When planning for the kitchen island installation, you should consider how you will use it. Are you using it as additional storage space, a buffet for large dinners, an incremental area for food preparation, or simply a place to eat? Some kitchen islands even have additional appliances, including under-counter microwaves and wine storage. Some are even designed to create an informal eating space. Knowing the purposes of your island is essential to its functionality. And when planning the installation, you can be assured of a successful result.
Installation
If you are planning to install a new kitchen island, you’ll want to know the proper steps to follow to get it right. You should begin by unplugging the power and turning off the hot and cold water lines on the island. Next, disconnect the water lines from the faucet. You should also remove all of the fasteners holding the island to the floor. After this, you can begin the installation process. The following are steps to help you complete the installation.
First, consider the space available. A kitchen island with a space below the hob could include drawers for storing cooking utensils. One island that also contains a washing-up sink can have extra counter space for dishes and dishcloths. The rear area of the island is not always accessible. For this reason, sliding doors or other access points are ideal. You can also install a dishwasher. This way, you can place appliances there and avoid wasting space in the middle of the kitchen.
Besides the space for the island, you also need to leave enough space around the island for people to move around. Ideal spacing is 48 inches away from the cabinets and 60 inches away if you want a dining bench on one side of the island. Use a washable marker or painter’s tape to sketch out the area where you want to place the island. If you have a large kitchen island, you can also install one with seating on one end.
After you’ve finished the installation, you can add more fixtures to the island. You can also install moulding, bar stools, and cabinet hardware where the island meets the flooring. It’s important to plan your kitchen island installation before purchasing the components. For example, you should take measurements of your fridge, freezer, microwave, and oven. After that, you should check the placement of the appliances to make sure that they don’t block walkways or other obstacles.
Materials
When choosing the materials for your new kitchen island, choose those that will complement your existing cabinetry. Prefabricated kitchen islands are limited in their options. They may not have enough space to accommodate a sink or a cooktop, and they’re not designed to hold a lot of weight. A semi-custom or custom kitchen island will allow you to choose the materials that best match the existing cabinetry in your kitchen. If you want to get more creative, you can mix and match the finishes for both the cabinetry and the island.
After deciding on the size and style of your new kitchen island, you’ll want to consider the layout of your kitchen. Make sure that there is enough room around the island on all sides. A minimum of 3.5 feet should be left between the island and the wall cabinets. Ideally, you should leave four feet between the island and the wall, so that you have room for chairs. You should also plan to add a sink to your new kitchen island and electrical outlets within easy reach.
Cost
Costs for installing a kitchen island vary according to who you hire. Whether you choose to install the island yourself or hire an installer will depend on the quality of the installation. If you want a high-quality installation, you should opt for a professional. There are many ways to reduce your costs, and you can save money by hiring a professional or hiring a handyman crew. Using an estimate comparison site will help you avoid the guesswork involved in hiring an installer.
Before choosing a countertop for your kitchen island, you should consider the space available in the area. If you intend to use the kitchen island for entertaining purposes, then you’ll want to choose a countertop material that will complement the overall look of your kitchen. Don’t select a countertop material simply because it’s more expensive. Make sure to give some thought to the style and material of the island because they can clash with your existing decor.