Holiday hosting in Windsor-Essex puts your kitchen in the spotlight. If you’re dreaming of a refreshed space for December dinners and cozy New Year’s brunches, understanding a realistic kitchen renovation timeline is essential. As a family-operated design-build contractor in Windsor, ON, Homestyle Renovations streamlines planning, permits, and installation so your project stays on track—without sacrificing craftsmanship or style.

How long does a kitchen remodel take in Ontario?

Timelines depend on scope, selections, and permit needs. As a Windsor kitchen contractor, we typically see:

Cosmetic refresh (paint, lighting, faucet, backsplash): 1–3 weeks

Pull-and-replace (new cabinets, counters, appliances, minor electrical/plumbing): 4–6 weeks

Custom redesign (layout changes, structural work, extensive upgrades): 8–12+ weeks

If you need a holiday-ready upgrade, a targeted refresh or pull-and-replace is the most realistic path for December. Full custom kitchens are ideal to plan now for completion in January–February, when lead times and trade schedules often improve.

Phase-by-phase kitchen renovation timeline in Windsor-Essex

Design and selections: 1–3 weeks. Isabelle leads design, helps you finalize finishes, and confirms appliance specs to avoid delays.

Permits (if needed): 1–3 weeks. Structural changes and new circuits typically require building and ESA electrical permits in Ontario.

Ordering and lead times: Stock/semi-custom cabinets can range 2–10 weeks; quartz counters require cabinet install before templating; appliances vary based on availability.

Demolition and prep: 1–3 days. Dust control and site protection keep your home clean and safe.

Rough-in electrical and plumbing: 2–5 days. Includes new lighting layouts, circuits, and plumbing reconfiguration as needed.

Inspections: 1–3 days, schedule-dependent. We coordinate with local inspectors in Windsor, LaSalle, Tecumseh, and surrounding municipalities.

Flooring and leveling: 1–3 days. Proper subfloor prep ensures lasting results.

Cabinet installation: 2–5 days. Precision setting and scribing are key for clean lines.

Countertop templating and install: 7–14 business days after cabinet install for fabrication and fit.

Backsplash, trim, and paint: 2–4 days. Final finishes bring the design together.

Final plumbing/electrical fixtures and punch list: 1–3 days. Kris oversees quality checks and completion.

What can slow a kitchen renovation locally?

Winter work is primarily indoors, but a few factors can affect momentum. Holiday closures for suppliers and inspectors can stretch timelines by several days. Backordered appliances, special-order cabinet finishes, or last-minute change orders are common culprits. In older Windsor homes, hidden conditions—unleveled floors, outdated wiring, or venting conflicts—may require corrective work. We minimize surprises with thorough pre-construction assessments and permit-ready drawings.

How to speed up your kitchen remodel without cutting corners

Finalize selections early: Lock cabinets, counters, tile, and appliances before demolition.

Choose in-stock or quick-ship products: Consider readily available door styles and hardware.

Keep the layout similar: Pull-and-replace scopes move faster than full reconfigurations.

Approve drawings promptly: Permit submissions can’t start without signed plans.

Plan countertop timing: Quartz requires cabinet install before templating—book both dates early.

Set a realistic start: Avoid starting just before supplier or inspection blackouts.

Prepare a temporary kitchen: A microwave and hot plate reduce stress and decision delays.

Holiday-ready options if time is tight

Even if a full renovation won’t fit before Christmas, targeted upgrades can deliver a big visual impact and better workflow fast:

New faucet, sink, and garbage disposal

Under-cabinet LED lighting for brighter prep zones

Backsplash replacement and fresh paint

Hardware swap and soft-close hinge retrofits

Pantry organization and rollout trays

Why Windsor-Essex homeowners choose Homestyle Renovations

With Kris as project manager and Isabelle leading design, our team coordinates trades, inspections, and deliveries to keep your kitchen renovation on schedule. We serve Windsor, Lakeshore, LaSalle, Tecumseh, Amherstburg, Kingsville, Leamington, Belle River, Harrow, and McGregor—combining meticulous planning, clear communication, and high-caliber craftsmanship that lasts well beyond the holidays.

Ready to plan your timeline?



Whether you need a December refresh or a January–February full remodel, Homestyle Renovations will build a schedule that fits your goals and budget. Contact our Windsor team for a kitchen renovation consultation, detailed timeline, and transparent pricing—so your next holiday season is hosted in a kitchen you love.