Phase 1: Scope and Field Evaluation
The team measures the room and identifies walls, windows, doors, ceilings, soffits, appliances, plumbing, electrical service, ventilation, radiators, and floor conditions. In older Chicago homes, out-of-square walls and uneven floors must be anticipated rather than discovered after cabinets arrive.
Phase 2: Layout and Selections
The owner reviews cabinet layout, door style, finish, hardware, internal storage, appliance specifications, exposed panels, trim, and countertop implications. Final approval should resolve clearances for doors and drawers, appliance openings, island circulation, and utility locations.
Changes after approval can reset ordering or manufacturing time.
Phase 3: Ordering or Fabrication
Lead time varies by stock availability, cabinet line, finish, modifications, and fully custom fabrication. Delivery estimates are not guaranteed installation dates. The project schedule should allow for receiving, inspecting, and resolving damaged or missing components.
Phase 4: Room Preparation
Existing cabinets are removed and the team completes necessary framing, wall, floor, plumbing, electrical, and ventilation work. Rough inspections may be required before walls close. The room must match the approved cabinet plan.
Phase 5: Cabinet Installation
Installers establish level reference lines, set and secure cabinet runs, align doors and drawers, fit fillers and panels, and complete islands and tall units. Careful leveling matters because errors affect countertops, tile, appliances, and sight lines.
Phase 6: Countertops and Connections
Stone and other fabricated countertops are usually templated after base cabinets are permanently installed. Fabrication then occurs off-site before installation. Sinks, faucets, appliances, lighting, backsplash, and finish electrical or plumbing work follow in the proper sequence.
Phase 7: Adjustments and Punch-List
Final work can include crown and light rail, toe kicks, touch-ups, hardware, drawer adjustment, appliance panels, caulk, and replacement of any damaged component. Do not treat substantial missing trim or misaligned doors as an unavoidable “punch-list” condition.
Preventing Schedule Problems
- Finalize appliance specifications before cabinet approval.
- Confirm who owns the final field measurement.
- Do not demolish too early when lead times are uncertain.
- Inspect the delivery before installers mobilize.
- Coordinate countertop, backsplash, plumbing, and electrical trades in advance.
- Put change approvals and schedule consequences in writing.
Budget Construction Company coordinates cabinetry with complete kitchen, bathroom, mudroom, office, and built-in renovation work. Explore custom cabinets and built-ins in Chicago or request a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does cabinet installation itself take?
It depends on cabinet count, room complexity, trim, islands, site conditions, and whether missing or damaged components are discovered. The installation window is only one part of the overall schedule.
Why are countertops measured after cabinets are installed?
Fabricators need the actual installed cabinet positions, wall conditions, sink details, and overhang requirements to create an accurate template.
Should appliances be selected before cabinets?
Yes. Exact appliance specifications affect openings, panels, ventilation, electrical and plumbing locations, and adjacent clearances.
Reviewed by the Budget Construction Company Editorial Team
Budget Construction Company has served Chicago homeowners since 1976. Project costs and requirements vary by property, scope, and municipality.