MADE-TO-MEASURE KITCHENS
How to Accurately Measure Your Kitchen at Home
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How to Accurately Measure Your Kitchen at Home
When planning your dream kitchen with KBB for DIY, one of the most crucial steps is providing accurate measurements of your space. Incorrect measurements can often lead to issues during installation, wasted materials, and increased costs. So, to help ensure your project runs smoothly, we’ve created this easy-to-follow guide on how to measure your kitchen accurately.
By following these steps, you’ll have a clear and precise layout, allowing our team to supply you with the perfect kitchen based on your exact specifications.
What You’ll Need:
Before you begin, gather the following tools:
- A measuring tape (preferably a metal one for accuracy)
- A spirit level (to check the walls)
- Pencil and paper (or a tablet if you prefer to draw digitally)
- A ruler or straight edge
- A calculator (if needed for conversions)
Having these tools at hand will make the process much smoother and ensure you measure accurately.
Step 1: Create a Rough Sketch of Your Kitchen
Begin by drawing a rough sketch of your kitchen layout, ideally on square paper. This doesn’t need to be to scale at this stage, but it should include all key features like:
- Walls (note any that are angled)
- Doors and windows
- Radiators
- Sockets, switches, and existing plumbing
Ensure you account for everything that might impact your kitchen design, including any architectural features or obstacles that need to be worked around.
Step 2: Measure the Walls Step 2: Measure the Walls
Now that you have your sketch, it’s time to take accurate measurements of your kitchen. Start with the walls:
- Measure wall-to-wall: Begin in one corner of the room and measure the full length of each wall. Use the floor level for this measurement, as it’s typically the most accurate. Note down each wall’s length on your sketch.
- Measure multiple times: Measure each wall twice to ensure consistency. If there’s a significant difference between the two, measure again until you’re confident in the result.
- Check for straightness: Use your spirit level to check whether the walls are straight. If a wall bows or isn’t level, take note of this, as it may affect how your cabinets and worktops fit.
Step 3: Measure Doors and Windows
Next, focus on the doors and windows. Precise measurements are vital to ensure cabinets and appliances fit comfortably around these features.
- Measure door width and height: For each door, measure both the width and the height. Include the frame in your measurement and note down how far the door opens into the room.
- Measure window width and height: For windows, measure the width and height, including the sill. You’ll also want to measure from the floor to the bottom of the window. This helps determine how much space is available for cabinets below windows.
- Account for clearance: Always consider the space required for doors and windows to open fully. This ensures you won’t block any areas with appliances or cabinets.
Step 4: Measure Ceiling Height
Accurate ceiling measurements are essential, especially if you’re planning to include tall cabinets or wall-mounted units.
- Measure floor to ceiling: In multiple places, measure the distance from the floor to the ceiling. Ceilings can sometimes be uneven, so take this measurement in at least two or three locations and record the smallest value.
- Check for beams or slants: If your kitchen has any ceiling beams or slanted areas, make sure to measure and note these, as they could affect the placement of tall units.
Step 5: Measure Existing Fixtures and Fittings
Kitchens often have existing elements like radiators, pipes, and electrical sockets that must be worked around. It’s essential to measure these fixtures to avoid any clashes with new units or appliances.
- Radiators: Measure the width, height, and depth of any radiators, and note their position in the room. Include the distance from the floor to the bottom of the radiator to ensure adequate clearance for any cabinets.
- Sockets and switches: Measure the position of all electrical sockets and switches. You’ll need these measurements to plan where your appliances and other electrical items will go.
- Plumbing: If you have existing plumbing (for example, the sink or dishwasher), measure the location of these pipes, including their distance from the walls. This will be essential for positioning new sinks or appliances.
Step 6: Consider the Floor Plan
While it’s easy to focus on the walls, don’t forget the kitchen floor. If you plan to install a kitchen island or peninsula, make sure you have enough space for comfortable movement and seating.
- Check for obstructions: Look for any obstructions, such as changes in floor height or uneven surfaces, and take measurements accordingly.
- Measure the floor area: If you’re planning new flooring, measure the entire floor area. Use the measurements you’ve already taken for the room’s width and length, but if the room isn’t perfectly rectangular, be sure to measure all corners.
Step 7: Finalising Your Measurements
Once you’ve measured all areas, double-check everything. Accurate measurements are key to a smooth kitchen design process, so take the time to ensure everything adds up.
- Check proportions: Look at your sketch and make sure the proportions feel correct. If something seems off, go back and measure again.
- Label everything clearly: Make sure each measurement is clearly labelled on your drawing. If there’s something unusual about a feature (like a sloping ceiling or angled wall), make a note of this too.
Step 8: Submit Your Measurements to KBB for DIY
Once you’ve measured all areas, double-check everything. Accurate With your measurements complete, you’re ready to submit them to KBB for DIY. We’ll use these precise details to help you design a kitchen that fits perfectly into your space.
Tips for Accurate Kitchen Measurements
- Be precise: Round measurements to the nearest millimetre, not centimetre, to ensure maximum accuracy.
- Take your time: Rushing through measurements can lead to mistakes. Ensure you measure everything twice and compare.
- Use a reliable tape measure: Metal measuring tapes are usually more accurate than fabric ones, so make sure you’re using a reliable tool.
- Get a second opinion: If possible, ask someone else to check your measurements. A second pair of eyes will often spot something you might have missed.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Overlooking small details: Things like skirting boards, pipes, and plug sockets may seem small but can cause big problems if ignored.
- Assuming walls are straight: Always use a spirit level to check for bowing or sloping walls, as these can affect the fit of your cabinets.
- Not accounting for clearance: Remember that doors and drawers need space to open fully. Avoid placing units too close to obstacles.
Ready to Start Your Kitchen Project?
By taking the time to measure your kitchen accurately, you’ll ensure a smooth and successful project. At KBB for DIY, we’re here to help you at every step of the way. Once you’ve completed your measurements, feel free to contact us for expert advice on how to turn those numbers into the kitchen of your dreams.
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