Kitchens

Order your kitchen with confidence. Deciding on your new kitchen, whether for a new or existing home, is a complex decision. The kitchen is the heart of most homes; the room most often used. It is both the food preparation and social hub. It is important that your kitchen suits you, your family, and your lifestyle; that it is well designed, functional, and attractive. Here are some check points that we encourage you to consider…

 

CRAFTMANSHIP
Check that your kitchen supplier is a member of a recognised trade body such as Registered Master Joiners. Registered Master Joiners ensures high standards of craftsmanship and guarantees the warranty required under The Consumer Guarantees Act. Don’t assume your supplier is a member. Check by phoning Registered Master Joiners on 06 844 9954 to confirm their status or check on the Master Joiners website www.masterjoiners.nz.

 

WARRANTY
Check what, if any, warranties are offered. A Registered Master Joiner will offer a warranty on material and workmanship. Well-made kitchens have no major warranty problems. You can check the reputation of a supplier by asking for the names of previous customers, or by checking with Registered Master Joiners.

 

PRODUCT CHOICE
Be sure you are choosing the best product for your circumstances. For instance, if you have a young family, or are otherwise likely to be hard on your kitchen, don’t choose a lacquer paint finish for the cabinet doors. General wear and tear, abuse and neglect are not covered by any warranty. Don’t accept or choose a product until you have carefully considered all the alternatives.

 

AVAILABILITY
Don’t get stuck with a limited range of colours or product range that may not suit your budget. Responsible suppliers will tell you about all your choices, rather than solely promoting their in-house lines.

 

FINANCE
Deposits are usually requested by kitchen suppliers. They are used to secure your commitment to the job and to pay for large out-sourced items such as benchtops. Do compare quotations carefully. Be wary if one quote is far lower than the others. Struggling suppliers may discount heavily to attract business.

 

QUALITY
Think carefully about the quality of low-cost imported products. Locally manufactured materials are made to withstand New Zealand conditions, and to a high standard that meets all regulatory requirements. Some imported boards have a weak core. Others have high formaldehyde levels, can give off an unpleasant smell, and have potential long-term health risks. Matching later for replacement or repair can also be a difficulty with imported products.

 

LAMINATE TOPS
Ask about the laminate tops if this is your choice of product – Quality laminate has a high moisture resistant base material. The top should be made from solid 30-35 mm base material. The laminate itself should have a thickness of 0.8 mm. Badly fitted joints will not resist steam and heat, and may cause problems later.

 

HARDWARE
Ensure the hardware comes with a warranty and that replacement hinges and drawer runners are readily available. Different brands are not interchangeable.

 

MANUFACTURE
Know where your kitchen is to be made. Don’t accept a kitchen made in an alternative location. It is more difficult for you to monitor the progress of your purchase, and can make any after sales maintenance required much more difficult.

 

The quality and continuing good looks of your kitchen will be remembered long after the price is forgotten.