Installing a Pot Rack
Installing a pot rack takes some time and involves a few very important considerations. You’ll be much happier with the results if you keep in mind location, height, and sufficient support needed before choosing and installing a pot rack.
Location
It’s a good idea to measure the ceiling joists before choosing a pot rack. This will help determine the general shape and size that will work best and mount with the least trouble. Also, while deciding where to mount your pot rack, ask yourself what you’d most like to hang from the pot rack. If you want to hang colanders and strainers, the consider mounting the rack over the sink. For bowls and whisks, a hanging rack over an island, or a wall behind a preparation area would work well. Of course, pots, pans and ladles are handy when kept on a rack by the cooking area. Also, keep in mind that a pot rack might block lighting in a kitchen with limited light sources. Some hanging pot racks have lighting systems as part of the rack to eliminate this possibility.
Height
A pot rack hanging from the ceiling or suspended from a wall should be mounted at a sufficient height to ensure that the components of the rack itself, as well as the tools hanging from it, won’t hit people in the head. To be sure, the household’s tallest person should go through the motions of preparing food by the proposed installation area; bend over, squat down and stand back up. This exercise will give you a good idea of height issues. Also, pot racks should not be mounted at any level that will interfere with cupboard doors.
Before Installing Find Sufficient Support
You’ll get the best support from a heavy duty rack, quality hardware and sufficient wall or ceiling supports. Insufficient support for a pot rack poses risks for property damage and serious safety concerns. If you are unsure of or unfamiliar with the proposed support structure, talk to a professional builder or carpenter before proceeding. Once installed, keeping the rack’s weight as evenly distributed as possible will help keep support constant and reduce swinging.
Installing a pot rack is really a simple process, once you've made a few decisions. After taking the steps to properly install your pot rack, you can feel confident in the beauty and convenience it brings to your kitchen. |
