Self-fitted kitchens are often undercooked
The vast majority of tradespeaople in Ireland say they’ve had to step in to fix a botched DIY fitted kitchen according to new research.
A survey carried out by kitchen and appliance outlet The Panelling Centre, asked 100 tradespeople and 750 homeowners about their attitudes towards DIY kitchen fitting versus a professional job.
Of tradespeople surveyed, 40% said only some kitchens fitted by homeowners themselves adhere to the correct safety standards.
According to poll results, while 42% of homeowners who have either installed a kitchen themselves or know someone who has, believe the job was done successfully, the professionals disagree. Taking incorrect measurements (48%) and not consulting a professional for layout/design guidance (42%) are, according to tradespeople, the most common mistakes homeowners make when attempting to fit a kitchen themselves.
Many homeowners also admit to underestimating key parts of the project with measurements (50%), plumbing (47%), and electrical work (44%) the aspects of a kitchen fit that homeowners have misjudged.
Given that the kitchen is the heart of the home for many, it’s perhaps no surprise then, that 66% of homeowners polled said they’d rather leave a kitchen fit to the professionals, calling on a tradesperson to do the job instead.
Almost half (48%) of tradespeople said homeowners agreed that hiring a professional saves time, with 44% claiming it helps to avoid mistakes, and 44% saying it helps to make sure that electrical and plumbing are installed safely.
Commenting on the research findings, Gary Higgins, General Manager at The Panelling Centre said: “We love a bit of DIY spirit, but kitchens are one place where ambition can sometimes exceed ability.
“The research reveals that most tradespeople have been called in to keep a homeowner’s DIY dream alive, and we’ve heard they’ve seen everything, from upside-down cabinets, to sinks with no plumbing!” he added.
Achieving a picture perfect, fitted kitchen that’s ready to show off is something all homeowners want, and is a whole lot easier with experts by your side. A kitchen supplier, such as The Panelling Centre, is where 71% of homeowners turn to for a recommended tradesperson to handle the job.
“The Panelling Centre’s expert team is available to guide homeowners through this and more, including layout, design advice, and picking the perfect appliances to complete your dream kitchen,” concluded Mr Higgins.