To plan your new kitchen layout start by taking measurements of the kitchen area, when you have finished it is worthwhile double checking your measurements to save a lot of future problems.
These are some points to consider with your layout :-
- The sink unit is usually positioned under a window.
- Sink units and hobs should not be positioned too near or on a joint in a worktop.
- Washing machines and dishwashers should ideally be positioned near the sink as this will reduce the amount of plumbing required.
- Hobs require space on either side for pan handles.
- Extraction units should be installed either near, or preferably on, an outside wall.
- Don’t ‘box in’ any gas appliances as they require good airflow for correct operation and safety.
- Are the existing services in suitable positions for your new kitchen layout, i.e. sockets and switches should not be positioned above hobs or cookers.
- Will the new kitchen be user friendly and practical.
- Wall units and the base units below them, should where possible, be the same width, so doors and handles line up.
- Sockets should be around 150mm from the finished worktop to allow room for the plug top flex, they can of course go higher, if you know the size of tiles you are going to use, it is in my opinion easier to tile if the socket(s) are on the tile line.
Before you carry out any electrical work in the home check out the building regulations on the Government or local authority website specifically the Part P regulations and Electrical safety in the home. Although I am aware of the current rules it is worth reading the latest regulations as they have been updated in the past.
Any gas work will require a Gas Safe registered plumber / engineer.
When you have made a list of the units required for the kitchen don’t forget all the extras such as:
- Cornice
- Pelmet
- Plinth
- Corner post
- Jointing kit with coloured jointing compound
- Water waste kit
- Decorative clad end panels to match the doors, including maybe an extra one to use for filling any gaps, any appliance doors, etc
Special offers and deals on home and kitchen goods on Amazon - check them out, grab a bargain
(Back to main page :- Fitting a kitchen)
Previous
Fitting a New Kitchen - Part 1
What you will Need
Next
Fitting a New Kitchen - Part 3
Preparation
Fitting a New Kitchen - Part 4
Where to Start
Fitting a New Kitchen - Part 5
Worktops
Fitting a New Kitchen - Part 6
Finishing the Project
