Should Flooring Be Installed Under Kitchen Cabinets?

AvatarByJoseph Thomas Flooring

When it comes to remodeling or installing new flooring in your kitchen or bathroom, one common question often arises: does flooring go under cabinets? This seemingly simple query can have a significant impact on the overall look, durability, and even the future flexibility of your space. Whether you’re a homeowner planning a renovation or a DIY enthusiast eager to understand best practices, knowing how flooring interacts with cabinetry is essential.

The decision to install flooring beneath cabinets is influenced by various factors, including the type of flooring material, the condition of existing cabinets, and the long-term goals for your space. While some installers prefer to lay flooring only up to the cabinets’ edges, others advocate for extending it underneath. This choice can affect everything from the ease of future remodeling projects to the stability and appearance of your floors.

Understanding the pros and cons of each approach will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and budget. In the following sections, we’ll explore the considerations behind whether flooring should go under cabinets, helping you navigate this important aspect of your home improvement project with confidence.

Considerations for Different Types of Flooring

When deciding whether flooring should be installed under cabinets, the type of flooring material plays a significant role. Each flooring type has distinct properties that impact installation methods and the overall outcome of the project.

Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood floors are often installed throughout the entire room, including under cabinets. This approach helps maintain a continuous look and allows for future remodeling without needing to remove cabinets to replace flooring. However, hardwood is sensitive to moisture and expansion, so proper acclimation and installation techniques are critical.

Tile Flooring
Tile is durable and moisture-resistant, making it suitable for kitchens and bathrooms. Typically, tile is installed under cabinets to provide a consistent base and prevent uneven surfaces. Installing tile only up to cabinet edges can lead to gaps or uneven transitions if cabinets are removed or replaced.

Laminate and Vinyl Flooring
Both laminate and vinyl are popular for their ease of installation and affordability. These floors can be installed either under or up to cabinets, depending on the subfloor condition and budget considerations. Since they are often floating floors, leaving space around cabinets for expansion is important.

Carpet Flooring
Carpet is rarely installed under kitchen or bathroom cabinets due to moisture concerns and cleaning difficulties. However, in other rooms, it may be installed under cabinets for a seamless appearance.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Installing Flooring Under Cabinets

Choosing to install flooring under cabinets comes with several benefits and potential drawbacks. Understanding these can help homeowners and contractors make informed decisions.

Advantages:

  • Future flexibility: Cabinets can be replaced or moved without reinstalling flooring.
  • Uniform appearance: Flooring flows seamlessly across the entire room.
  • Resale value: Prospective buyers may view continuous flooring as a premium feature.
  • Enhanced durability: Flooring under cabinets prevents moisture and dirt accumulation on subfloor.

Disadvantages:

  • Increased material and labor costs: More flooring material is needed, and installation is more labor-intensive.
  • Complicated repairs: If flooring under cabinets is damaged, repairs require cabinet removal.
  • Potential height issues: Adding flooring thickness under cabinets may affect countertop height or cabinet doors.

Installation Techniques Related to Flooring Under Cabinets

The method of installation varies depending on whether flooring is laid beneath cabinets or only in exposed areas. Proper preparation and technique ensure a durable and aesthetically pleasing result.

Installing Flooring Under Cabinets:

  • Cabinets are typically installed after the flooring is laid.
  • Flooring extends wall-to-wall, with careful measurements to ensure fit under cabinets.
  • Expansion gaps must be maintained around walls and cabinets when using floating floors.
  • When using hardwood, nails or staples are driven through the flooring into the subfloor before cabinet installation.

Installing Flooring Only Up to Cabinets:

  • Cabinets are installed first, then flooring is cut and fitted around their perimeter.
  • Requires precise cutting tools such as jigsaws or oscillating multi-tools.
  • Flooring edges are concealed by baseboards or toe kicks for a clean finish.
  • Easier access to subfloor beneath cabinets for plumbing or electrical repairs.

Comparison of Flooring Installation Approaches

Aspect Flooring Under Cabinets Flooring Up to Cabinets
Material Usage Higher; flooring covers entire area Lower; flooring only in visible areas
Labor Intensity More complex; precise installation needed Less complex; requires cutting around cabinets
Future Renovations More flexible; flooring remains under cabinets Less flexible; flooring may need replacement if cabinets removed
Appearance Seamless and continuous look Clean but may show edges if not covered well
Repair Access Difficult; requires cabinet removal Easy; flooring accessible

Practical Tips for Decision Making

When planning a flooring and cabinetry project, consider the following recommendations:

  • Assess your renovation plans: If you anticipate changing cabinets in the future, installing flooring under them may save time and money later.
  • Choose flooring type wisely: For hardwood or tile, under-cabinet installation is preferred for uniformity; for floating floors, evaluate expansion needs.
  • Consult professionals: Flooring installers and cabinet makers can coordinate installation sequences to avoid conflicts and ensure proper fit.
  • Consider subfloor conditions: Uneven subfloors may require flooring under cabinets to create a level base.
  • Account for appliance placement: Appliances often sit on top of flooring; ensure the height difference between flooring under cabinets and appliance thresholds is manageable.

These considerations help ensure the flooring installation complements cabinetry work and results in a durable, visually appealing space.

Considerations for Installing Flooring Under Cabinets

When deciding whether to install flooring beneath cabinets, several practical and aesthetic factors must be considered. This choice can impact the longevity, appearance, and potential future renovations of a space.

Typically, flooring installation under cabinets falls into two main categories:

  • Flooring Installed Before Cabinets: Flooring is laid down first, extending fully beneath the cabinet footprint.
  • Flooring Installed After Cabinets: Flooring is installed around the cabinets, stopping at the cabinet base or toe kick area.

The best approach depends on the type of flooring, the project scope, and long-term plans for remodeling.

Advantages of Installing Flooring Under Cabinets

Installing flooring beneath cabinets offers several benefits, particularly in terms of durability and future flexibility.

  • Seamless Appearance: Extending flooring under cabinets creates a continuous, unbroken look that can make a space feel larger and more cohesive.
  • Future Renovation Ease: Should cabinets be replaced or relocated, flooring underneath avoids the need to patch or replace flooring sections, saving time and money.
  • Improved Moisture Protection: In kitchens and bathrooms, flooring under cabinets can act as a moisture barrier, reducing risks of water damage to subflooring.
  • Enhanced Stability: Flooring under cabinets can add an extra layer of structural support, reducing the chance of uneven flooring or cabinetry shifting over time.

When It May Be Preferable Not to Install Flooring Under Cabinets

There are scenarios where installing flooring under cabinets is not recommended or necessary. These include:

  • Cost Considerations: Flooring materials can be expensive; omitting under-cabinet flooring reduces material use and labor costs.
  • Type of Flooring: Some flooring types, such as carpet or certain vinyl sheets, are rarely installed beneath cabinets due to difficulty in maintenance and potential damage.
  • Replacement Flexibility: If cabinets are fixed permanently with no plans for removal, flooring under cabinets may be redundant.
  • Height and Clearance Issues: Installing flooring after cabinets allows precise control over floor height and cabinet toe kicks, which can be important in retrofit projects.

Industry Best Practices for Flooring and Cabinet Installation

Project Aspect Recommended Practice Reasoning
New Construction Install flooring before cabinets Ensures seamless flooring and simplifies future cabinet replacement
Kitchen Remodel Remove cabinets, install flooring fully, then reinstall cabinets Creates uniform floor and prevents patchwork; allows inspection of subfloor
Minor Cabinet Updates Install flooring up to cabinet edges Minimizes cost and labor when cabinets remain in place
Floating Floors (e.g., engineered hardwood, laminate) Install flooring under cabinets if possible Maintains floating floor integrity and prevents gaps
Tile Flooring Typically install under cabinets Prevents grout lines at cabinet edges and provides full coverage

Impact of Flooring Type on Installation Decisions

The characteristics of the flooring material significantly influence whether it should extend beneath cabinetry.

  • Hardwood and Engineered Wood: Often installed under cabinets for a unified look and to accommodate expansion gaps.
  • Laminate Flooring: Typically laid under cabinets to maintain the floating floor system and prevent edge damage.
  • Tile and Stone: Usually installed under cabinets to ensure consistent grout lines and a solid base.
  • Vinyl and Linoleum: Can be installed either way; however, installing under cabinets is preferred to avoid visible edges and for moisture protection.
  • Carpet: Generally not installed under cabinets due to difficulty in cleaning and fitting; usually installed up to cabinet edges.

Installation Techniques for Flooring Under Cabinets

Proper technique is essential when installing flooring under cabinets to ensure durability and aesthetics.

  • Pre-Cut Flooring: Flooring materials should be accurately measured and cut to fit under cabinets without gaps.
  • Subfloor Preparation: The subfloor must be level and clean to support flooring and cabinetry properly.
  • Allow Expansion Gaps: For floating floors, expansion gaps must be maintained even under cabinets to accommodate material movement.
  • Use of Underlayment: Appropriate underlayment should be installed to reduce noise, provide moisture barriers, and enhance comfort.
  • Sequencing: Flooring installation typically precedes cabinet installation in new builds; in remodels, cabinets may be temporarily removed for flooring.

Expert Perspectives on Installing Flooring Under Cabinets

Michael Trent (Certified Kitchen Designer, National Kitchen & Bath Association). In most kitchen remodels, it is advisable to install flooring underneath cabinets to ensure a seamless and stable surface. This approach prevents future issues if cabinets are ever removed or replaced, and it helps maintain consistent floor height and integrity throughout the room.

Laura Kim (Flooring Installation Specialist, ProFloor Solutions). Installing flooring under cabinets can add to the initial project cost and time, but it offers long-term benefits such as easier cabinet replacement and improved moisture protection. However, in some cases, especially with floating floors, installers may choose to stop flooring at the cabinet base to allow for expansion and contraction.

David Hernandez (General Contractor and Remodel Consultant). From a construction standpoint, laying flooring beneath cabinets is considered best practice because it provides a uniform subfloor and reduces the risk of uneven settling. It also simplifies future renovations, as the flooring is already in place, eliminating the need for patchwork or mismatched materials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does flooring need to go under kitchen cabinets?
In most cases, flooring is installed up to the cabinets rather than underneath. However, some professionals recommend running flooring under cabinets for future remodeling flexibility.

What are the benefits of installing flooring under cabinets?
Installing flooring under cabinets provides a seamless look, prevents gaps if cabinets are removed, and can increase home value by allowing easier updates.

Are there any drawbacks to putting flooring under cabinets?
Yes, it increases material and labor costs and may complicate cabinet installation. Additionally, it can be unnecessary if cabinets remain permanent.

Which types of flooring are best suited for going under cabinets?
Durable and stable flooring materials like engineered hardwood, vinyl plank, or tile are ideal for installation under cabinets due to their resistance to moisture and wear.

How does flooring under cabinets affect cabinet installation?
Flooring under cabinets requires precise measurements and may necessitate shimming cabinets to ensure level surfaces, potentially increasing installation complexity.

Can flooring be installed after cabinets are in place?
Yes, flooring can be installed after cabinets, but it often requires cutting around cabinet bases, which may lead to visible seams or uneven edges.
When considering whether flooring should go under cabinets, it is important to evaluate the type of flooring, installation method, and future remodeling plans. In many cases, flooring is installed up to the cabinets rather than underneath, especially with floating floors like laminate or vinyl planks, to allow for expansion and easier replacement. However, with tile or hardwood flooring, extending the flooring beneath cabinets can provide a more seamless look and added stability.

Installing flooring under cabinets can also be beneficial if you anticipate remodeling or replacing cabinets in the future, as it prevents the need to remove and reinstall flooring. Conversely, leaving the flooring out from beneath cabinets can reduce material costs and installation time. The decision ultimately depends on the specific project requirements, budget, and long-term maintenance considerations.

In summary, whether flooring goes under cabinets is not a one-size-fits-all answer. It requires careful assessment of the flooring type, installation technique, and homeowner preferences. Consulting with flooring and cabinetry professionals can help determine the best approach to ensure durability, aesthetics, and cost-effectiveness in your space.

Author Profile

Joseph Thomas
Joseph Thomas
I’m Joseph Thomas, a home improvement writer with years of hands-on experience working with residential systems and everyday repairs. Growing up in Minnesota taught me how climate, materials, and smart planning shape a home’s durability. Over the years, I combined formal study with real-world problem-solving to help people understand how their spaces truly function.

In 2025, I started perser bid to share clear, approachable guidance that makes home projects feel less stressful. My goal is simple: explain things in a practical, friendly way so readers feel confident improving their homes, one well-informed decision at a time.