What are the best tools for kitchen fitting?

If you’re a full-time kitchen fitter, or own your own business, then having the right tools is crucial. They are going to make or break how efficiently you can complete jobs, so having the correct tools is vital.

In this article we’ll take a look at the essential kitchen fitting tools you need for your business. From jigs to drills, saws to drills, there’s plenty to dig into.

Whether you're just becoming a kitchen fitter, you're looking to start your own kitchen fitting business, this article is for you.

What are the essential kitchen fitting tools you need?

Figuring out how to fit kitchen units is one thing, but learning about the tools you need is vital for your business. The best tools to have in your kitchen fitting toolkit are:

• Router

• Worktop jig

• Jigsaw

• Drill Driver/Impact Driver Twin Pack

• Planer

• Mitre Saw

• Dust Extractor/Vacuum

Router and jig

A router is a power tool that is used to “route out” a recess or groove into wood or plastic. They are used to create patterns in wood, such as rounded off worktop edges, or adding detailing to frames and cabinetry.

A router works by spinning at speed to shape, cut and trim wood to create perfectly finished edges and corners. They can either be handheld or table mounted depending on your requirements.

The jig attachment is an extension of your router that provides a clear guide of where to cut. It’s an essential add-on that makes your life a lot easier and your cuts a lot smoother.

Jigsaw

Jigsaws are one of the few power tools available that can cut curves and irregular shapes. You can cut out stencilled designs on wood, metal, plastic, and tiles with a jigsaw. The blade automatically saws downwards away from the handle and is designed to be used standing up.

These tools are great for making incisions into countertops for sinks or appliances that have curved edges. A premium jigsaw will get the job done neatly, and a cordless jigsaw presents fewer hazards too.

Ensure that for any power tools that you use that you’re using the correct protective clothing and equipment.

You should also make sure you’re in a well-ventilated spot when you use any type of saw to avoid inhaling debris and sawdust. It can also help to reduce hearing damage being in an open area.

Drill and driver

A premium quality combi-drill is the perfect companion for any tradesperson, especially kitchen fitters.

Buying a twin pack of tools is often the most cost-effective method, so that’s what we recommend you go for.

The drill and driver combo work together to complete a whole list of small tasks. From fitting hinges on doors to drilling holes for kitchen taps, the combi drill can do it all.

You could opt for either a cordless combo or go for corded depending on what type of job you’ve got. Cordless works great when you want to get through some quick tasks with little inconvenient.

Meanwhile, corded is best if you have a lot of small tasks to do and don’t want to wait on charging batteries.

Planer

For a kitchen fitter, a planer is always going to have a use in your toolkit. Planers are used to flatten and smooth a wood surface. By skimming the top to remove thin layers, you can achieve the desired thickness or finish for your project.

Whether it’s trimming the bottom of a door or taking the edge off a worktop, a planer has many uses.

Again, opt for corded or cordless depending on which you think will suit your needs best.

Cords can often be a nightmare to work around, especially in a small kitchen. Meanwhile cordless tools can run out of battery quickly, so time the use of them well.

Mitre Saw

A mitre saw is another essential for a kitchen fitter’s toolkit - even if some fitters think they can get away without using it! It will help you achieve the perfect angles and techniques for any wood piece you’re working on.

Countertops and cupboards need to be completely flush to look seamless, and a mitre saw can achieve just that. Don’t be put off by their size – they’re easy to get around with a leg stand.

The size and variation of blade you purchase will vary based on what you’re using the saw for. Investing in a standard middle range blade is the best fit for a kitchen fitter working regularly with wood.

Dust Extractor/Vacuum

To tidy up at the end of the working day, a dust extractor is ideal for any kitchen fitter. If you want to offer a cleanup service as part of your skillset, this tool is key.

With a portable dust extractor, when using a jigsaw or mitre saw, you can keep the amount of sawdust to a minimum.

Where to find top quality kitchen fitter tools

As well as Selco and Tradepoint, Checkatrade members can also save with a Wickes TradePro account. There are discounts available on all orders, so members can check the benefits section of the app for the latest deals.

With the help of online searching, tradespeople that work in plumbing or heating can quickly access a variety of different tools. However, with a Checkatrade membership, you could enjoy great savings from a range of different suppliers.

As a tradesperson, you must have plumbing tools and heating engineering tools that mean you can work efficiently. With a good size van, you can store more tools. You need to be equipped for every eventuality.

How to start a kitchen fitting business

Who doesn't dream of being their own boss? Answering to no-one and managing your own diary. Bliss. If you've spent a while being a kitchen fitter under someone else's business, you’ve probably thought about starting up on your own. Or, if you already own your own kitchen fitting business, you're

Learn more

Where to start?

Get in touch with our team today, to start the checks, and become a guaranteed and approved member of Checkatrade. We’ll help you grow your business, get more work, and make great savings on your necessary work supplies.