Common Kitchen Installation Mistakes — and How to Avoid Them
After fitting hundreds of kitchens across Bolton and Manchester, we have seen the same mistakes come up time and again. Here are the most common — and how to avoid them.
A kitchen renovation is a significant project, and the same mistakes come up repeatedly. Here are the most common issues we see — and how to avoid them in your own project.
1. Not planning storage carefully enough. The most common complaint after a kitchen renovation is that there is not enough storage. Before finalising the design, think carefully about what you need to store and where. Tall larder units, deep drawer packs and corner solutions can significantly increase storage capacity without increasing the footprint of the kitchen.
2. Choosing appliances after the kitchen is designed. Appliance sizes vary, and built-in appliances need to be specified before the housing units are ordered. If you choose your oven after the units are made, you may find it does not fit the housing correctly. Always confirm appliance dimensions before finalising the design.
3. Underestimating the importance of lighting. Kitchen lighting is often an afterthought, but it has a significant impact on how the kitchen looks and functions. Under-cabinet lighting illuminates the worktop for food preparation. Pendant lights over an island or breakfast bar add atmosphere. Plan the lighting circuit before the units are fitted.
4. Ignoring the work triangle. The work triangle — the relationship between the hob, sink and fridge — is a fundamental principle of kitchen design. A layout where these three elements are too far apart, or where the routes between them are obstructed, will feel inefficient to use every day.
5. Choosing the wrong worktop for the way you cook. A beautiful marble-effect quartz worktop looks stunning but will show every scratch if you are in the habit of cutting directly on the surface. A solid wood worktop is warm and characterful but requires regular maintenance. Choose a worktop that suits your actual cooking habits, not just the one that looks best in the showroom.
6. Not getting a detailed written quote. A vague quote that does not separate labour from materials, or that excludes items like tiling, flooring or appliance installation, will almost always result in unexpected additional costs. Always insist on a detailed written quote before work begins.
IK Master Build Ltd provide detailed written quotes and guide you through the design process to help you avoid these common mistakes. Call 07402 059 555 for a free consultation.