But one area it definitely doesn’t pay to skimp on is kitchen fitting. According to research from Selco Builders Warehouse, around 50% of trade call-out jobs are to fix DIY attempts that have gone wrong. Around 33% of these are for failed kitchen installations.
According to Selco marketing director Carine Jessamine:
“DIY is commonplace, but it’s not easy! There seems to be a growing interest in home renovation projects on social media at the moment, and many across the nation are trying their hand at various DIY projects in their homes.
“While smaller and less complicated projects can be quite easy and even satisfying to complete, our study has shown Brits often have to call out the professionals to fix home renovations or repairs they have tried but not succeeded at. This can not only turn out to be more expensive but could also mean longer delays to get your pipework fixed or your kitchen installed.
“Complicated renovations or installations could also be quite tricky, and dangerous to those who don’t have the correct skills, so sometimes, it’s best to just leave it to the professionals!”
What can go wrong with DIY kitchen fitting?
Unfortunately, there’s a long list of things that can go awry during a DIY kitchen installation job. Here are just a few of the most common problems we’ve seen (or been called in to fix)
- Inaccurate measurements, so components don’t fit or need to be adjusted
- Gaps between units and the wall
- Improperly joined worktops
- Misaligned cabinets and doors
- Doors and drawers which collide when opened – usually because they’ve been installed the wrong way
- Improperly assembled cabinets
- Electrical sockets positioned too close to the worktop
- Defects and damage to cabinets or worktops
- Failure to properly plan for electrical or plumbing work.
DIY can also be dangerous, especially if you’re working with power tools. According to DIY Fix It, there are around 600 household accidents a day caused by botched home improvement jobs.
So, should I fit my own kitchen?
Unless you’re a skilled tradesperson, it’s just not worth the risk. Professional kitchen fitting will add some extra cost to your project, but it’s well worth it. Getting a great quality finish means your kitchen will last for longer, and you’ll get more enjoyment out of it. You won’t need to go back and fix mistakes, or be annoyed by snagging problems every day.
After all, you’ve already spent money on a great-looking kitchen, so it’d be a real shame to spoil it with low-quality fitting.
Find out more about expert kitchen fitting by getting in touch with our experienced team here at A&J Kitchens. We have over 20 years’ experience in part and full installations, for kitchens of all kinds. So whatever the project, we can provide the ideal fitting solution.
Contact our Manchester kitchen fitters on 01942 873781 or email [email protected].