Key Takeaways
- A DIY kitchen fitting can take up to 6 weeks or longer compared to 3-4 weeks for a professional installation.
- Choosing DIY over professional installation will save £1750 in labour costs on average.
- Unless you are qualified it is strongly advised to leave electrical and plumbing work in the hands of professional electricians and plumbers.
How Long Does it Take to Fit a Kitchen From Start To Finish?
Once your kitchen fitters step into the picture, the actual fitting process would likely be completed in roughly three to four weeks, given a straightforward installation scenario with no unexpected complications.
Taking into consideration the design phase of the kitchen, you might add an additional six to eight weeks to the timeline.
Let’s delve deeper into the detailed stages of fitting a new kitchen.
Design & Preparation
While not always factored into the kitchen fitting duration, thorough preparation is a significant precursor to efficiency.
A meticulous approach to this stage can expedite the installation, while any oversights may inadvertently elongate the process.
This preparatory phase entails selecting your desired kitchen layout and elements such as cabinets, appliances, worktops, and flooring.
Additionally, it’s crucial to evaluate the room’s structure: Are there any significant renovations required? Are structural changes like wall removal on the cards?
Conveying such major decisions to your fitters is essential.
They need a comprehensive understanding of your vision to ensure accurate timelines and smooth execution.
An essential step many professional services offer a pre-fit survey, allowing fitters to assess measurements, plumbing, and electrical configurations without drastic interventions.
However, unforeseen issues might emerge later, warranting possible adjustments in the timeline.
The Kitchen Fitting Process
Removal of the Old Kitchen
Time: 1 – 2 days
The commencement of the kitchen fitting process often involves dismantling the existing kitchen, typically completed within a day.
But remember, before the professionals step in, you should have cleared out all personal belongings from the kitchen.
Make sure you dedicate ample time for this, as it might be more time-consuming than first anticipated.
First-Fix
Time: 2 – 3 days
This foundational stage focuses on the arrangement of essential utilities such as electrical wiring and plumbing.
On average, this phase is wrapped up within two to three days, but complexities in plumbing alterations might extend this.
Walls
Time: 1 – 3 days
Wall-related tasks, from plastering to significant modifications, are tackled at this juncture.
Minor plastering jobs span one to three days, factoring in drying time.
However, substantial structural changes will certainly elongate this phase.
Adding a Floor
Time: 1 – 5 days
The flooring phase duration varies based on the material and size of the kitchen.
Some flooring installations occur post-cabinet fitting, offering a tailored fit and potentially cost savings.
The Main Fitting
Time: 3 – 5 days (basic countertops) / up to 2 weeks (specialised countertops)
The pivotal stage of fitting sees the introduction of cabinets, worktops, sinks, and hobs.
Your choice of countertop can drastically impact this timeline: while laminate or wooden counters are promptly installed, stone or quartz countertops necessitate precise templating, extending the duration by potentially up to two weeks or more.
Final Fix
Time: 1 – 2 days
This phase heralds the return of the plumber and electrician to finalise installations. This usually spans one to two days, depending on the kitchen’s size and layout.
Tiling and Decorating
Time: 1 – 3 days
This aesthetic phase involves the application of splashbacks, tiling, and painting, lending the kitchen its final touch.
Specialised splashbacks could add up to a week to this duration. How good are you with a brush or a roller?
Finishing
Time: 1 – 2 days
A thorough assessment of the entire kitchen setup identifies and rectifies any lingering issues.
Hopefully there shouldn’t be too many so you’ll typically be done with this phase within a couple of days at most.
What are the Most Important Factors to Consider When Fitting a Kitchen?
The question of how long does it take to fit a new kitchen will never provide a fixed answer.
Numerous factors weigh in on this estimation, but the most common and significant elements are:
- Kitchen size
- Structural modifications
- Extensive electrical or plumbing work
- Flooring choices
- Countertop materials
- Distinctive design facets
Proper planning coupled with a cooperative spirit can streamline the kitchen fitting process.
Given the potential disruptions, it might be wise to schedule this during a holiday, allowing you to return to a gleaming new kitchen.
FAQs
How can I ensure minimal disruptions during the kitchen fitting process?
Communication is key. Regularly engage with your contractors and maintain an open line of dialogue.
This ensures that you’re aware of any potential delays or issues.
Additionally, try to schedule the kitchen fitting during a period when household activities are minimal or when you can make alternate arrangements for essential kitchen tasks.
What if I want to incorporate smart home technology into my kitchen?
If you’re looking to integrate smart home devices or systems, discuss this with your fitters at the design and preparation stage.
This might affect the electrical wiring and setup, potentially extending the “First-Fix” duration.
Planning for this in advance ensures seamless integration of smart technology.
Are there any hidden costs I should be aware of during the kitchen fitting process?
The primary costs will be those discussed with your fitters and contractors during the planning phase.
However, unforeseen complications, like unexpected plumbing issues or structural alterations, might introduce additional costs.
It’s always wise to set aside a contingency budget to account for such unexpected expenses.
Conclusion
Embarking on a kitchen fitting journey is both exciting and intricate.
By understanding the multifaceted stages and factors involved, homeowners can set realistic expectations and navigate the process more seamlessly.
While the primary focus remains on design and functionality, the importance of efficient planning, timely decision-making, and open communication cannot be overstressed.
Integrating these elements ensures not just a beautifully fitted kitchen but also a rewarding experience throughout its creation.
If you are interested in fitting a new kitchen in your home and looking for some guidance from a reputable source please get in touch.
