Kitchen Installation Exeter: How Long Does It Take?

Planning a kitchen installation in Exeter? One of the most common questions we hear from homeowners is: “How long will my kitchen installation take?” Whether you’ve finally decided it’s time to replace that old, dull kitchen or you’re planning a complete home renovation, understanding the timeline and FAQs helps you prepare for the transformation ahead.

As experienced Exeter kitchen fitters, we’ve completed hundreds of kitchen installations of all sizes and complexities. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what to expect during your kitchen installation timeline, from initial planning to the finishing touches.

Kitchen Installation Timeline: What To Expect

For most installations in Exeter, a full kitchen fit takes around three to four weeks, although the exact duration can vary depending on your project’s details and the size of space. To give you a better idea, here’s a breakdown of the process step by step.

Planning and design phase

Before any physical work begins, proper planning is essential for a successful kitchen installation. This initial phase typically takes 1-2 weeks, depending on design complexity and involves consultation meetings, design finalisation, material selection, and supplier coordination. At Cowley’s & Maintenance, we offer:

• Initial consultation and measurements – Our team visits your home to assess the space and your requirements
• Design discussions – We help you select units, tiles, and flooring to match your style
• Supplier coordination – Ordering from major suppliers like Howdens, Wickes, B&Q, or Magnet
• Building regulations approval (if required for structural changes)

 

Key Tip: Spending sufficient time in this phase prevents delays later. Ensuring your design is finalised and materials are ordered well in advance of the fitting date keeps your project on track.

Strip out and preparation

The kitchen installation process begins with removing your old kitchen. The timeline is normally 2-3 days for average-sized kitchens. This involves:

• Complete strip out of existing units, worktops, and appliances
• Electrical and plumbing preparation – Updating services for the new layout
• Wall preparation – Any necessary re-plastering or repairs
• Floor preparation – Ensuring level surfaces for installation

Main installation phase

This is where your new kitchen really takes shape, and it takes around five to 10 days, depending on kitchen size and complexity:
Days 1-3: Core installation

• Installing base units and wall cabinets
• Fitting worktops and breakfast bars
• Initial plumbing and electrical connections

Days 4-6: Finishing work

• Tiling walls and splashbacks
• Installing doors, drawers, and hardware
• Connecting appliances

Days 7-10: Final details

• Painting and decorating touches
• Installing lighting and accessories
• Final quality checks and adjustments

What Impacts Your Kitchen Installation Timing?

Every kitchen installation is different, and several factors can influence how long the process takes from start to finish. Understanding these elements in advance can help you plan more effectively and avoid unexpected delays. Here are some of the key things that can impact your kitchen installation timeline:

• Kitchen size: Larger kitchens take longer
• Design complexity: Islands, integrated lighting, and bespoke cabinetry may slow things down
• Materials used: Granite or quartz worktops need templating, which often adds extra time
• Existing space condition: Hidden wiring or plumbing issues may need fixing
• Multiple tradespeople: Coordinating electricians, plumbers, and carpenters
• Material delivery: Delays in appliance or cabinet delivery
• DIY vs. professional installation: DIY installs often take longer due to inexperience

Our Recent Kitchen Project

We regularly refit kitchens in Exeter. Sometimes we build entirely new ones. So, whatever your situation, our experienced Devon builders can help. You can see a previous kitchen refurbishment project of ours below.

We offer a full service, so from start to finish, you can trust in quality installations with Cowley’s Exeter kitchen fitters rather than having to bounce between companies.

Not only does refurbishing (or perhaps expanding) your kitchen add exponential value to your home, it also generally makes your life more enjoyable. There’s nothing more stressful than cooking in what feels like a cramped kitchen. Make it larger, make yourself happier. Take a look at our top 5 tiling ideas for kitchens & bathrooms for more information.

Planning Your Kitchen Installation Timeline With Cowley’s Building & Maintenance

If you’re hoping to enjoy a brand-new kitchen in time for Christmas, now is the perfect time to get started. Beginning your kitchen installation in summer allows sufficient time for planning, fitting, and final touches before the busy festive period. Here are essential preparation tips to get your project started:

• Set up temporary kitchen: Plan how you’ll cook during installation
• Clear the space: Remove all items from the existing kitchen
• Communicate with neighbours: Let them know about potential noise/disruption
• Plan for deliveries: Ensure clear access for materials and units

Read our blog “What to ask when booking your Exeter kitchen fitters?”

Ready To Discuss Your Kitchen Transformation With Us?

Contact us on 01392 460 783 or email at mail@cowleysexeter.co.uk. We’ll help you plan your perfect kitchen transformation. Our experienced team will assess your space, discuss your requirements, and provide a realistic timeline for your project.