You've decided to take the plunge and update that tired, most over used room in your home. Yes, it can no longer wait, it's time to replace the kitchen. So you've scoured the internet, read the brochures and chatted with friends and colleagues. Now you find yourself outside the kitchen supplier still with that nagging feeling: "What should I ask?"
Here are a few tips on what to do when you first turn up.
Before you do go, research the facts. There is no substitute for speaking with a little knowledge and it will allow you to discuss, extend and update your ideas with ease. Forewarned is forearmed, and that's certainly true with kitchens.
Check the credentials of the kitchen supplier. Don't look at the adverts or the glossy pictures as they are easy to obtain and produce. No, ask for contact details of previous customers. The adverts are all well and good but be swayed by previous work. A good kitchen supplier will be actively pushing this and may even hold coffee mornings at former customer kitchens to "show off" what they can do.
Discuss the quality! For longevity always go for quality cabinets and construction. Flat packs and hardboard may look good for a month or two but your kitchen should last you 10-20 years! But how do you tell? Well discuss the kitchen manufacturer with your supplier and have a good "poke" about the sample cabinets. A reputable supplier will be impressed if you start looking at the quality of construction before you look at the gloss!
Drawers should always be metal-sided with a solid base and back. These will take a lot of abuse over the life of kitchen so strong drawers are a must. For instance Nobilia profi+ drawers at Kitchen Solutions Kent are rated up to 70kg! Over the top? Maybe, but, there again, we can't remember a customer calling for a replacement drawer!
Be personal! Contact your suppliers and work with them. Their job is to turn your ideas into reality so you'll need to visit them often. A good kitchen cannot be designed in a single quick session so accept that many visits and lots of dialogue is a must.
If installation is included in your order you can expect to withhold a percentage until everything is complete. This will ensure that any missing items will be fitted before final payment is made. If a company disagrees with this – just don’t use them!
Speak to your kitchen fitter! You'll need to discuss the time, date and key arrangements with them before they get to work. And ensure they know what "success is" and raise concerns with the fitter as they appear, not at completion.
Still unsure? Come and start the journey at Kitchen Solutions Kent where we'll be more than happy to make you a coffee and discuss kitchens to your hearts content.
