Short answer: 4-8 weeks of fabrication plus 1-2 weeks of installation — about 6-10 weeks total from design approval to a finished kitchen.
A full custom cabinet project takes 4–8 weeks from signed contract to finished kitchen. Here's what actually happens each week, so you know what to expect — and when your choices matter. Week 1 — Design & Measure Your pro visits for an on-site measurement, discusses layout, and walks you through material selection. In Birmingham's Alabama humidity, that means kiln-dried hardwoods and moisture-resistant finishes. You sign a contract with an itemized quote and a written timeline. Week 2 — Order & Fabrication Begins Wood is selected and milled. Drawer boxes start with dovetail joinery; door and frame components are cut. If you're refacing instead, this is the week your new doors and drawer fronts are ordered — the whole project wraps in 3–5 days. Weeks 3–5 — Fabrication & Finishing Cabinets are assembled, sanded, and finished (stain or paint) in a controlled shop environment. This is when you approve finishes, choose hardware, and schedule countertop templating. Week 6 — Install Prep Your home is protected: floors covered, work areas sealed. Old doors and hardware are removed if refacing; measurements are double-checked before delivery. Weeks 7–8 — Installation & Punch List Boxes go in, doors and drawer fronts hang, soft-close hardware is adjusted, and countertops tie in. Your pro walks the finished space with you and resolves any punch-list items before handover. Planning tip: Birmingham homeowners who want a spring kitchen order in winter — cabinet makers are less booked, timelines compress, and hardwood acclimates before the humidity spike. Get your timeline in writing: (205) 574-3205 or the form below matches you with up to 3 pre-vetted pros within one business day.
Download the 8-Weeks to Heirloom Cabinetry Deck (PDF)
These are preliminary estimates. Actual quotes vary by site conditions. Get a free personalized estimate .
