Whether you’re planning a complete kitchen overhaul or simply thinking of replacing a few cabinets, accurate measurement of your kitchen space is crucial. Get it wrong and you risk delays, unexpected costs, or worse—appliances that don’t fit where they’re supposed to.
This guide aims to provide a thorough step-by-step process to help homeowners measure their kitchen spaces with accuracy and ease. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or planning to hire professionals, knowing the exact dimensions can be a game-changer.
Materials Needed
Before diving in, make sure you have the right tools at hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Tape measure: Preferably one that measures up to at least 5 metres.
- Graph paper or a kitchen design app: For sketching your kitchen layout.
- Pencil or pen: For jotting down measurements.
- Spirit level: To ensure your measurements are level.
- Calculator: For quick calculations.
Preparation Steps
First and foremost, clear the kitchen of any obstructions that could interfere with your measurements. This includes removing any small appliances from worktops and pushing furniture out of the way.
Once the area is cleared, sketch a simple layout of your kitchen, marking down where the windows, doors, and utilities are located. Now that you’re all set, gather your tools so that they’re easily accessible.
Step 1: Measure the Kitchen Perimeter
To begin with, you’ll want to measure the overall length and width of your kitchen. Use your tape measure to determine the dimensions from wall to wall. Make sure your tape measure is taut and level for an accurate reading. It may be helpful to have a second person assist you to ensure precision. Jot down these measurements as they will serve as a foundational basis for everything else.
Step 2: Wall Measurements
Move on to measuring the length of each individual wall from corner to corner. Be mindful of any architectural features such as archways or pillars, and make a note of them on your sketch.
It’s always a good idea to double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy. Additionally, consider any fixtures like radiators or pipework that could affect the placement of cabinets or appliances.
Step 3: Appliance and Fixture Dimensions
Now that you have the wall measurements, it’s time to focus on the spaces intended for your appliances. Measure the space available for your cooker, hob, dishwasher, and fridge. If you’re replacing existing appliances, don’t simply assume the new ones will fit in the same space; always check their dimensions.
For sinks, measure both the width and depth of the area where it will be installed, taking into account any under-sink storage or plumbing.
Step 4: Worktops and Storage Units
Worktop space is invaluable in any kitchen, so ensure you measure this with care. Measure the length from one end to the other, and don’t forget the depth. The same goes for your storage units; measure the height, width, and depth of both base units and wall units. If your kitchen design includes plinths or cornices, make sure to include these in your measurements as they can impact the overall dimensions.
Step 5: Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are often overlooked but play a significant role in the layout of your kitchen. Measure the distance from the windowsill to the floor, and the width and height of the windows themselves. For doors, note down both the height and width, as well as the direction in which the door swings. This is important for the placement of appliances and units.
Step 6: Ceiling Height
Knowing your ceiling height is important, especially if you’re considering installing tall units or decorative features like pendant lights. To measure the ceiling height, place one end of the tape measure on the floor and extend it vertically until it reaches the ceiling. Make sure the tape measure is straight; use a spirit level if necessary.
Step 7: Double-Check and Calculate
At this stage, it’s highly recommended to double-check all your measurements. Errors can be both time-consuming and costly to rectify later on. Once you’re confident in the measurements, you can calculate the square footage or meterage of the kitchen. This is often useful for estimating material costs for flooring or worktops.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Measuring a kitchen may seem straightforward, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls:
- Not double-checking measurements: Always measure twice to ensure accuracy.
- Forgetting to measure the depth: This is crucial for appliances and worktops.
- Ignoring architectural features: Pillars, archways, or sloped ceilings can all impact your kitchen layout.
Conclusion
Accurate measurements are the cornerstone of any successful kitchen renovation or build. By following this step-by-step guide, you can avoid the pitfalls and setbacks that come from incorrect dimensions.
Whether you’re renovating your kitchen yourself or enlisting the help of professionals, taking the time to measure accurately will save you both time and money in the long run, and help you create the kitchen you’ve always dreamed of.
If you are in need of a new kitchen, why not come to our kitchen showroom in Peterborough for a closer look? We also provide kitchen fitting services, Get in touch with us today for more information.
