As an experienced kitchen fitter I've been to many house's and witnessed first hand the devastation that the average DIY enthusiast has made of their kitchen.
In this article I'm going to be giving some tips on getting the right tools to fit your kitchen worktops the right way.
A lot of people don't realise the care and accuracy it takes to make a good job and the right tools allow you to do this.
To make a good job you need the right tools, at a bare minimum you will need the following:- Router We are going to use this to cut our straight edges, the blade turns in a clockwise direction and you should always be cutting into the rolled edge of the worktop.
This is because if you start from the other end when you cut out of the rolled edge it will break out.
Jigsaw You will need your jigsaw to cut out, your sink, hob and also cut your worktops to size Worktop Jig OR Straight Edge You will need a worktop jig if you want to cut but and scribe joints, these are joins that pull together with bolts so the join is almost seem less.
Of if your not feeling that adventurous any straight edge will work as long as it allows the router to travel freely.
Pencil The cheapest but a very important tool.
You will need this to mark all the joint and also scribe worktops back to walls.
You may also use a permanent marker on darker worktops as it will be easier to see but you will need to take the marks of with thinner before fitting.
Two work benches Obviously you will need something to work on and cramp your worktops to while cutting so they don't slip and damage.
You can use other surfaces but make sure they are stable.
File & Contact Glue These will be needed to apply and trim worktop edging.