodeler with the expertise to guide every step of your kitchen remodel. Our guide walks you through the best order for a kitchen renovation, drawing on decades of experience with homeowners across Madison, Wisconsin.

How to Sequence a Kitchen Remodel

The order you tackle a kitchen remodel affects everything, from how much you spend to how the space turns out. When tasks happen in the correct sequence, you get:

• Less chance of scuffs, scratches, or damage to new finishes and appliances

• Fewer scheduling mix-ups between trades

• Less disruption for your family

• A smoother workflow and clearer updates

A clearly planned order also makes the kitchen remodeling process more predictable. Every project is a little different, but most full kitchen renovations follow a similar path. Partnering with a professional remodeler adds helpful structure, helps anticipate common pitfalls before they happen, and gives you a dedicated project manager to guide each step. On every job, a project manager oversees the details, and there is always a Frey Construction employee on site.

Pre-Project Planning and Kitchen Design

Every successful kitchen upgrade begins long before demolition. Detailed planning sets expectations, helps you achieve your vision, and brings structure to the kitchen remodeling checklist. Key steps for kitchen renovation planning include:

• Clarify your needs and priorities: Think about how you cook and entertain, what isn’t working, what’s on your wish list, and any layout or storage changes you want.

• Set the scope and budget: Map out a realistic budget that covers materials, labor, and a contingency. Decide what’s non-negotiable and what would be nice to have.

• Gather inspiration: Collect photos, visit showrooms, and review samples to point your design in the right direction.

• Choose your home remodeler: Meet with experienced kitchen contractors, then schedule an initial consultation to discuss layout options, budget, and goals.

• Design agreement: Collaborate on floor plans, cabinet selections, finishes, and fixtures. Finish design choices before moving to construction to avoid delays.

Tip: Lock in all major design details, including layout, cabinetry, and appliance types, before any demolition begins. Solid planning at this stage reduces interruptions and confusion during the kitchen remodeling process.

The Step-by-Step Kitchen Remodel Order

In what order do you remodel a kitchen for the best results? Below is the typical, logical order from kitchen demo to the finishing touches: 

1. Protect the Rest of Your Home

Before starting, safeguard neighboring spaces from dust, debris, and potential wear. This typically includes:

Installing temporary barriers or plastic sheeting at doorways

Laying floor protection in hallways and adjacent rooms

Designating a pathway for workers

Setting up a temporary kitchenette, if possible 

2. Demolition and Removal

The remodeling truly begins here. Tasks may include:

Removing old kitchen cabinets, countertops, appliances, and backsplashes

Pulling up flooring, if it’s being replaced

Carefully removing walls if layout changes are planned

Safe disposal of debris to keep the site clean

During demolition, keeping the work zone organized allows future steps in your kitchen remodel workflow to proceed smoothly.

3. Structural Work and Utilities Rough-In

This phase addresses any needed changes to the kitchen footprint or essential systems.

Complete framing or structural changes (such as removing a wall or building an island)

Run or update wiring for outlets, lighting, and appliances

Update plumbing runs for sinks, refrigerators, and dishwashers

Address HVAC or venting needs

Local building permits and inspections are often required at this stage. Experienced remodelers like Frey Construction coordinate all trade work and make sure that all work meets local codes and regulations.

4. Walls, Insulation, and Flooring Preparation

Getting the foundational surfaces ready is important for quality results.

Add or upgrade insulation in exterior walls

Install or repair drywall, then prime for paint

Prepare subfloors as needed for new flooring

Prepping thoroughly prevents problems with cabinets, flooring, or paint finishes later.

5. Painting and Flooring Installation

With the room prepped, the finishing steps begin.

Prime and paint ceilings and walls before installing kitchen cabinets or countertops

Install new flooring next; in most kitchen remodels, flooring goes under appliances but not under cabinetry, though approaches vary based on materials and cabinetry style

Completing paint and flooring ahead of cabinetry enables cleaner finishes and a smoother kitchen remodel workflow.

6. Cabinet and Countertop Installation

This is the stage where your design truly takes shape.

Install base cabinets first, followed by wall cabinets

Laser-level and secure all cabinets, double-checking for accuracy

Once cabinetry is set, templates are made for kitchen countertops

Install countertops only after cabinets are perfectly fitted

Taking extra care at this phase protects cabinetry and supports seamless final finishes.

7. Installing Fixtures and Appliances

Now, the space comes to life with functional details.

Install sinks, faucets, garbage disposals, and hardware

Set appliances in place and connect them (refrigerator, stove, dishwasher)

Hook up specialty lighting such as under-cabinet fixtures; test all mechanicals

Coordinating carefully at this stage protects new floors and cabinetry as remaining work finishes.

8. Final Finishes and Cleanup

Wrap up your renovation and restore the space to move-in-ready standards.

Install backsplashes, trim, and touch-up paint

Caulk seams where needed

Complete a deep, professional cleaning

Conduct a final walkthrough, noting any adjustments or punch-list items

How Frey Construction Streamlines the Process

Partnering with an experienced kitchen remodeler like Frey Construction makes the entire kitchen renovation timeline more predictable and less stressful. Here is what we bring to the kitchen remodel workflow:

• Project management: One point of contact keeps the remodel organized and ensures the project stays on schedule. A dedicated project manager is assigned to each project, and a Frey employee is always present on site to oversee all work.

• Quality control: Frequent checks prevent errors, delays, or missed details.

• Problem solving: Experienced teams quickly resolve surprises like hidden plumbing or structural issues.

• Permitting expertise: Handling city permits and inspections helps projects progress smoothly.

For a proven approach with fewer surprises, work with a contractor like Frey Construction that provides a dedicated project manager for every kitchen remodel.

How to Avoid Common Kitchen Remodel Mistakes 

Even the most exciting kitchen renovation can hit snags if a few basics get overlooked. Stay on track by avoiding common mistakes like skipping permits or inspections, changing major design details after construction starts, underestimating lead times or costs for specialty materials and appliances, and starting without written plans or a solid design agreement. 

Communicate any scope changes clearly with everyone involved. Before any work begins, ask your contractor for a detailed project plan so you know exactly what to expect.

Service Area: Where to Find Local Kitchen Remodeling Experts

Frey Construction proudly provides expert kitchen remodeling services throughout Dane County and surrounding areas, including:

• Madison

• Middleton

• Waunakee

• Verona

• Sun Prairie

For a full list of communities served, visit our service area page. Our experienced team offers kitchen remodel solutions tailored to each local home.

Why Experienced Teams Deliver Better Results

With over 29 years in business, Frey Construction delivers predictable, high-quality kitchen renovations supported by in-house project management. Our team’s repeat and referral rates demonstrate strong customer satisfaction at every step.

Hundreds of area homeowners have chosen us for kitchen upgrades because we stand behind our workmanship with a 15-year warranty. We have earned “Best of Madison” for five consecutive years and maintain high marks in online reviews as proof of consistent results across the region.

Ready for a Kitchen That Works for You?

The best way to remodel a kitchen is with a structured plan, clear communication, and experienced professionals managing the project. If you’re considering a kitchen transformation, we invite you to schedule a kitchen design consultation to discuss your goals and get started.

Start Your Kitchen Remodel Consultation

Kitchen Remodel Process FAQs

How long does a typical kitchen remodel take?

Most full renovations span 6 to 10 weeks. Complexity and permit lead times can affect the final duration.

Will I need to leave my home during the remodel?

Many families stay at home but set up a temporary kitchen elsewhere in the house. Plan for some inconvenience and talk through needs with your contractor.

Who handles scheduling and permits?

A professional remodeler or project manager usually coordinates trades, orders, city permits, and inspections.

How early should I order appliances and kitchen cabinets?

It is best to finalize kitchen cabinet and appliance selections as soon as design plans are set, as lead times can be several weeks.

What comes first in a kitchen remodel: floors or cabinets?

Floors are typically installed prior to cabinetry in most remodels to achieve a clean, seamless look, but project needs or materials can affect this order.