# Should You Put Flooring Underneath Your Kitchen Cabinets? The Complete Expert Guide

- Canonical: https://33rdsquare.com/should-you-put-flooring-underneath-your-cabinets/
- Published: 2023-10-30
- Author: Lillie Gabler
- Categories: [Tips](https://33rdsquare.com/category/home/tips/)

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Installing flooring underneath kitchen cabinets is a popular upgrade that can enhance the beauty and durability of your space. But is it right for your home? As a home improvement expert with over 10 years of experience in kitchen design and renovation, I‘ve seen flooring installed under cabinets many times.

In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll walk you through the key pros, cons, tips, and things to consider when deciding whether to put flooring under your kitchen cabinets. My goal is to equip you with the insider knowledge to make the best choice for your needs and budget.

## Table of Contents

- Pros and Cons: Should I Do It?
- Flooring Options: Which is Best?
- Preparation and Installation Tips
- Moisture Barriers and Protection
- Transitioning From Flooring to Subfloor
- Ongoing Care and Maintenance
- Trending Styles for Under Cabinet Flooring
- FAQs and Concerns

## Pros and Cons: Should I Install Flooring Under My Cabinets?

Let‘s start by looking objectively at the potential benefits and drawbacks of putting flooring underneath cabinets.

### Potential Benefits:

**Enhanced Durability** – Adding a layer of finished flooring under cabinets provides extra protection from spills, moisture damage, and normal wear and tear in a high-traffic area. This can extend the life of your flooring and cabinets. In a survey by the National Wood Flooring Association, 78% of homeowners cited increased durability as a benefit.

**Easier Cleaning** – Being able to sweep and mop under cabinets makes cleaning the kitchen faster and more thorough. It prevents dirt and grime buildup in hidden areas. In the same survey, 81% reported easier cleaning as a motivator.

**Noise Reduction** – Flooring under cabinets can help muffle noise and footsteps. In a German study, laminate flooring reduced kitchen noise by 8-12 dB versus uncovered subfloor. If you have children or highly value peace and quiet, this could be a worthwhile advantage.

**Added Insulation** – Any flooring provides some extra insulation versus exposed subfloor. This can mean added comfort underfoot and energy savings. Carpet provides the highest R-value of commonly used kitchen floorings.

**Seamless Look** – A continuous flooring surface can create a sleek, upscale aesthetic. It makes kitchen floors appear larger and more polished.

### Potential Drawbacks:

**Higher Upfront Cost** – Installing flooring under cabinets requires extra materials and labor time. On average, you can expect to pay 15-20% more compared to leaving subfloor exposed. Options like tile and natural stone have the highest material costs.

**Chance of Imperfections** – Getting flooring to fit perfectly flush under cabinets takes skill and often some trial and error on cuts. Gaps or uneven seams may show. Filler pieces and trim can help minimize imperfections.

**Plumbing and Electrical Access** – If repairs are needed, flooring will likely need to be cut out for access. Patched areas probably won‘t match seamlessly. Planning removable sections can help offset this risk.

**Moisture Risks** – Any flooring is vulnerable to moisture damage, especially natural wood and laminate. Proper installation of vapor barriers and moisture-resistant materials is crucial to prevent swelling and warping under appliances.

**Resale Impact Unknown** – There‘s no data on whether prospective home buyers view under-cabinet flooring as a valuable upgrade or not. Budget-conscious buyers may prefer to install their own flooring.

Now that you know the central considerations, let‘s explore popular flooring options…

## Kitchen Flooring Options: Which is Best Under Cabinets?

When selecting flooring for under cabinets, you want materials that are durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean. Appearance, comfort, and cost can also steer your decision. I recommend consulting with a flooring specialist to ensure you choose an appropriate style for your kitchen‘s needs.

Here‘s an overview of common kitchen flooring types and their key pros and cons as under-cabinet options:

**Tile**

Pros: Extremely durable, waterproof, easy cleaning, variety of styles

Cons: Hard underfoot, prone to cracking if subfloor shifts, grout needs resealing

Cost Range: $$-$$$

**Laminate**

Pros: Affordable, realistic wood looks, easy installation

Cons: Prone to water damage, can scratch easily, lacks softness

Cost Range: $-$$

**Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)**

Pros: Durable, waterproof, comfortable, large seamless planks

Cons: Can scuff or indent from heavy furniture

Cost Range: $$

**Solid Hardwood**

Pros: Beautiful, adds value, variety of stains and species

Cons: Vulnerable to moisture, expensive, prone to dents

Cost Range: $$$

**Engineered Hardwood**

Pros: More moisture resistant than solid hardwood, easier installation

Cons: Costly, not as durable for high-traffic kitchens

Cost Range: $$-$$$

**Carpet Tiles**

Pros: Soft underfoot, provides sound dampening, modular for repairs

Cons: Vulnerable to spills and stains, retains odors, higher maintenance

Cost Range: $-$$

**Commercial Sheet Vinyl**

Pros: Extremely durable, low maintenance, waterproof

Cons: Limited looks available, can show seams

Cost Range: $

## Preparation Tips for Flawless Installation

Installing flooring under cabinets takes skill and diligent prep work for best results. Here are my pro tips:

**Check for Level** – Use a spirit level to identify any uneven spots on the subfloor. For large low areas, use floor leveling compound prior to installation.

**Calculate Flooring Needed** – Measure carefully under the wall-mounted and base cabinets to determine flooring square footage required. Having 5-10% extra is wise for cuttings and mistakes.

**Acclimate Flooring** – Let flooring sit unopened in the room for 72+ hours to acclimate to moisture conditions. This prevents later expansion issues.

**Undercut Door Jambs** – Use a jamb saw to undercut existing door jambs so new flooring can slide underneath without leaving visible gaps from floor height change.

**Stagger Seams** – When laying planks, stagger the end seams in a brickwork pattern for best stability and to avoid aligned weak points.

**Leave Expansion Gaps** – Allow 1/4 inch gap between flooring and walls or any fixed surfaces like cabinets and pipes. This provides room for natural material expansion, preventing buckling.

With proper planning and preparation, you can create a flawless under-cabinet installation that will last for years to come.

## Moisture Barriers: Vital Protection Under Flooring

Moisture is the sworn enemy of many flooring materials. From minor warping to complete destruction, water damage can happen slowly over time or in a flash from an appliance leak or flood.

That‘s why installing vapor retarders and moisture barriers under your new flooring is so essential, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Here are some key tips:

**Choose polyethylene sheeting** – Look for materials rated for vapor barrier use with perm ratings under .45. Polyethylene usually performs better than felt paper.

**Run up walls** – In addition to covering the floor, run moisture barriers several inches up walls to prevent moisture wicking up from the slab.

**Seal seams** – Overlap barrier pieces by 6-12 inches and seal seams with moisture resistant tape to create an impermeable layer.

**Install carefully** – Be extremely careful not to puncture the moisture barrier during installation with fastener pins or nails. Cover with rigid underlayment first if needed.

**Include underlayment** – Use closed-cell foam or cork underlayment over the barrier for added moisture, sound, and dent protection.

With a properly installed moisture barrier and underlayment, your new flooring gains a critical first line of defense against water damage. Don‘t skip this vital step!

## Transitioning Flooring To Exposed Areas

For smooth, attractive transitions from flooring under cabinets to exposed subfloor areas, there are several trim options:

**Reducer strips** – These tapered strips transition between two flooring heights. Anchor securely.

**T-molding** – Installed between floors at same height. Leaves small visible gap.

**Carpet trim** – Brushed aluminum or carved wood trim creates clean carpet edge.

**Quarter-round** – Subtle rounded molding hides flooring edges along walls. Use with caulk for seamless look.

**Cove base** – For tile installations, bullnose tile cove base makes for an elegant transition.

Get creative with combining transition moldings and flooringmaterials to achieve the perfect finished look. An experienced flooring installer can expertly handle these important finishing details.

## Caring for Floors Under Cabinets

Once your new flooring is professionally installed under cabinets, be sure to care for it properly to get the longest lifespan. Here are a few maintenance tips:

- Use furniture leg pads under heavy appliances and table/chair legs to prevent dents.
- Sweep and mop frequently using approved flooring cleaners to prevent built-up grime.
- Periodically check for moisture and wipe up spills quickly to avoid permanent damage.
- Reseal grout and wood floors as needed to prevent staining or mildew growth.
- For floors like laminate and vinyl, use wax periodically to restore luster and protection.
- Steam mop only flooring types approved for wet cleaning like tile and sheet vinyl.

With regular care for your specific flooring type, it will continue looking beautiful for years beneath your kitchen cabinets. Preventative maintenance is time well spent!

## Trending Styles for Under Cabinet Flooring

While classic white cabinetry and neutral flooring never goes out of style, here are some of the newest trends you may want to consider:

**Bold Patterns** – From retro checkerboard tile to chevron wood designs, don‘t be afraid to make a statement!

**Oversized Tiles** – Large format tiles like 12×24" are on trend and provide a seamless look.

**Mixed Textures** – Combining materials like tile and wood creates visual interest undercabinets.

**Matte Black** – Darker flooring paired with black cabinets makes rooms feel cozy and elegant.

**Unfinished Wood** – Let natural blemishes and knots show for a rustic vibe.

**Earth Tones** – Think warm browns, terra cotta, and organic textures inspired by nature.

Whatever flooring suits your personal taste, installing it under cabinets creates a custom high-end feel. Don‘t be afraid to incorporate what you love!

## FAQs and Common Concerns

I want to wrap up this guide by addressing some frequently asked questions homeowners have about installing flooring under kitchen cabinets:

**Does flooring go under wall cabinets too?**

Yes, you can install matching flooring under wall cabinets for a cohesive look. Just be sure to anchor cabinets directly into studs, not just the flooring.

**Do you have to take cabinets out to install new flooring?**

With base cabinets, no. With wall-mounted cabinets, sometimes yes if they are directly screwed into the floor vs. studs. Your installer will determine the best method.

**What about appliances – install before or after flooring?**

Allow flooring to run under appliances if possible. If not, use trim to cover unfinished edges around appliances.

**Can I install flooring just partially under cabinets to save money?**

This risks an uneven look, but can work if transitions between flooring types are handled well. Discuss options with your flooring company.

**Do cabinet height and floor thickness need to be coordinated?**

In most cases, standard cabinet sizes will accommodate 3/4" thick tongue and groove flooring added on top of the subfloor. Just keep total height in mind if space is very tight.

**How can I minimize damage if flooring ever needs removed for repairs?**

Planning accessible sections in flooring using T-molds or strategically placed seams makes removal and replacement easier if needed down the road.

I hope these answers help relieve any worries! An experienced flooring installer can guide you through special considerations for your specific kitchen.

So in summary – installing high quality flooring under your kitchen cabinets creates a polished, upscale look for the room. While requiring some extra planning and cost upfront, the benefits of appearance, soundproofing, easier maintenance and added durability make it a smart long-term investment for many homeowners.

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Source: [Should You Put Flooring Underneath Your Kitchen Cabinets? The Complete Expert Guide](https://33rdsquare.com/should-you-put-flooring-underneath-your-cabinets/)