We’ve all been there: staring at our tired, outdated kitchen floors, dreaming of a fresh new look. But when faced with the prospect of lifting heavy cabinets and ripping up old flooring, the whole project seems daunting. Then you remember the allure of floating floors—quick, easy, and seemingly perfect for DIY installation. But a question arises: can you install a floating floor under kitchen cabinets?
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The answer, my friends, is not as simple as a yes or no. It depends! This article will delve into the complexities of this topic, exploring the pros and cons, the installation process, and ultimately, whether floating floors under kitchen cabinets are a good fit for your dream kitchen remodel.
Understanding Floating Floors and Kitchen Cabinets
Floating floors are a popular flooring choice for their ease of installation. Unlike traditional glued-down flooring, floating floors are held together by a tongue and groove system and are not directly attached to the subfloor. This installation method allows for some movement, making them ideal for uneven subfloors.
Kitchen cabinets, on the other hand, are typically heavy and need a solid, stable base. They are usually secured to the walls and the subfloor, creating a rigid and permanent structure. The interplay between these two elements is where the dilemma lies.
Floating Floors Under Cabinets: The Challenges
The potential problems arise from the fact that floating floors require a gap around the perimeter of the room for expansion and contraction due to temperature and humidity changes. This expansion and contraction can cause issues when you have cabinets in the way.
Here’s a breakdown of the challenges:
- Expansion Gaps: The required expansion gap between the floating floor and the wall could be obstructed by the cabinets. This can cause the flooring to buckle or warp.
- Uneven Subfloors: This can create unevenness under the cabinets, leading to misalignment and a less-than-ideal finish.
Should You Install Floating Floors Under Kitchen Cabinets?
The answer hinges on several factors:
- Cabinet Type: If your cabinets are freestanding or have a significant gap between the bottom of the cabinets and the floor, installing a floating floor may be feasible. However, if the cabinets are directly mounted on the subfloor with no gap, floating floors could cause complications.
- Floor Type: Consider the specific type of floating floor you’re choosing. Engineered hardwood, laminate, and luxury vinyl plank can be installed under cabinets with careful planning. However, some options, like cork, might not be the best fit.
- Installation Process: If you plan on DIYing, it’s crucial to consult a professional or reference detailed instructions to ensure proper installation under cabinets.
Image: coretecfloors.art
Tips for a Successful Installation
If you’re determined to use floating floors under your kitchen cabinets, here are some tips:
- Consult a professional: Seek advice from a flooring specialist or contractor about the feasibility of the project. They can provide insights into the best installation techniques and potential challenges.
- Ensure a level subfloor: Before installing the floating floor, ensure the subfloor is level. This will minimize unevenness and potential problems under the cabinets.
- Prioritize cabinet installation: If possible, install your cabinets first, leaving enough space for the floating floor. This allows for careful measurement and reduces the risk of interference.
- Use transition pieces: If you have different flooring types, use transition pieces between the floating floor and the existing subfloor under the cabinets to create a seamless transition.
- Leave enough space: Make sure there’s at least a ¼ inch gap between the floating floor and the cabinets. This allows the floor to move without getting caught under the cabinet.
- Skip the baseboards: Consider using quarter-round molding instead of traditional baseboards around the edges of the cabinets to prevent interference with the floating floor.
- Use quality materials: Invest in high-quality flooring, underlayment, and tools for a more durable and long-lasting installation.
Expert Advice for a Smooth Installation
Here’s some expert advice to avoid common pitfalls
FAQs
Can I install floating laminate flooring under kitchen cabinets?
Yes, installing floating laminate flooring under kitchen cabinets is generally possible if you take the necessary precautions. Ensure you leave enough gap for expansion and contraction, and consult with a professional if you have any doubts.
Is it better to install the floating floor before or after the cabinets?
Ideally, it’s best to install the floating floor after the cabinets are already in place. This allows you to accurately measure the space and avoid any issues with the floor being obstructed by the cabinets.
What happens if I install a floating floor under cabinets without a gap?
Installing a floating floor without an expansion gap around the cabinets can lead to buckling, warping, or even damage to the floor and cabinets due to the flooring’s natural movement.
Is it possible to use cork flooring under kitchen cabinets?
Cork flooring typically needs a larger expansion gap than some other types of floating floors. This could make installing it under cabinets more challenging, so it’s a good idea to consult a flooring specialist.
Can You Install A Floating Floor Under Kitchen Cabinets
Conclusion
The question of whether you can install a floating floor under kitchen cabinets ultimately comes down to careful planning and consideration. While it’s possible, it requires more meticulousness than a standard installation. Remember to consult with a professional flooring specialist, prioritize cabinet installation, and leave enough space for expansion. With careful execution, you can create a beautiful and functional kitchen space with a seamless, floating floor design.
Are you considering installing a floating floor in your kitchen? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!
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