The Why and When of Hardwood Flooring Under Cabinets: Do Hardwood Floors Go Under Kitchen Cabinets
It’s a common question: should you extend your hardwood flooring under your kitchen cabinets? There are both pros and cons to consider, and the best choice often depends on your specific kitchen layout and personal preferences.
Benefits of Extending Hardwood Flooring
Extending your hardwood flooring under your kitchen cabinets can offer several advantages. It creates a seamless and visually appealing look, making your kitchen feel larger and more unified. It also provides a more practical surface for cleaning, as dust and debris can easily accumulate under cabinets if there’s a different flooring material. This can be especially helpful in high-traffic areas like the kitchen.
Drawbacks of Stopping at the Cabinet Line
While extending hardwood flooring under cabinets can be appealing, there are also some drawbacks to consider. The most significant concern is the potential for damage to the flooring. If your cabinets are not properly installed or if they shift over time, they can potentially scratch or dent the flooring underneath. Additionally, if you choose to replace your cabinets in the future, you may need to replace the flooring underneath as well, adding to the cost and hassle of the project.
Suitable Kitchen Layouts, Do hardwood floors go under kitchen cabinets
Extending hardwood flooring under cabinets is most suitable in kitchens with open layouts, where the cabinets are not too deep and there is a clear visual connection between the flooring and the rest of the room. This can help to create a sense of flow and continuity in the space. It’s also a good choice for kitchens with island cabinets, as it helps to unify the entire cooking and dining area.
Less Desirable Scenarios
Extending hardwood flooring under cabinets may be less desirable in kitchens with deep cabinets, particularly if the cabinets are close to the walls. This can create a sense of crowding and make the space feel smaller. It’s also not a good idea if your cabinets are very old or unstable, as they may be more prone to shifting and damaging the flooring.
Installation Considerations and Techniques
Installing hardwood flooring under kitchen cabinets is a task that requires careful planning and execution. It’s a bit trickier than installing flooring in a wide-open space, but with the right tools and techniques, you can achieve a seamless and professional-looking finish.
Preparing the Subfloor
The subfloor is the foundation for your hardwood flooring, so it needs to be level and stable. If you’re working with an existing subfloor, inspect it for any signs of damage, such as cracks, gaps, or soft spots. You’ll need to address these issues before you start installing the flooring.
- If the subfloor is uneven, you can use shims or leveling compound to bring it to the proper level.
- If the subfloor is damaged, you may need to replace it entirely.
- Ensure the subfloor is clean and free of debris before installing the hardwood flooring.
Installing Hardwood Flooring Under Cabinets
Installing hardwood flooring under cabinets requires precision and patience. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved:
- Measure and Cut: Measure the space under the cabinets and cut the hardwood planks to fit. It’s important to account for the thickness of the flooring when measuring.
- Installation Method: You can choose to install the flooring using nails, staples, or glue. The method you choose will depend on the type of hardwood flooring and the subfloor.
- Starting Point: Begin installation in a corner of the space under the cabinets, working your way outwards. Make sure the first row of planks is perfectly aligned.
- Tapping and Spacing: Use a tapping block and mallet to gently tap the planks into place. Leave a small gap between each plank to allow for expansion and contraction.
- Under-Cabinet Transition: When you reach the cabinets, you’ll need to cut the planks to fit snugly underneath. You can use a jigsaw or a circular saw to make these cuts.
Challenges of Installing Hardwood Flooring Under Cabinets
Installing hardwood flooring under existing cabinets can present a few challenges:
- Limited Access: Working under cabinets can be cramped and difficult, especially if you have low ceilings.
- Cabinet Movement: If the cabinets are not properly secured, they may move during installation, which can disrupt the flooring alignment.
- Cutting and Fitting: Cutting and fitting the planks under the cabinets requires precision and care to avoid damaging the cabinets or the flooring.
Transitioning Between Flooring Under Cabinets and the Rest of the Kitchen
The transition between the flooring under the cabinets and the flooring in the rest of the kitchen should be seamless and aesthetically pleasing. Here are a few methods for achieving this:
- T-Molding: T-molding is a common transition strip that can be used to create a smooth transition between different flooring types. It is installed along the edge of the flooring under the cabinets.
- Schluter Strips: Schluter strips are another popular option for transitions. They come in a variety of styles and colors to match your flooring.
- Flush Transition: If you’re installing the same type of flooring throughout the kitchen, you can create a flush transition by carefully cutting the planks to fit under the cabinets. This method requires more precision but can result in a more seamless look.
Do hardwood floors go under kitchen cabinets – The question of whether hardwood floors go under kitchen cabinets often depends on personal preference and the style of the cabinets. For a classic look, consider router shaker cabinet doors , which complement hardwood floors beautifully. This style, with its clean lines and simple design, provides a timeless elegance that blends seamlessly with the warmth of hardwood.
Ultimately, the choice is yours, but the combination of hardwood floors and shaker cabinets can create a truly inviting and cohesive kitchen space.
The question of whether hardwood floors go under kitchen cabinets is a matter of personal preference and practicality. Some prefer the seamless look of a continuous floor, while others prioritize cost savings. If you’re on a budget, consider purchasing unfinished cabinet boxes without doors and installing them directly on the subfloor.
This approach allows for a more budget-friendly option while still achieving a stylish kitchen design. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your individual needs and priorities.
