What is Mortar Base, and what should it cost?

Let’s talk about something small but incredibly useful in your renovation: the mortar base. Most people don’t even notice it, but this humble 5cm step-up plays a big role in your kitchen setup.

And importantly, it should never cost near to, or more then $1k.

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What exactly is a Mortar Base?

It’s a 5cm raised platform under your kitchen cabinets.

In Chinese, it’s called 厨脚 (“chu jiao”), literally “kitchen foot.”

Sounds cute, but it’s super practical:

• It supports your kitchen carpentry so it doesn’t sit directly on the floor.

• It gives you space to hide and tilt your pipes —especially those chunky outlet sewage pipes [refer below].

• It prevents accidental kicks when standing at the sink, since it’s slightly recessed (55 cm) compared to the cabinet (60cm) in depth [refer below].

• And yes, it protects your carpentry from water damage. Remember when your parents wash the kitchen by throwing a tsunami on the floor?

Benefit 2: Hide & tilt pipes

Benefit 3: Won’t kick leg

How much should it cost?

Here’s the thing: it’s a small area, with relatively simple labour.

Most mortar bases definitely don’t cost more than $1,000. In fact, it should not even exceed $800.

If your quotation shows anything higher, better ask some questions.

Because unless it’s some mega custom job, that kind of markup is sus.

Know the Principle

Renovation isn’t just about choosing tiles and colours, it’s about understanding what you’re paying for. When you know the purpose of each item, and the logic behind pricing, you can sense when something doesn’t add up.

That’s why we always say: trust your ID, but also verify.

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If you are looking to shortlist reliable IDs/contractors for your reno, feel free to enquire here, or check out our blog for other important tips!!