Kitchens

Advice on kitchen design, renovations, refits and improving functionality and style in the heart of the home.

It's A Wrap - Low Cost Kitchen Transformations

25th June 2021

If you want to upgrade your kitchen, kitchen wrapping could be the right solution for you. When we invest in furniture or fitted units, we are often stuck with them, even when they are no longer to our tastes. We feel bad getting rid of a bulky wardrobe or perfectly good set of kitchen units, simply because we don’t like them anymore, and are reluctant to invest in new units and furniture when what we have already got is perfectly sound – even if it doesn’t look as good as we may like.

Here’s what you need to know about wrapping.

What is wrapping?

Wrapping is an innovative approach which takes advantage of structurally sound albeit dated furniture and fittings and breathes a new lease of life into it. Vinyl film, much like a very large sticker or sheet of sticky back plastic, is applied to hard surfaces – including wood and glass.

What are the benefits of kitchen wrapping?

There are plenty of benefits to getting your kitchen wrapped. The foremost benefit is the considerable cost savings of wrapping your in comparison to investing in an entirely new kitchen, bathroom or furniture set. Particularly if your existing units are in good condition, you can save anything from 40-75% on the cost of buying new; in addition, the reduced waste means that you are minimising your carbon footprint, too. Wrapping also helps to maintain the condition of your existing units, protecting them from damage from moisture, spills and scratches. This means that it is worth investing in the best, carpenter-crafted furniture that you can because, with the help of wrapping, that furniture will probably last a lifetime and still look great.

What can be wrapped?

Pretty much any hard surface can be wrapped; floors, cupboards, work tops, bathroom units, bedroom furniture, wine racks, cupboard interiors.

How long will a wrap last?

As with any home investments, the better quality you get, the longer it will last. Depending on the quality of the installation and the vinyl as well as how you treat and maintain the wrap, kitchen wraps will typically last between 3 and 13 years. If the wrap is properly cared for, it could last a lot longer.

How is wrap installed?

The wrapping process is fairly simple but needs to be meticulously done for a high end finish. Unit doors are removed and all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned. The wrapping process itself is straightforward; skilled tradespeople are trained to wrap to high standards. Once everything is wrapped, doors are rehung; the process could take less than a day for smaller areas, or for bigger or more complex jobs, 3 or more days.

If you would like to add a splash of opulence to your home at a fraction of the price, check out our online directory of trusted local wrapping services and see how they can transform your home.

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Looking for more kitchens advice?

Find clear, practical answers to common kitchens questions, helping homeowners understand everyday issues, know what checks they can carry out safely, and when it is best to contact a qualified professional.

Do I need planning permission for a kitchen extension?

It's the extension that matters, not the fact it's a kitchen. Single-storey rear extensions often fall under Permitted Development - but depth, height, and proximity to boundaries all affect whether that applies to you. Side extensions and two-storey builds almost always need full permission. Building Regulations approval is separate and required regardless. If you're in any doubt, a quick pre-application inquiry to your local planning authority will give you certainty before you commit.
Should I choose a bespoke or flat-pack kitchen?

Flat-pack has come a long way - professionally fitted, it can look brilliant and is a smart choice for a regular-shaped kitchen or if you're renovating to sell. Bespoke is worth the extra investment when your kitchen has awkward dimensions, alcoves, or features that standard units just won't fit around. It's also built to last longer. If you're staying in the property long-term and want something that feels right rather than just functional, bespoke is usually the better call.
What kitchen layout works best for my home?

It mostly comes down to the shape of the room. Narrow rooms suit a galley layout as it's efficient and practical. Corner rooms work well with an L-shape, which creates a natural flow between hob, sink, and fridge. U-shaped layouts give the most storage in a bigger, squarer room. An island needs at least a metre of clear space around it - don't try to squeeze one in. Open-plan connecting to a dining area is consistently the most popular choice right now. A good kitchen designer will look at your space properly before suggesting any particular layout.
Do I need a plumber and electrician for a kitchen installation?

In most cases, yes. A full kitchen fit will involve plumbing for the sink, dishwasher, and possibly a washing machine, plus electrical work for new sockets, the cooker connection, and lighting. Both need to be done by qualified people - electrical work near water and worktops must comply with Part P. Some kitchen fitters cover basic plumbing, but for anything more involved, bring in the specialists.
How long does a kitchen installation take?

Typically five to ten working days for a standard kitchen, though it depends on size, layout complexity, and whether any rewiring or new plumbing runs are needed. Delayed deliveries are one of the most common causes of projects overrunning. Confirm lead times before you schedule the work.
Do I need to move out while my kitchen is being fitted?

Usually not, but expect a fair amount of disruption - especially in the first couple of days when the old kitchen is being ripped out. Water and power will be off at various points, so have a kettle, microwave, and bathroom sink access sorted. For a complex fit with multiple trades over an extended period, some people prefer to stay elsewhere - but for a standard installation, most people manage fine at home.
Does a new kitchen add value to my home?

A well-fitted, well-designed kitchen can make a real difference to both value and how quickly a property sells - it's one of the first things buyers look at. The return depends on quality and the local market, but a tired or poorly fitted kitchen can put buyers off just as easily as a good one draws them in. Professional installation is very important here!
What are the most common issues that arise during a kitchen installation?

The big ones: units or appliances arriving damaged or the wrong size, unexpected plumbing or electrical problems behind the walls, deliveries running late, and the room not being properly prepped before the fitter arrives. Most of these are avoidable - double-check measurements before ordering, get a clear schedule agreed with everyone involved, and make sure any plastering or flooring that needs to happen first is done before the fitter turns up.

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