Kitchen cabinets play a critical role in any kitchen design. Not only do they provide essential storage space, but they also define the aesthetic of the entire kitchen. Many homeowners wonder whether or not they should install flooring underneath their kitchen cabinets. There are pros and cons to both approaches, so it is important to consider your specific needs. This article will examine the key factors to help you decide if you should floor under kitchen cabinets.
Reasons to Floor Under Kitchen Cabinets
There are several potential benefits to installing flooring underneath kitchen cabinets:
Creates a More Seamless Look
Installing flooring under the cabinets creates a more seamless, continuous look throughout the kitchen. The flooring flows from room to room without being interrupted by the void underneath the cabinets. Many homeowners prefer this smooth, unbroken aesthetic.
Makes Future Changes Easier
If you decide to rearrange or replace your kitchen cabinets down the road, having flooring underneath avoids an uneven surface. It provides a level foundation for reconfiguring the layout. You won’t be left with unfinished subfloor that needs work.
Minimizes Dirt and Dust Buildup
Leaving the area under cabinets exposed allows dirt, dust and other debris to accumulate in the empty space. This creates added housework of having to routinely clean underneath. By installing flooring, you fully enclose the area to keep it free of grime.
Prevents Pests and Bugs
An exposed subfloor provides an inviting pathway for bugs, rodents and other pests. Closing off the area with flooring blocks access points for critters to come in. This prevents unpleasant encounters with unwelcome visitors.
Can Increase Resale Value
Flooring under the kitchen cabinets is sometimes viewed as a more upgraded, high-end detail by prospective home buyers. While minor, this can moderately boost the overall resale value of your home.
Improves Moisture Protection
Flooring provides an extra barrier against potential water leaks from the sink, dishwasher or refrigerator. Preventing moisture from seeping through helps protect the subfloor from warping or rotting over time.
Allows for Hidden Low-Voltage Wiring
If low-voltage wiring for kitchen appliances needs to be run, flooring provides a way to conceal the wiring. The wires can be safely installed beneath the floor with minimal visibility.
May Improve Acoustics
The open space under kitchen cabinets can reverberate noise from appliances like the dishwasher or garbage disposal. Installing flooring helps muffle some of that sound transmission.
Can Hide Uneven Surfaces
If the subfloor has imperfections, gaps, repairs or variations in height, flooring conceals these flaws to provide a level surface. You avoid drawing attention to any irregularities underneath.
Reasons to Leave Subfloor Exposed Under Cabinets
While flooring under cabinets has its perks, there are also a few reasons you may opt to leave the subfloor exposed:
Allows for Easier Plumbing and Electrical Work
Leaving the under cabinet area open provides direct access for doing any plumbing or electrical repairs down the road. Technicians can readily work on issues without having to cut into or remove flooring.
Improves Kitchen Ventilation
The open space under cabinets allows for increased airflow throughout the kitchen. This airflow helps ventilate the area and prevents a closed-in, stuffy feel.
Lower Project Cost and Effort
Skipping flooring under the cabinets is one of the easiest ways to reduce total project cost and labor. Floor installation requires added materials, time and craftsmanship you can avoid.
Minimizes Installation Challenges
Fitting flooring perfectly underneath cabinets can be tricky. Gaps, lifted edges and imperfect cuts are common issues. Leaving the subfloor exposed avoids these frustrations.
Allows Moisture to Evaporate
Small leaks can develop in old plumbing or appliances. Exposed subfloor permits moisture from minor drips or spills to evaporate rather than getting sealed in by flooring.
Doesn’t Impact Resale Value
While continuous flooring is attractive, most buyers don’t expect or look for full flooring under cabinets. Leaving the area exposed does not detract from home value.
Maintains Consistent Cabinet Height
Some flooring types like hardwood or tile add height compared to the subfloor. Transition areas between cabinetry and floor levels can look sloppy. Keeping the existing subfloor height avoids this issue.
Doesn’t Complicate Future Remodeling
You may decide to remodel again in 10-15 years. With open subfloor, taking out old cabinets and reconfiguring the space is simpler without tearing up flooring.
Key Considerations for Flooring Under Kitchen Cabinets
If you decide to install continuous flooring underneath your kitchen cabinets, there are a few important considerations:
Choose Moisture-Resistant Materials
The area under the kitchen sink and appliances sees a high moisture level. Select water-resistant flooring like vinyl, linoleum or lacquered hardwood to withstand potential spills or leaks.
Allow Proper Clearance
Make sure floor thickness doesn’t conflict with cabinet height or limit plumbing space. Leave adequate room for pipes, hoses and garbage disposals. Check appliance clearance specs.
Factor in Irregular Areas
Flooring around cabinet bases or support posts creates gaps and seams. Plan for these irregular spots and choose materials that allow for tight seams.
Incorporate Transition Strips
Use transition strips between cabinet edge and flooring to protect the flooring from cabinet movement or shifting. This prevents buckling.
Remove Doors During Installation
Taking cabinet doors off makes it easier to fit flooring fully under cabinets. Reinstall doors after the flooring has been positioned.
Check for Moisture Issues First
If there are any signs of moisture damage, mold or mildew, address these issues before enclosing the area with flooring. Solve the source of the problem first.
Use Durable Flooring Fasteners
Glue down or nail flooring using durable adhesives or ring shanked flooring nails to keep boards securely fastened. This prevents loose edges or detached areas under cabinets.
Cut Flooring In Place for Best Fit
Rather than cutting boards to size beforehand, do final trimming with a jigsaw or handsaw with the flooring held in position. This allows for a perfect custom fit.
Use Removable Flooring Products
Opt for floating or peel-and-stick flooring that can be easily removed intact later if needed. This avoids damages that occur with prying up nailed or glued floors.
Flooring Options Under Kitchen Cabinets
If you decide to install continuous flooring under your kitchen cabinets, here are some of the best options to consider:
Sheet Vinyl
Sheet vinyl is water-resistant, very affordable and installs in a single piece without seams. Self-adhesive vinyl makes DIY installation simple. Vinyl stands up well to kitchen spills and moisture.
Luxury Vinyl Plank
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) mimics hardwood or stone but is 100% waterproof. LVP looks high-end, is durable and installs with float or glue down methods. Many LVP products install quickly in a click-together floating floor.
Linoleum
Linoleum is a resilient, eco-friendly option made from natural materials. Available in tiles or sheets, linoleum is scratch and stain-resistant, naturally antimicrobial and stands up to kitchen wear. Durable linoleum lasts decades.
Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
For a seamless look, large format tiles or planks make narrow grout lines disappear. Porcelain tile is very durable and water-resistant. Use proper sealants for a long-lasting installation. Match grout color to tile.
Hardwood or Engineered Hardwood
Use moisture-resistant hardwood species like teak, Shorea or mahogany under cabinets to prevent swelling and damage from leaks. Engineered hardwood layered with a plywood or waterproof base provides stability.
Laminate Flooring
Many laminate floors today are highly water-resistant and hold up well in kitchens. Use premium laminate floor rated AC4 or better for durability. Laminate installs as a floating floor and is fairly affordable.
Epoxy Floor Coating
Epoxy creates a thick, glossy and seamless floor. It is extremely durable and waterproof. Epoxy resists stains, spills, impacts and heat well. It’s used often in commercial kitchens.
Tips for Installing Flooring Under Kitchen Cabinets
Follow these best practices to achieve a seamless, durable flooring installation under kitchen cabinets:
- Acclimate flooring on-site before installation to prevent expansion issues.
- Undercut door trim to slide flooring fully under cabinets without gaps.
- Use moisture barriers and vapor retarders to prevent subfloor moisture damage.
- Select lightweight flooring panels to make secure fastening easier.
- Test fit templates first before cutting flooring for non-square areas.
- Use durable adhesives like urethane or epoxy in wet cabinet areas.
- Apply wood filler along walls and seams for an even subfloor before installing.
- Check for protruding pipes, wires or vents that need openings cut in flooring.
- Use care when removing old flooring to avoid damaging the subfloor surface.
- Opt for DIY-friendly floors like LVP that click together for simple installation.
- Apply painter’s tape along walls before installation to prevent flooring from sliding.
- Check that floor height doesn’t conflict with cabinet base trim before selecting.
Do You Floor Under Kitchen Cabinets? Final Considerations
When deciding whether or not to install continuous flooring under your kitchen cabinets, weigh all the pros and cons carefully for your specific kitchen. Key factors like your flooring budget, desire for a seamless look, kitchen configuration and ease of installation and repair should drive your decision. If opting for continuous flooring, be sure to select appropriate materials and use best practices for successful installation. With proper planning upfront, you can achieve the beautiful, durable kitchen flooring design you have envisioned.