DIY Supermarket

Planning the fitting of a kitchen before starting is extremely important because it helps to avoid later lack of funds, mistakes in measurements and aesthetic clashes (in colour, shapes or furniture, for example). Even when done on a fully DIY basis, it is important to get the estimated cost of fitting a kitchen correct right from the start, so that work can continue without interruption.

The costliest aspects of fitting a kitchen are likely to be the appliances and any decoration or furniture. Typical kitchen appliances are ovens, taps and sinks, fridges and freezers, and perhaps dishwashers and washing machines. Although the cost of such appliances continues to fall over the long-term, having a fully functional kitchen depends on having the budget fully accounted for from the start.

Another typical cost is any professional help that may be needed to install plumbing or any electrical work. Get a quotation from different plumbers and electricians before they start work, and their estimate for the length of time needed to finish the job. Although some plumbers and electricians can supply the material they are to work with, such as sinks, taps and electrical sockets, it may be more cost-effective to purchase these separately in a DIY store or online.

Asking an architect’s help in designing a kitchen can be highly useful, though potentially expensive.

A common mistake is to leave out the cost of the tools needed, such as hammers, screws and nails, a workbench, paint and brushes.