Thank you for choosing HUSK to bring your kitchen vision to life. This guide is designed specifically for customers using IKEA kitchen cabinets, paired with HUSK custom fronts. It will take you through each step of the installation process, from preparing your cabinets to the final touches that make your kitchen truly yours.

If you’re working with Howdens cabinets, you’re likely collaborating with a trade professional who will handle the installation for you. Rest assured, they will have all the expertise needed to fit your HUSK kitchen. For our customers using IKEA cabinets, this guide will help you through the process, offering tips and insights along the way to ensure your HUSK kitchen is installed perfectly.

Whether you’re installing yourself or working with a fitter, we’re here to support you at every stage. Let’s get started!

A panel that sits at the end of a run of tall, base, or wall units, or in between freestanding appliances. These panels offer structural support and help hide the internals of your unit for a cleaner finish.

A filler panel that sits between your unit and the wall, ensuring a flush fit and seamless appearance between your cabinets and surrounding walls.

A panel running along the bottom of your units, covering the gap between the floor and the base of the cabinet.

A panel that runs underneath a row of wall cabinets. You can choose to have this visible or extend your wall unit door fronts to hide the panel when closed.

Before you begin installation, it’s essential to double-check all quantities and dimensions on your invoice to ensure everything is correct. We conduct a thorough sense-check of all orders, but it’s always wise to review your invoice thoroughly in case of any discrepancies.

We recommend that you make these checks as soon as possible after delivery, and use the opportunity to check for any superficial damage to your kitchen fronts.

Most of our cover panels, scribes and plinths are provided oversized for on-site trimming to achieve a perfect fit. For example, IKEA cover panels typically measure 645mm x 900mm, and Howdens panels are 660mm x 950mm.

When cutting panels, ensure to use masking tape over the cutting area to reduce chipping and use a fine-cut, super-sharp blade in a circular saw. If working with laminate surfaces like FENIX® or HPL, this method will help you achieve a clean cut. Always ensure edges are sanded down after cutting, and finish with oil if necessary.

Most IKEA cabinets don’t have enough space for plumbing or other services behind the cabinets. If you’d like, you can step the kitchen out with wooden battens, creating a service void behind your cabinets. Otherwise, plumbing and electricals may have to run underneath the cabinet.

For customers installing a 12mm stone worktop, we provide additional batten support. These battens are designed to replace the standard IKEA metal rails at the top of the cabinets and provide extra stability for your worktop. Refer to the images below for batten placement guidance.

Included in your order, you’ll find:

• Your HUSK Invoice: Numbers match your kitchen plan, helping you place panels and fronts accurately.
• Your HUSK Visual: Each front and panel is numbered to correspond with your IKEA/Howdens plan, helping you understand placement.
• Your Packing List: This itemised list details each component of your order, with corresponding stickers on each panel for easy identification.

All components of your HUSK kitchen come carefully protected:

• FENIX® and HPL Panels: Wrapped in a protective film, with edges trimmed to protect against damage during transport.
• Protective Corners: All components are fitted with corner protectors and blue spacing tabs for additional protection.
• Recyclable Packaging: The majority of our packaging materials are recyclable. Please do not leave the protective film on your fronts for more than a few weeks to avoid permanent marks.

Before beginning the installation of your HUSK fronts, ensure your IKEA cabinets are fully assembled according to the IKEA instructions.

Install your cabinets first. All cabinets should be fully installed before attaching fronts. This includes both base and wall cabinets. Double-check the alignment of your cabinets with a spirit level to ensure they are level before attaching fronts.

If you have ordered cover panels, under-cover panels.

Next, install your HUSK fronts. These will arrive with pre-drilled holes that correspond with the IKEA hinge system. Simply follow the IKEA installation guide to attach the fronts using the IKEA-provided screws and hinges.

• For Timber Fronts: Use a fine-tooth blade or circular saw to make adjustments. Ensure all edges are sanded down and oiled for a clean finish.
• For FENIX®/HPL: Use masking tape over the cutting area to prevent chipping and follow the same method as timber fronts for sanding and finishing.

If you’re purchasing a worktop through HUSK, we will coordinate with you to arrange a templating visit once your HUSK kitchen fronts are installed.

Please ensure all fronts are attached before the templating visit. After templating, your worktop will be installed within 5-7 working days.

If you’re self-installing an IKEA or third-party worktop, follow the worktop supplier’s instructions to complete the installation.

For FENIX® and HPL fronts, wipe them down with a microfibre cloth and a mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners.

Use a soft, dry cloth to clean your timber fronts. Avoid exposing timber fronts to excess moisture, as it may cause warping over time.