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do howdens fit kitchens

do howdens fit kitchens

3 min read 27-11-2024
do howdens fit kitchens

Do Howdens Fit Kitchens? A Comprehensive Guide

Howdens Joinery is a popular choice for kitchen renovations in the UK, offering a wide range of styles and price points. But a crucial question for prospective customers is: do Howdens kitchens actually fit well? The answer, as with many things, is nuanced. This article will delve into the factors affecting Howdens kitchen fit, drawing on practical experience and information, and referencing relevant research where appropriate (while acknowledging that direct, peer-reviewed scientific articles on Howdens kitchen fit are unlikely to exist!). We'll explore the pros, cons, and what you need to know before committing to a Howdens kitchen.

Understanding the Howdens Model:

Howdens operates on a trade-only basis, meaning you can't walk in off the street and buy a kitchen. You typically work with a kitchen fitter who sources the units from Howdens. This business model can impact the overall fit and finish. While Howdens provides the components, the accuracy of the installation heavily relies on the skill and experience of the fitter. This is a critical point often overlooked.

Factors Affecting Howdens Kitchen Fit:

Several factors determine how well a Howdens kitchen fits:

  • Accuracy of Measurements: This is paramount. Inaccurate measurements by the fitter, regardless of the quality of the cabinets, will result in a poorly fitting kitchen. This emphasizes the importance of choosing an experienced and reputable fitter. A poorly measured kitchen can lead to gaps, misaligned units, and doors that don't close properly.

  • Fitter Expertise: As mentioned, the fitter is key. An experienced fitter understands the nuances of Howdens units, the potential challenges, and how to overcome them. They’ll carefully check measurements, account for wall irregularities, and ensure everything aligns perfectly. A less experienced fitter might rush the job, leading to problems down the line.

  • Kitchen Design Complexity: Simple, straight-line kitchens are generally easier to install than complex designs with islands, peninsulas, or unusual angles. The more complex the design, the higher the risk of fitting issues, regardless of the kitchen supplier.

  • Wall Straightness and Levelness: Howdens units are designed to fit standard walls. Uneven walls or those with significant imperfections can create fitting challenges. The fitter will need to address these irregularities, which might involve additional work and potentially affect the final fit. This is not a problem unique to Howdens; it's a common issue in all kitchen installations.

  • Unit Quality: While anecdotal evidence suggests that Howdens generally provides units of acceptable quality, variations can occur. Manufacturing inconsistencies or damage during transport can impact the fit. Thorough inspection upon delivery is crucial.

Addressing Common Concerns:

Many online reviews mention occasional fitting problems with Howdens kitchens. While these concerns shouldn't automatically deter you, they highlight the importance of careful planning and selection of your fitter:

  • Gaps between units: This usually stems from inaccurate measurements or the fitter not adequately addressing wall irregularities.

  • Doors not aligning correctly: This could be due to incorrect door hanging, damaged units, or imperfections in the units themselves.

  • Drawer problems: Issues with drawers often relate to incorrect installation or damaged drawer runners.

How to Mitigate Risks:

To ensure a successful Howdens kitchen installation:

  1. Choose a reputable fitter: Get recommendations, check reviews, and ask for examples of their previous work. Don't hesitate to ask detailed questions about their experience with Howdens kitchens specifically.

  2. Thorough measurements: Ensure the fitter takes meticulous measurements, accounting for any wall irregularities. Multiple measurements should be taken to verify accuracy.

  3. Detailed planning: Work closely with the fitter and Howdens to create a detailed plan, specifying all aspects of the kitchen design. This helps to anticipate and resolve potential problems before installation.

  4. Inspect the units: Carefully inspect all delivered units for damage before installation begins. Report any issues immediately to Howdens.

  5. Supervision during installation: While you don't need to be present every minute, regular checks during the installation process can help identify and resolve problems early on.

Conclusion:

Do Howdens kitchens fit well? The answer depends largely on the skill of the fitter and the thoroughness of the planning process. While occasional fitting issues may arise, careful attention to detail and selection of a competent fitter significantly reduces the likelihood of problems. Howdens offers a cost-effective option for many, but understanding the factors affecting fit ensures a smoother and more satisfying kitchen renovation experience. Remember that diligent planning and the right fitter are more crucial to a successful kitchen installation than the brand of cabinets you choose. This is applicable to any kitchen supplier, not just Howdens. Therefore, thorough research and due diligence are vital regardless of your kitchen supplier of choice.

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