Installing new flooring can dramatically update the look and feel of your kitchen. However, one decision you’ll need to make is whether to install the new flooring under your existing kitchen cabinets or leave the current flooring under the cabinets intact. There are pros and cons to both approaches that are worth considering.

What Are the Benefits of Installing New Flooring Under Kitchen Cabinets?

There are several potential benefits to installing new flooring under your kitchen cabinets:

Aesthetics

From a visual perspective, installing flooring under the cabinets can create a more seamless, integrated look. Having flooring that runs continuously under the cabinets makes the floor appear larger and more expansive. It also avoids an obvious change in flooring materials that can look disjointed and odd.

Easier Cleaning

With continuous flooring under cabinets, there are no cracks or seams that can collect dirt, crumbs and spills. This makes cleaning the kitchen floor much simpler as you can sweep or mop without having to work around cabinet edges.

Fewer Tripping Hazards

Separate flooring under cabinets can create slight height differences and uneven surfaces which can potentially pose tripping hazards. Continuous flooring minimizes this issue.

Cabinets Appear to Float

The uninterrupted flow of new flooring under the cabinets creates the illusion that the cabinets are floating or suspended above the floor. This can add a modern, sleek look to the kitchen’s design.

Increased Resale Value

Continuous flooring is viewed as a more premium update. This could help boost your home’s resale value compared to leaving the existing flooring under cabinets.

Long-Term Durability

If the existing flooring under cabinets is worn, damaged or dated, replacing it with new flooring can improve longevity and avoid more repairs down the road.

What Are the Reasons to Keep Existing Flooring Under Cabinets?

On the other hand, here are some of the benefits of leaving your current flooring intact under kitchen cabinets:

Cost Savings

Leaving the existing flooring avoids the cost of the additional materials needed to extend new flooring under cabinets. It can make the project more affordable.

Less Work

Installing new flooring only in exposed areas is a simpler process as you don’t have to cut pieces to fit under cabinets or work around plumbing. This may allow you to tackle DIY installation more easily.

Lower Disruption

If the existing flooring is in decent shape, keeping it avoids having to clear out cabinet contents and potentially detach and move cabinets to install flooring underneath.

Matching Flooring

If your cabinet style or color doesn’t work well with the new flooring you want to install, keeping the existing flooring under cabinets can allow you to match and transition between the two more seamlessly.

Salvaging Usable Flooring

If the current flooring under cabinets is still in good condition, keeping it avoids scrapping flooring that still has plenty of useful life left.

Easier Access for Repairs

Leaving existing flooring provides easier access to kitchen plumbing and electrical systems if repairs are needed down the road. Cutting out and replacing continuous flooring would likely be more complex.

Key Considerations When Deciding About Flooring Under Cabinets

When weighing your options, keep the following important factors in mind:

Condition of Current Flooring

If your existing kitchen flooring is worn, damaged or visibly outdated, replacement may make more sense than leaving as-is under cabinets. But if it’s still in serviceable shape, keeping it may be the better choice.

Flooring Material

Certain flooring materials like hardwood or resilient vinyl planks are better suited to running seamlessly under cabinets than softer materials prone to indentations like carpeting.

Cabinet Install Method

Floor-mounted or freestanding cabinets are easier to work around when installing continuous flooring vs. cabinets screwed directly into the floor.

Plumbing and Electrical

If your kitchen will need any plumbing or electrical work during remodeling, continuing flooring under cabinets may complicate access compared to keeping the existing floors.

Budget

Your budget may determine feasibility. Continuous flooring often adds material costs but can elevate the overall look of the space.

Skill Level

DIYers may find it easier to avoid custom cutting and installing flooring underneath cabinets which requires more precision.

Resale Plans

Those looking to sell soon may get more return on investment by extending new flooring under cabinets rather than leaving a disjointed floor.

Best Practices for Installing Flooring Under Kitchen Cabinets

If you decide to install new flooring under your kitchen cabinets, follow these top tips for the best results:

Choose Appropriate Flooring

Pick a durable, low-profile material like vinyl plank, linoleum or laminate that can be precisely cut to fit under cabinets and around plumbing. Soft carpeting or natural stone are not ideal choices.

Remove Doors and Drawers

Detaching cabinet doors, drawers and pulls lets you easily access the area underneath and provides more room to maneuver for installation.

Undercut Door Jambs

Use a jamb saw to undercut door casings and jambs so the new flooring can slip underneath without leaving gaps.

Undercut Cabinets

If possible, undercut the bottom edge of cabinet overhangs and toe kicks so flooring can run under smoothly without pressure points.

Mind the Gaps

When cutting flooring pieces, leave a small 1/8-1/4 inch gap around cabinet edges for expansion and to prevent buckling. Use matching colored caulk to fill gaps.

Start at One End

To make lining up lengths easier, begin full floor installation at one end of the cabinets and work your way across to the other end.

Pattern and Direction Matters

Ensure flooring grain or pattern runs parallel under cabinets for a cohesive look. Install flooring perpendicular to cabinets.

Use Spacers

Spacers placed against cabinets hold flooring at the proper height as adhesive dries so joints stay tight and flat.

Be Precise

Take time to measure twice and cut carefully so seams under cabinets are snug with no gaps, overlaps or peaked joints.

Protect New Flooring

Cover installed flooring under cabinets with cardboard or kraft paper while replacing cabinets to prevent scuffs and damage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Installing Flooring Under Kitchen Cabinets

How much extra will it cost to install flooring under cabinets?

The added cost can range from $200-800 depending on kitchen size and flooring type. The most affordable option is laminate while natural stone and hardwood will be pricier.

Should I remove the cabinets or keep them in place?

As long as cabinets are freestanding or floor-mounted, you can typically work around them. This prevents the added step of detaching and releveling fixed cabinets.

Can I install LVT flooring under cabinets?

Yes, luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is an excellent flooring choice for under kitchen cabinets. Waterproof, durable and easy to cut, LVT comes in wood or stone looks. Just leave small expansion gaps.

What about using underlayment under cabinets?

Underlayment is not required under cabinets as the flooring will be fully supported. Using a thin foam underlayment in other exposed areas can help minimize noise transfer.

Should I run flooring under the fridge and stove?

It’s recommended to avoid running continuous flooring under appliances as they will need to be pulled out for future service. Use flooring up to the appliance edge only.

How should I handle transitions to other rooms?

Use transition strips or thresholds to bridge the new kitchen flooring to adjacent spaces. The floor height should match, but materials can differ between rooms.

Can I install click-together flooring under cabinets?

While convenient, most click or floating floors should not run under fixed objects like cabinets that prevent the planks from moving. Loose lay vinyl planks are an exception.

Conclusion

The choice of whether to install new flooring only in exposed areas or to continue it under kitchen cabinets comes down to budget, effort and the look you want to achieve. Extending unified flooring can provide a seamless, integrated aesthetic while leaving existing flooring may be simpler and more affordable. If you do opt for continuous flooring, be sure to follow best practices for tight seams and clean transitions. With some careful planning, you can end up with a kitchen floor that looks fantastic and functions flawlessly.

Should You Replace Flooring Under Kitchen Cabinets When Remodeling?

When remodeling your kitchen, one decision you’ll face is whether you should replace the flooring only in the exposed areas or run all new flooring continuously underneath the existing cabinets. There are good arguments on both sides of this issue. Here are some tips to help you decide the best approach for your situation.

Factors to Consider

Several important considerations come into play when determining if you should replace flooring under kitchen cabinets:

• Condition of current flooring – If your current flooring is badly worn, damaged, or visibly outdated only under the cabinets, full replacement may make sense. But if it’s in decent shape overall, replacement may not be required.
• Flooring material – Some materials like vinyl and laminate are better suited to going under cabinets than carpeting or natural stone. The flooring you choose will impact the decision.
• Cost – Continuous new flooring often costs more in materials to extend under cabinets. Leaving existing flooring saves money.
• Effort level – Not replacing flooring under cabinets is an easier installation usually. Fitting new flooring around plumbing can take more work.
• Kitchen layout – Accessing the area under cabinets may be difficult depending on kitchen configuration. A more open layout allows easier installation.
• Cabinet installation method – Floor-mounted cabinets are simpler to work around versus cabinets screwed directly into the floor when installing new flooring underneath.
• Future plans – If you intend to replace cabinets again soon, avoiding new under-cabinet flooring may be better so you don’t have to remove a barely used floor later.

Pros of Replacing Flooring Under Cabinets

There are several good reasons to take on the task of replacing flooring under kitchen cabinets:

• Consistent look – Continuous flooring creates a more seamless, integrated aesthetic compared to obvious transitions between materials.
• Easier cleaning – Flooring that runs under cabinets has fewer seams and edges to trap dirt. Mopping is simpler.
• Smoother surface – Eliminating height variances between flooring materials can prevent potential tripping hazards.
• Cabinets appear suspended – Uninterrupted flooring promotes the stylish illusion that cabinets are floating above the floor.
• Increased home value – Updating flooring under cabinets is viewed as a more premium remodel option that appeals to buyers.
• Longevity – Replacing worn out under-cabinet flooring with fresh new material promotes longevity and avoids deterioration.

Pros of Keeping Existing Flooring Under Cabinets

On the other hand, maintaining your current flooring under cabinets has its own advantages:

• Cost savings – Keeping your existing flooring is the less expensive option since you don’t need added materials.
• Less work – Avoiding custom trimming and fitting flooring around plumbing simplifies the installation process.
• Minimized disruption – You won’t have to clear out lower cabinets or potentially detach cabinets from walls to replace flooring.
• Usable life left – If your current under-cabinet flooring is structurally sound, keeping it avoids waste and saves you money.
• Easy access for repairs – Leaving original flooring makes it simpler to access pipes or wires if repairs are needed down the road.
• Matching floors – Keeping consistent flooring under cabinets allows you to bridge old and new materials more seamlessly.

Final Recommendations

Here are some final tips on deciding whether or not to replace flooring under kitchen cabinets during a remodel:

• Take time to thoroughly inspect under-cabinet floors for any damage or defects.
• Consider your budget constraints – continuous new flooring costs more upfront.
• Think about ease of installation based on your skill level and kitchen layout.
• Continuous flooring maximizes aesthetic appeal if you’re aiming for a high-end kitchen update.
• Weigh future access needs for repairs if considering encapsulating pipes and wires.
• Talk to your flooring installer for advice based on the material you want to use.

While the “right” solution depends on your particular situation, following these guidelines can help you make the best and most informed choice for your kitchen flooring refresh.

Choosing Flooring Materials to Use Under Kitchen Cabinets

Selecting the right type of flooring to install under kitchen cabinets requires considering factors like durability, ease of cleaning, and how easily the material can be cut to fit into a confined space. You’ll want an attractive flooring option that can withstand potential spills, drops, chair scrapes, and heavy appliance loads in a high-traffic kitchen area. Here are some of the best options to consider:

Vinyl Plank Flooring

Vinyl plank flooring is one of the most popular choices for under kitchen cabinets today. Made from PVC, it’s affordable, waterproof, and easy to install and cut. Many styles accurately mimic the look of natural wood or stone. The planks don’t scratch or dent easily and the waterproof barrier makes spills and cleaning simple. Just be sure to leave small expansion gaps around cabinets.

Laminate Flooring

Laminate offers an appealing wood look at a budget-friendly price point. The laminate top layer is scratch and stain-resistant while the core layer is water-resistant. This makes it a good choice for busy kitchens. Just avoid excessive water exposure. Laminate snaps together easily but may need additional trim molding under cabinets.

Luxury Vinyl Tile

Like vinyl plank, luxury vinyl tile (LVT) resists water damage and stands up well to impacts and scratches. LVT comes in a wide variety of stone and wood looks. The rigid LVT flooring can be cut with precision to fit under cabinets and installed using grout or adhesive. LVT is more expensive than standard vinyl but provides great durability.

Sheet Vinyl

Sheet vinyl is flexible, affordable, and comes in a wide range of colors and patterns. Seamless vinyl sheets can be trimmed to fit under cabinets with no gaps or ridges. Look for commercial-grade vinyl for high-traffic areas. Installation requires adhesive and may necessitate undercutting cabinet bases.

Porcelain Tile

Porcelain ceramic tile offers a classic, elegant look for kitchen floors. Extremely durable and water-resistant, porcelain tile comes in various sizes for ease of install. Use smaller tiles under cabinets to fill narrow spaces. Grout lines may be harder to keep clean. Irregular tiles promote better adhesion.

Natural Stone Tile

Slate, marble, and granite make beautiful kitchen flooring options, though these more fragile natural stones may be prone to cracking or chipping under heavy cabinets. Make sure to use a smoother stone and wide grout lines. Stone conducts heat well but can be cool underfoot.

Laminated Wood

Laminated wood offers the warmth and appeal of real wood in easy to install planks. Combining a solid wood veneer with a plywood or fiberboard core creates planks that are simple to cut and durable under cabinets. Matching wood grain patterns between boards takes some skill.

Bamboo Flooring

Made from renewable grass, bamboo is a green, sustainable choice. Strand woven bamboo composed of compressed wood shreds is the best type for under-cabinet wear resistance. Bamboo needs careful sealing to withstand moisture. Matching horizontal grain during install takes precision.

No matter what material you select, always leave a 1/8-inch expansion gap between the flooring and the walls of cabinet bases. This allows room for the flooring to shift without buckling. With careful installation, you can achieve seamless, durable and beautiful flooring under your kitchen cabinets.

How to Effectively Clean Under Kitchen Cabinets

The space under kitchen cabinets often ends up collecting dirt and dust over time. While out of sight, it’s important to regularly clean under cabinets to prevent buildup and keep your kitchen hygienic. Here are some tips for effectively cleaning and maintaining under your kitchen cabinets:

Clear Out Cabinet Contents

Remove everything from undercabinet storage to allow full access to the area. Take out drawers, shelves and any appliances/cookware inside. This also allows you to fully clean stored items later before replacing.

Use a Vacuum

Use the hose attachment and crevice tool on your vacuum cleaner to suck up loose debris like crumbs, dirt and dust bunnies under cabinets. Run the vacuum over floors, walls and cabinet bases.

Wash with All-Purpose Cleaner

Mix warm water and a small amount of mild, eco-friendly all-purpose cleaner in a bucket. Dip clean cloths into the solution to wipe down cabinet bases, walls and floors under your cabinets.

Scrub With a Soft Brush

Use a soft-bristled scrub brush dipped in the cleaning solution to gently scrub tougher grime and splatters that may be stuck on walls or cabinet bases under the counters.

Rinse Thoroughly

Take a clean, damp microfiber cloth and wipe under cabinets to rinse away any soap residue after scrubbing. You don’t want to leave any cleaner chemicals behind on your floors or cabinets.

Deal With Grease Buildup

To cut through oily grease that collects under ranges or around vent hoods, use a degreasing spray cleaner specifically formulated to dissolve oil and grease before wiping clean.

Freshen With Baking Soda

Sprinkle baking soda liberally under cabinets and let sit for 15-20 minutes before vacuuming up. Baking soda naturally deodorizes and absorbs musty smells.

Prevent Future Dust Buildup

Install plastic or vinyl shields that affix under cabinets with magnets to catch future dust and