ᐅ How long does the installation of a complete IKEA Metod kitchen usually take?

Hello everyone,

I am currently planning the installation of a complete IKEA Metod kitchen and am a bit unsure about how much time I should realistically allow for it. Specifically, I would like to know how long the assembly of a kitchen run with all cabinets, countertops, drawers, doors, and appliances usually takes when you are not a professional but reasonably handy.

Do you have any experience to share, for example with an average kitchen about 3 to 4 meters long (10 to 13 feet), including the more complex parts such as installing drawer slides or fitting the sink? I would also like to know if certain units tend to take more time or if there are typical challenges to watch out for during assembly.

I would appreciate detailed answers to better estimate the schedule. Thanks in advance!

naumilor57 schrieb:
how long does it usually take to assemble a kitchen unit with all cabinets, countertops, drawers, doors, and appliances

For a 3–4 meter (10–13 feet) kitchen, you can expect around 15–20 hours without much experience. Drawers and doors usually take a lot of time if you want to adjust everything properly. Fitting the countertops can also be time-consuming. It’s better to have electrical appliances installed separately.

naumilor57 schrieb:
Do you have any experience, for example with an average kitchen (about 3 to 4 meters long (10 to 13 feet)), including the more complex parts like installing drawer slides or fitting the sink?

Hello! I’m happy to give you a more detailed estimate. For a complete IKEA Metod kitchen of the size you described, I recommend breaking down the work into individual steps:

- Cabinet assembly: Depending on the number of units and your experience, about 6–8 hours.
- Installing drawers and doors: You can plan another 5 hours, as adjustment can take quite some time.
- Cutting and securing the countertop: If you do this yourself, expect 3–5 hours, especially if you need to adjust for walls or cutouts for the sink or stove.
- Installing the sink, faucet, and appliances: If you’re handy, around 2–4 hours; otherwise, it’s better to hire a professional.

Common challenges:
- Uneven walls or floors requiring adjustments.
- Drawer fronts that are not properly aligned.
- Missing or unclear instructions if parts don’t fit together.

My advice: Realistically plan at least two full days, spread out the tasks, and avoid doing everything in one go. This way you’ll have time for fine-tuning and avoid unnecessary stress.

LANICOLE schrieb:
My advice: realistically plan for at least two full days, spread out the work, and don’t try to do everything in one go.

That sounds reasonable, but honestly – two days is almost a luxury! Who has that much uninterrupted time nowadays?

I would say IKEA Metod is more suited for patient people without much time pressure. After all, you get state-of-the-art furniture at a low cost. But expecting to quickly assemble a complete kitchen in a weekend marathon is unrealistic.

And you definitely shouldn’t forget:

naumilor57 schrieb:
the typical stumbling blocks during assembly.

This is where it gets interesting – walls, uneven floors, ill-fitting countertops – the usual pitfalls turn the project into an adventure!

My advice: take it easy, otherwise you’ll end up standing in front of the cabinet door wondering why everything is sticking. So, make sure to really give yourself enough time.