{"id":819,"date":"2017-06-15T10:57:49","date_gmt":"2017-06-15T09:57:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/advice\/?post_type=project_page&p=819"},"modified":"2020-11-16T09:11:28","modified_gmt":"2020-11-16T09:11:28","slug":"kitchens","status":"publish","type":"project_page","link":"https:\/\/www.local-quotes.co.uk\/advice\/guide\/kitchens\/kitchens\/","title":{"rendered":"Kitchens"},"content":{"rendered":"

Your kitchen is the hub of your home, so you want it to look stylish and modern. With lots of new styles of cabinets, worktops and islands available, you can construct your dream kitchen easily.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Your kitchen is the hub of your home, so you want it to look stylish and modern. With lots of new styles of cabinets, worktops and islands available, you can construct your dream kitchen easily.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":820,"parent":0,"template":"","meta":[],"tags":[],"tax_works":[53],"class_list":["post-819","project_page","type-project_page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tax_works-kitchens"],"acf":{"testimonials":false,"inspirations":[832,847,1676,1689],"faq":[856,857,858,859],"quote_link":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/quotes.html?keyword=kitchens&sqn=115897&spn=810","project_page_element_title":"Different Kitchen Elements","project_page_elements":[{"element_label":"Cabinets","link_to_element_post":{"ID":821,"post_author":"10","post_date":"2017-06-15 12:50:19","post_date_gmt":"2017-06-15 11:50:19","post_content":"Cabinets make up a huge part of your kitchen. The layout of your kitchen cabinets has a big influence on the look of your kitchen and how you use it. They can make it feel open and airy or small and cosy, and affect how much natural light there is. Plus their design can have a big impact on your kitchen\u2019s style.\r\n\r\nAll of this means it\u2019s important to get your kitchen cabinets right. A good way to start is to make sure that you know your different kitchen cabinet types. We\u2019ve made a handy guide to ensure that your kitchen cabinet shopping is as easy as possible.\r\n\r\n

Kitchen cabinet types<\/h3>\r\nKitchen cabinets can generally be divided into 3 categories. Lots of kitchens include all 3 types, but this is by no means compulsory. Which kitchen cabinet types you choose to fit and where largely depends on the appliances you have and the effect that you want to create.\r\n\r\n

Base cabinets<\/h5>\r\nBase cabinets sit on the floor and fit underneath the kitchen surface and worktop. They\u2019re probably the most common type of cabinet and can be found in most kitchens. Traditionally, a base cabinet is divided into two, with a hinge-door cupboard taking up most of the space and a draw fitted above it. However, there are lots of other types of base cabinet. These include corner cabinets, open cabinets, and pull-out cabinets, which are often used to store herbs and spices.\r\n\r\n
Wall cabinets<\/h5>\r\nWall cabinets fit on the wall, usually above base cabinets. Often people leave a gap between their base and wall cabinets for a worktop and cooking space, but you can also stack them directly on top of each other if you prefer. Wall cabinets tend to reach high up on kitchen walls, either nearly or right up to the ceiling. Wall cabinets usually contain shelving and often come with the option for a glass door.\r\n\r\n
Tall cabinets<\/h5>\r\nTall cabinets tend to be less common than base and wall cabinets. They\u2019re essentially very tall base cabinets and can often reach right up to your kitchen ceiling. They\u2019re usually used either for storage or to house appliances like fridges and ovens.\r\n\r\nOnce you\u2019ve worked out which kitchen cabinet types you want and where then you\u2019re free to start making decisions on material, style and whether you want to buy stock or custom-made ones. Once you\u2019ve chosen your cabinets you can get installation quotes by completing our online form. Simply click the \u2018Start my project\u2019<\/a> button and we\u2019ll get you up to 4 free, no-obligation quotes.","post_title":"Fitting a New Kitchen: Kitchen Cabinet Types Explained","post_excerpt":"Kitchen cabinets come in 3 main types: base, wall and tall. You can use different types and combinations to create a unique kitchen to suit your home.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"kitchen-cabinet-types-explained","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-10-29 17:06:37","post_modified_gmt":"2019-10-29 17:06:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/advice\/?post_type=project_page_element&p=821","menu_order":0,"post_type":"project_page_element","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}},{"element_label":"Worktops","link_to_element_post":{"ID":822,"post_author":"5","post_date":"2017-06-15 15:04:45","post_date_gmt":"2017-06-15 14:04:45","post_content":"One of the most vital parts you'll need to decide on for your kitchen is the new kitchen worktops.\r\n\r\nThey not only provide the all-important space for food preparation but they also contribute an integral part to the kitchen\u2019s looks.\r\n\r\nThey come in a range of materials including laminate, wood, stone and stainless steel. But which material is best for you? We've put together a list of the pros and cons of each material to help you decide on your new kitchen worktops. \r\n\r\n

Laminate<\/h3>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_825\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"564\"]\"laminate Image via Pinterest<\/a>[\/caption]\r\nLaminate is a very popular work surface because of its cost and is by far your cheapest option. There are plenty of colours and styles too that\u2019ll set your kitchen apart from your neighbours.\r\n\r\nOf course, there are some negatives though and you won\u2019t be able to chop food directly onto it. Hot pans are also an issue as the surface is easily damaged.\r\n\r\n

Granite<\/h3>\r\n\"granite\r\nFor homeowners looking for something a little more lavish, granite is a great option. This natural material is found all over the world and no two pieces are ever the same, creating a unique appeal for your kitchen.\r\n\r\nIt won\u2019t scratch or burn either which is a definite plus for the kitchen, but because of all its qualities, the price can escalate.\r\n\r\n

Concrete<\/h3>[caption id=\"attachment_834\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"564\"]\"concrete Image via Pinterest<\/a>[\/caption]\r\n\r\nPolished concrete is fast becoming an option for homeowners now that it's had some upgrades. You can have a concrete worktop in a range of colours and get a flat, smooth finish.\r\n\r\nOf course, concrete is naturally strong and heat-resistant, making it perfect for kitchens. It no longer cracks or chips easily thanks to improved technology, and you can have them sealed to stop staining.\r\n\r\n

Stainless steel<\/h3>\"stainless\r\n\r\nFor anyone who loves the industrial look, stainless steel is fantastic. It's heat-, stain- and rust-resistant so it's easy to keep clean as bacteria can't thrive on it. Just make sure that you use a chopping board whenever you prepare food otherwise you could end up with scratches.\r\n\r\nAnother good idea is to choose a brushed stainless steel because it will hide any marks you do manage to get on the surface. To keep the look feeling homely, combine stainless steel with wood.\r\n\r\n

Wood<\/h3>\"wood\r\n\r\nWood is another material that has been around for a long time like granite worktops. A great thing about wood is that if you damage it, you can simply get it refinished and restore it to its former glory.\r\n\r\nThe only downside to wood is that it's quite high maintenance. You'll need to seal it once a month to stop it getting damaged by heat and moisture.\r\n\r\n

Soapstone<\/h3>[caption id=\"attachment_837\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"564\"]\"soapstone Image via Pinterest<\/a>[\/caption]\r\n\r\nHave you heard of soapstone before? It looks a little like granite, as it ranges from light grey to greeny-black in colour. The difference between soapstone and granite worktops is that soapstone won't need sealing regularly as it is a nonporous material.\r\n\r\nLike stainless steel, it can get scratched or dented easily which will show up. If you choose light grey soapstone, it will darken over time and can sometimes develop a pattern on it. But it does look super-stylish and can be paired with wood for a great finish.\r\n\r\n

Engineered quartz<\/h3>[caption id=\"attachment_838\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"564\"]\"engineered Image via Pinterest<\/a>[\/caption]\r\n\r\nEngineered quartz looks absolutely stunning and it is stronger than granite. It won't scratch, crack or stain easily and it's resistant to heat. There are plenty of colours and styles available, but because it's engineered an entire run will look the same.\r\n\r\nIf you like the fact that granite worktops offer characteristics of natural stone, engineered quartz might not be for you. But if you want beautiful worktops, choose engineered quartz in a white to resemble marble.\r\n\r\nSo are you closer to making a choice for your new kitchen worktops? Click 'Start my Project'<\/a> to get up to 4 quotes from reliable kitchen fitters.","post_title":"How to Choose the Best Material for your New Kitchen Worktops","post_excerpt":"Kitchen worktops make up most of your kitchen, so you want to get them right. There are plenty of different materials to choose from, all of which have their pros and cons.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"choose-best-material-new-kitchen-worktops","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-10-29 17:13:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-10-29 17:13:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/advice\/?post_type=project_page_element&p=822","menu_order":0,"post_type":"project_page_element","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}},{"element_label":"Appliances","link_to_element_post":{"ID":840,"post_author":"10","post_date":"2017-06-16 13:07:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-06-16 12:07:10","post_content":"If you\u2019re creating a new kitchen, this can be a really exciting time. Kitchens often form the hub of people\u2019s homes, so are well worth investing in. Not only do the best kitchens look good, they also suit the preferences and habits of the people that use them.\r\n\r\nThis simple fact is why it\u2019s worth putting time and effort into choosing your kitchen appliances. Picking the first or cheapest things you can find might be tempting initially, but in the long run can waste money and cause frustration. To help you create a kitchen that\u2019s suitable and works for you, we\u2019ve come up with 3 decisions you need to make when choosing kitchen appliances.\r\n\r\n

1. Freestanding vs. built-in oven<\/h3>\r\n\r\n

Freestanding<\/h5>\r\nIf you want a freestanding oven, you\u2019ll need to buy a cooker. These stand on the floor and fit between your kitchen units. Most conventional cookers have 4 hob plates, 2 ovens and a grill. If you want even more you can get a range cooker. These usually have 6 or more hob plates and up to 4 oven compartments.\r\n\r\nThe main benefit to freestanding cookers is that they\u2019re flexible. They\u2019re available in lots of different sizes and you can put one almost anywhere in your kitchen - as long as it\u2019s within about 1.5m of a power source (plug or gas outlet). Plus, if you move house you can take your cooker with you.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_844\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"564\"]\"\" Image via Pinterest<\/a>[\/caption]\r\n\r\n
Built-in<\/h5>\r\nBuilt-in ovens are installed in kitchen units. If you choose to get one then you\u2019ll need to buy a hob separately. Although this is initially more effort than just buying a cooker, it will give you more choice and flexibility. Lots of people fit their oven in a base unit with the hob directly above it. But you could also fit your oven in a higher up unit if you prefer and have your hob elsewhere.\r\n\r\nBuilt-in ovens usually have 1 or 2 ovens so don\u2019t have the capacity that range cookers have. However, built-in hobs often have more advanced options, like electric induction, that most cookers can\u2019t provide.\r\n\r\nUnfortunately, it\u2019s usually very difficult or impossible to move built-in ovens. So if you move out the chances are that you\u2019ll have to leave your oven and hob behind. This can, however, increase the value of your home and mean you get a higher price for it.\r\n\r\n

2. Fridge-freezer vs. separate appliances<\/h3>\r\n\r\n

Fridge-freezer<\/h5>\r\nThe main advantage of fridge-freezers is that there are lots of different models available, so you can choose one to suit you and your kitchen. You can pick whether you have the freezer at the bottom or the top and a model with the most convenient fridge-to-freezer ratio. The standard ratio is 60:40 but if you want more freezer space you can go with 50:50 or if you want less you can choose 70:30. Another practical benefit to fridge-freezers is that most designs are stacked so take up less floor space that separate appliances sitting side by side.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_845\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"418\"]\"\" Image via Pinterest<\/a>[\/caption]\r\n\r\n
Separate appliances<\/h5>\r\nIf a fridge-freezer doesn\u2019t float your boat then you can buy separate appliances. The main benefit to having a separate fridge and freezer is that you don\u2019t have to keep them together. If you\u2019ve got a small kitchen and want to maximise your cupboard space then you can just have your fridge in the kitchen and put the freezer in a utility room or garage. Or you can separate your appliances within your kitchen so your fridge is in a convenient place for cooking \u2013 near to your cooker or main worktop perhaps \u2013 and the freezer is more out of the way. And of course, another obvious benefit to separate appliances is that if you don\u2019t actually want or use a freezer, you don\u2019t have to have one.\r\n\r\n

3. Combi vs. standard microwave<\/h3>\r\n\r\n

Combi microwave<\/h5>\r\nCombination microwaves have lots of benefits that can make them an indispensable kitchen tool. Most can act as an oven or grill as well as a microwave, which can be really handy if you have limited space in your regular oven. Plus they often cook more quickly than a standard oven, which is great if you\u2019re in a hurry.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_846\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"564\"]\"\" Image via Pinterest<\/a>[\/caption]\r\n\r\n
Standard microwave<\/h5>\r\nThe ultimate benefit to standard microwaves is that they\u2019re cheaper than combi microwaves. If you\u2019ve got a tight budget then the choice is a bit of a no-brainer. Plus, if you have a large oven or multiple ones, or simply don\u2019t do a lot of oven cooking, then buying a combi microwave is a waste of money. If you just want an appliance to heat and defrost food then you\u2019re much better off with a standard microwave.\r\n\r\nPutting some careful thought into making these 3 decisions should mean that you end up with kitchen appliances that you like and suit your habits. To get advice on installing your kitchen appliances, see our articles on kitchen regulations and qualifications.","post_title":"3 Decisions You Need to Make When Choosing Kitchen Appliances","post_excerpt":"No kitchen is complete without appliances. Common kitchen appliances include cookers, ovens, fridges and dishwashers.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"3-decisions-kitchen-appliances","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-10-29 16:56:25","post_modified_gmt":"2019-10-29 16:56:25","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.quotatis.co.uk\/advice\/?post_type=project_page_element&p=840","menu_order":0,"post_type":"project_page_element","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}}],"standard_and_laws":[{"standard_and_laws_link":{"ID":850,"post_author":"10","post_date":"2017-06-16 16:22:06","post_date_gmt":"2017-06-16 15:22:06","post_content":"Kitchens are an important part of many homes. They provide a social space for cooking, eating and relaxing. \r\n\r\nThere are several regulations that apply to kitchens because of the number of appliances they usually contain. These make sure that kitchens are safe and functional places. The two types of regulations that may apply to kitchens are planning permission and building regulations.\r\n\r\n

Planning permission<\/h3>\r\n\r\nFor some building projects, you need to apply to the local authority for planning permission to carry out the work. This system is in place to make sure that building work is appropriate and in-keeping with the local area. Because the system is locally enforced, planning regulations can vary across the country. Check with your local authority if you\u2019re not sure what rules apply in your area.\r\n\r\nGenerally, you don't need planning permission for internal works. If your kitchen project is completely internal, you don't need to apply for planning permission. You also don't need planning permission to replace all or parts of an existing kitchen. However, if any of the work involves altering the exterior of the property, like adding a window, you may need planning permission.\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n\r\nIf your new kitchen is in an extension or loft conversion, you'll need to get planning permission. The application must contain information about the extension and how you are going to use the new space. If you\u2019re converting your garage into a kitchen, you may also need planning permission. In many places there are restrictions on the number of parking spaces that must be available. If you convert your garage to extend your kitchen, you may find that you have to provide a replacement parking space.\r\n\r\n

Building regulations<\/h3>\r\n\r\nBuilding regulations make sure that buildings are safe as well as energy efficient. They establish standards that building work must meet. Some projects may need building regulations approval, which means that the local authority will inspect the work. Even if a project doesn't need building regulations approval, it\u2019s a good idea to make sure the work meets current building regulations. Current building regulations set out best practices for fire and electrical safety, so it's worth understanding them.\r\n\r\nIf you're installing a new kitchen, you'll need building regulations approval. Generally, this means having an inspection by your local authority. You may also need to submit your building plans. If you're not moving the sink or oven, or altering electric circuits, you probably don't need building regulations approval. If you\u2019re not sure if your kitchen project will need building regulations approval, get advice from your local authority.\r\n\r\n

6 ways your kitchen will need to meet building regulations<\/h3>\r\n\r\nYour kitchen may need to meet building regulations in several different ways. For example: