How long does the cabinet installation phase usually take in an HDB kitchen renovation?
Kitchen cabinet white and wood combination
Kitchen renovation in an HDB flat is a huge remodelling venture and thus needs prudent planning as well as realistic expectations. There are a number of phases that are involved but the installation of the cabinets plays an important role in functionality as well as design.
However, how long does this section of an HDB kitchen renovation in Singapore tend to take? Knowing the timeline and the factors that affect it can help you avoid expensive delays and stay on schedule.
Typical Timeline for Cabinet Installation
In a standard HDB kitchen, the cabinet installation usually takes between 2 to 5 working days. This period includes a variety of important tasks such as delivery of cabinets, base and wall units fitting, alignment checks, and final touch ups. In most cases installation is done efficiently, where all the components are ready and the kitchen is prepared.
This however can vary a little bit based on the size of your renovation and how customised your renovation is going to be. A straightforward installation of prefabricated pieces might only take up to three days, but complex floor plans or bespoke cabinets could make it almost a week.
Factors That Affect Installation Duration
Not all HDB kitchen renovations are created equal. The time it takes to install cabinets depends on a number of specific factors:
1. Custom vs. Prefabricated Cabinets
Custom cabinetry requires more precision and effort during installation. Since they are made to order, they often come with extra fittings or non-standard dimensions that take longer to adjust and install.
2. Kitchen Size and Layout
A compact kitchen with standard wall alignment is easier and faster to work on than a spacious kitchen with awkward corners or uneven surfaces. L-shaped or U-shaped kitchens, for example, may require more complex measurements and fittings.
3. Material Availability and Delivery
Delays in material delivery can cause setbacks even before installation begins. It’s best to confirm with your contractor or supplier that all cabinetry, hinges, handles, and accessories are ready on-site before the installation team arrives.
4. Contractor Scheduling and Workforce Availability
Installation can be delayed if your contractor is managing multiple jobs or if there’s a shortage of experienced installers. Hiring a dedicated team for your kitchen cabinet renovation in Singapore helps reduce potential downtime.
5. Site Readiness
Cabinet installation usually comes after plumbing, tiling, and electrical works. If your renovation site isn’t fully prepared, installers may be forced to wait, which could disrupt your entire schedule.
How Cabinet Installation Fits Into the Overall Renovation
Cabinet installation is typically scheduled during the final third of the HDB kitchen renovation timeline. Before cabinets go in, the contractor will complete major structural work, tiling, and painting. It’s critical to get the prep work right because improperly laid flooring or incomplete wiring can delay installation.
After the cabinets are installed, finishing touches like countertops, backsplashes, sinks, and appliance placements follow. Some countertop materials (like quartz or solid surface) may need to be measured only after the base cabinets are in place, which adds a few more days to your overall schedule.
In a well-coordinated HDB kitchen renovation in Singapore, the cabinet installation serves as a transition between construction and the final cosmetic detailing.
Tips to Ensure a Smooth Cabinet Installation
A male cabinet installer in the kitchen
To keep your renovation project on track, follow these useful tips:
- Finalise cabinet designs and dimensions early: This avoids last-minute changes and misalignment issues.
- Hire experienced contractors: Look for renovation firms with a proven track record in kitchen cabinet renovation in Singapore.
- Confirm delivery timelines: Make sure your materials are delivered and checked for defects before the installation date.
- Stay involved during installation: Being on-site (or at least contactable) during this phase helps you address any issues or decisions on the spot.
Conclusion
On average, the cabinet installation phase in an HDB kitchen renovation takes between 2 to 5 days, but that can vary based on the size of your kitchen, the complexity of the design, and the readiness of your renovation site. By planning ahead, working with skilled contractors, and confirming all materials beforehand, you can keep your kitchen cabinet renovation in Singapore running smoothly.
Whether you’re doing a full overhaul or a partial upgrade, understanding the installation timeline is key to managing your HDB kitchen renovation in Singapore efficiently. The more prepared you are, the faster you’ll be able to enjoy your newly transformed cooking space.
