Do You Install Hardwood Floors Under Kitchen Cabinets?

When I was renovating my kitchen, I had a big question in my mind – should I install hardwood floors under my kitchen cabinets? After a lot of research and consulting with professionals, I finally found the answer. In this article, I will share my personal experience and provide a step-by-step guide, top 10 tips, pros and cons, and my personal review and suggestion on whether you should install hardwood floors under your kitchen cabinets.

Step-by-Step Guide for Current Trends on “Do You Install Hardwood Floors Under Kitchen Cabinets?”

Step 1: Choose the Right Hardwood Flooring

Before you start installing hardwood floors under your kitchen cabinets, make sure to choose the right hardwood flooring. Hardwood floors are available in different types, such as solid, engineered, and laminate. Solid hardwood floors are the most durable and long-lasting, but they are also the most expensive. Engineered hardwood floors are more affordable and suitable for kitchens with high humidity levels. Laminate floors are the least expensive and easy to install, but they are not as durable as solid or engineered hardwood floors.

Step 2: Prepare the Kitchen Cabinets

Before you install hardwood floors, you need to prepare the kitchen cabinets. If your cabinets are already installed, remove the toe kicks, which are the small strips of wood at the bottom of the cabinets. This will make it easier to install the hardwood floors and will also prevent any gaps between the cabinets and the floors.

Step 3: Install the Hardwood Floors

Now it’s time to install the hardwood floors. Start from the farthest corner of the room and work your way towards the door. Make sure to leave a gap of at least 1/2 inch between the walls and the hardwood floors to allow for expansion. Use a pneumatic flooring nailer to secure the hardwood floors to the subfloor.

Step 4: Install the Kitchen Cabinets

After the hardwood floors are installed, it’s time to install the kitchen cabinets. Make sure to level the cabinets and secure them to the walls. Use shims to fill any gaps between the cabinets and the walls. Do not nail or screw the cabinets to the hardwood floors, as this can cause damage to the floors and prevent them from expanding and contracting.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas on “Do You Install Hardwood Floors Under Kitchen Cabinets?”

Choose the right hardwood flooring for your kitchen.
Make sure to leave a gap of at least 1/2 inch between the walls and the hardwood floors.
Remove the toe kicks from the cabinets before installing the hardwood floors.
Level the cabinets before installing them.
Use shims to fill any gaps between the cabinets and the walls.
Do not nail or screw the cabinets to the hardwood floors.
Install the hardwood floors before the cabinets to prevent any gaps or damage.
Consult with a professional before installing hardwood floors in your kitchen.
Consider the maintenance and durability of the hardwood floors.
Take your time and do it right to ensure the longevity of your hardwood floors and kitchen cabinets.

Pros and Cons “Do You Install Hardwood Floors Under Kitchen Cabinets?”

Pros:

Hardwood floors look beautiful and add value to your home.
Installing hardwood floors under your kitchen cabinets can create a seamless and uniform look.
Hardwood floors are durable and long-lasting, and can withstand heavy foot traffic and spills.

Cons:

Installing hardwood floors under your kitchen cabinets can be more difficult and time-consuming.
Hardwood floors can be more expensive than other flooring options.
Hardwood floors require regular maintenance and may need to be refinished over time.

My Personal Review and Suggestion on “Do You Install Hardwood Floors Under Kitchen Cabinets?”

After installing hardwood floors under my kitchen cabinets, I can say that it was worth it. The hardwood floors look beautiful and create a seamless and uniform look in my kitchen. However, it did take more time and effort to install the floors, and I have to be careful with spills and scratches. Overall, I would recommend installing hardwood floors under your kitchen cabinets if you are willing to invest the time and money into it and if you want a beautiful and durable flooring option.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: Can I install hardwood floors under existing kitchen cabinets?

A: Yes, you can install hardwood floors under existing kitchen cabinets, but you need to remove the toe kicks first and make sure to leave a gap between the cabinets and the floors to allow for expansion.

Q: What type of hardwood flooring is best for kitchens?

A: Engineered hardwood flooring is best for kitchens because it is more resistant to moisture and humidity than solid hardwood flooring.

Q: How much does it cost to install hardwood floors under kitchen cabinets?

A: The cost to install hardwood floors under kitchen cabinets depends on the type of hardwood flooring, the size of the kitchen, and the labor costs. On average, it can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000.