Installing new hardwood floors can dramatically transform the look and feel of your kitchen. But when it comes to installing hardwood under your kitchen cabinets, there are some important considerations. Here is a detailed look at whether or not you should install hardwood floors underneath kitchen cabinets.
Should You Install Hardwood Under Kitchen Cabinets?
There are pros and cons to installing hardwood floors under kitchen cabinets. Here are some of the key factors to consider:
Pros:
- Aesthetics – Hardwood flooring looks great and can create a seamless, uniform look in your kitchen. No transitions between cabinet areas and open floor spaces.
- Resale Value – Hardwood floors are a desired feature by many home buyers. Fully flooring the kitchen in hardwood can add value to your home.
- Toe Kick Access – With hardwood under cabinets, the toe kick area is still accessible for plumbing, electrical or other needs. This is harder with other floorings.
Cons:
- Cost – It is more expensive to install hardwood under cabinet areas due to difficulty. Many homeowners opt to use a cheaper flooring product like vinyl under cabinets.
- Harder Installation – It is more tedious and time-consuming to install hardwood under cabinets because of the tight spaces.
- Susceptible to Water Damage – Hardwood under a sink or dishwasher is at higher risk of water damage from leaks. This can lead to warping or staining issues.
- Flooring Expansion – Hardwood expands and contracts with humidity changes. This movement can affect cabinet stability if flooring is too tight against cabinets.
So whether or not to install comes down to your budget, kitchen design, and personal preference. Many homeowners choose to install hardwood everywhere for a seamless look. Others use an alternative flooring just under cabinets to save money.
Preparing for Hardwood Flooring Under Cabinets
If you do choose to install hardwood under your kitchen cabinets, special preparation is required:
- Leave proper expansion space between flooring and cabinets/walls. At least 1/4 inch is recommended.
- Understand that installing hardwood under cabinets will require custom-cutting many planks and pieces to fit around cabinet legs and edges.
- Use moisture barrier products to prevent water damage under appliances like refrigerators and sinks.
- Consider using engineered hardwood rather than solid hardwood. Engineered is more dimensionally stable.
- Let cabinets sit directly on top of the new hardwood floor, rather than on the subfloor, for stability.
Proper prep work makes for the most successful hardwood installation under cabinets. Planning ahead is key.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Installing hardwood flooring under kitchen cabinets can be tricky, but is manageable with care and patience. Follow these general steps:
1. Remove Existing Flooring as Needed
Remove any existing flooring under cabinet areas. Scrape or sand subfloor until smooth and even.
2. Undercut Door Jambs
Use a jamb saw to undercut all door jambs, so new flooring can fit underneath without issue.
3. Install Moisture Barriers
Place 6 mil plastic moisture barriers under sink, dishwasher, refrigerator and any other water-prone areas.
4. Begin General Flooring Installation
Follow the normal hardwood installation process, up until cabinets need to be worked around.
5. Custom Cut Flooring as Needed
Precisely measure and custom cut planks to fit around cabinets legs, edges and other obstructions.
6. Slide Flooring Into Place
Gently slide custom cut pieces into place under cabinets. Use pull bar if needed.
7. Secure Flooring
Carefully use a tapping block to tap flooring into final position under cabinets without damaging planks.
8. Use Finishing Nails
Finish by using finishing nails through tongue to secure flooring planks around cabinetry.
9. Complete Remaining Floor
Install any remaining flooring in open areas, completing the kitchen floor.
10. Install Trim Pieces
Add any transition pieces, quarter round or baseboard trim last to finish the job.
Take things slowly and carefully measure as you go for the best results installing hardwood under kitchen cabinets.
Tips for Protecting Hardwood Under Cabinets
Once your new hardwood floor is fully installed under your kitchen cabinets, follow these tips to keep it protected:
- Use area rugs in high traffic zones to prevent wear and scratches.
- Apply floor protectors to bottom of furniture legs to prevent scuffing.
- Immediately wipe up any water spills or leaks under appliances.
- Consider using a plastic mat under rolling chairs to prevent denting.
- Maintain proper humidity levels in your home to minimize hardwood expansion/contraction.
- Sweep and mop floors regularly using proper hardwood cleaners.
With proper care, your hardwood floors can last for many years, even in the high-use kitchen space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I leave expansion space under cabinets for hardwood to expand?
Yes, it is recommended to leave at least 1/4 inch expansion space between hardwood planks and kitchen cabinets. Hardwood naturally expands and contracts with humidity changes. Proper expansion room prevents buckling issues.
What kind of wood is best for under kitchen cabinets?
Engineered hardwoods are a good choice for areas under kitchen cabinets. The cross-ply construction is more dimensionally stable than solid wood. Popular options include oak, hickory, maple or exotic species.
Is it okay to install cabinets on top of new hardwood floors?
Yes, installing cabinets directly on top of the finished hardwood floor provides the most stability. Just be sure to leave proper expansion space around all edges.
Should I use moisture barriers when installing hardwood under appliances?
Definitely yes. Use plastic moisture barrier products beneath sinks, dishwashers, refrigerators and other areas prone to leaks. This prevents water damage to wood flooring in case of a leak.
Can I comfortably access plumbing and electric under cabinets with hardwood installed?
Yes. Unlike some flooring materials, hardwood boards can be easily removed and reinstalled if access is needed under cabinet areas to plumbing, electrical or other house systems.
Conclusion
Installing hardwood flooring under kitchen cabinets creates a beautiful, seamless look. But it also takes more time, money and preparation compared to using an alternative flooring product. Consider your budget, flooring goals and style preferences. With careful planning and installation, hardwood under cabinets can transform the look of your kitchen. Protect the floors properly after installation, and they can last for many enjoyable years in the kitchen.