Yes, it is typically necessary to lay flooring under kitchen cabinets. When installing kitchen cabinets, you must establish a level and solid foundation on which they can be securely mounted. Depending on the type of flooring you have chosen, you may need to add flooring under the cabinets.
For instance, it is best practice to use a plywood underlayment if you are laying tile or hardwood flooring, as this strengthens and stabilizes the area. As for laminate and luxury vinyl tile, you may be able to use an adhesive to attach them directly to the floor.
Lastly, if you are installing linoleum or carpet, you will need to lay the flooring first and then install the cabinets on top. It is essential that the flooring is laid properly and securely before you attach the cabinets, and you should always use the proper type of material and hardware for the job.
Do kitchen cabinets sit on subfloor or finished floor?
The short answer is it depends. Kitchen cabinets can sit on both a subfloor and a finished floor, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind.
When cabinets are installed on top of a subfloor, they should be mounted with mounting brackets to ensure they are properly secured. Not all types of cabinets will be designed to be mounted this way, so it’s important to check whether the cabinets you are considering are designed for this purpose.
Also, make sure that the floor is smooth and level for best results.
Cabinets can also be installed directly on top of a finished floor, such as tile, laminate, hardwood, or vinyl plank flooring. It’s important to check the manufacturer’s instructions for the cabinets to ensure that the floor type and installation methods are recommended for your particular product.
Additionally, any trim or molding that is used in conjunction with the installation should also be chosen carefully to ensure that it is rated for floors, not just walls.
Finally, it’s important to carefully measure both the cabinets and the floor before beginning, to ensure that there’s enough room to accommodate the installation. This is especially important when installing on a finished floor, as it’s not as easy to adjust the position of the cabinets afterwards.
Following these tips will help you get the best results when installing kitchen cabinets, regardless of whether you’re working with a subfloor or finished floor.
Do you install cabinets before or after tile flooring?
The best way to install cabinets in a tile flooring is to install the cabinets after the tile has been laid. This ensures that the cabinets are securely mounted and properly leveled. Before installing the cabinets, you should make sure that the tiles around the area are level and all other surface areas have been prepped.
After setting the tile, use a tile saw and wet saw to cut the tiles in the area where the cabinets will be installed to ensure you have a clean, smooth surface. Once the area is ready and the cabinets are in position, use construction adhesive to firmly adhere them to the tile.
Be sure to follow manufacturer instructions and always wear protective gear when working with power tools or adhesives.
Why do people put tile under cabinets?
People put tile under cabinets as a decorative and functional solution. Decoratively, tile can add color, texture, and style to a room, making the kitchen feel updated and modern. Functionally, tile is easy to clean, is durable, and provides a non-slip surface, making it a great choice for under a cabinet.
It provides a protective layer for the cabinets and the underlying surface. In kitchens, tile is a great choice for under cabinets because it is water and stain resistant and can handle spills often associated with cooking.
Furthermore, since tile is easy to clean, it helps keep a kitchen hygienic and free of germs. Finally, tile adds insulation and helps prevent water damage to the cabinets and the underlying surface. All of these qualities make tile an ideal choice for under cabinets.
Do you have to remove cabinets to install laminate flooring?
It depends on the type of flooring installation you are doing and the type of cabinets you have. Generally, you will not have to remove cabinets to install laminate flooring if you are doing a floating floor installation.
In a floating floor installation, laminate planks or tiles are clicked together without being glued or nailed down and then floated above the subfloor on top of an underlayment. This eliminates the need to remove the cabinets since the flooring is not being attached to the subfloor itself.
However, if you are gluing or nailing your laminate flooring down or if you have wall-to-wall cabinetry that needs to be removed in order to properly install the flooring, then you will need to remove the cabinets in order to install the laminate flooring.
Should you remove cabinets before flooring?
When it comes to deciding whether or not you should remove cabinets before installing new flooring, it really depends on the type of flooring being installed. In some cases, it may be best to remove the cabinets and then install the new flooring; in others, it might be more effective to install the flooring first and then reinstall the cabinets.
If you are installing a hardwood floor, it is generally best to remove the cabinets first. If a floor is not properly sealed around the cabinets, moisture can seep underneath the cabinets, leading to warping and discoloration of the hardwood planks.
However, if you are installing a thicker, more forgiving floor like vinyl, it should be fine to install the flooring first before replacing the cabinets as long as you leave an adequate amount of space between the cabinets and the flooring to account for any expansion or contraction due to changes in temperature or humidity.
A qualified flooring expert should be able to provide you with more advice and specific instructions when it comes to your particular flooring installation project.
How do you replace a kitchen floor without removing cabinets?
Replacing a kitchen floor without removing cabinets is possible, it just requires more careful removal and replacement than if the cabinets were removed first.
First, you’ll need to remove the existing flooring in the kitchen. You can use a chisel, crowbar, and hammer to carefully pry up sections of the flooring, taking care not to damage any of the cabinets.
Once it’s all removed, you can begin to install the new flooring.
Next, you’ll need to check for any uneven areas in the subfloor that need to be leveled before installation. If there are any, you can use a self-leveling concrete compound to level the areas. Once the subfloor is level, you’ll need to choose the type of flooring you’ll be using, such as tile, laminate, or vinyl.
If you are using tile, you’ll need to lay down a cement backer board before applying the thinset mortar. This will provide extra stability to the tile and prevent any shifting over time. When laying out the tile, make sure to leave gaps between the tiles to allow for expansion and contraction.
Once the tile or other flooring is in place, you’ll need to apply grout around the tiles and then seal it.
For laminate and vinyl flooring, you should first lay down a layer of underlayment before installation. To install the flooring, you’ll need to cut it to fit around the edges of the cabinets. Any excess should be trimmed with a knife.
The laminate or vinyl should click into place, and you’ll need to use a pull bar and rubber mallet to ensure it is secure.
Finally, you should add a sealant to the flooring to provide extra protection and also to help prevent scratches or water damage.
By carefully following these steps, you can successfullyreplace your kitchen floor without having to remove cabinets. This process can be done in a single day and save a lot of time and money compared to removing and reinstalling cabinets.
What should you not do when installing laminate flooring?
When installing laminate flooring, you should avoid getting it wet, allowing the floor to become damp, heavy traffic or heavy furniture on the floor, and drag or slide furniture across the floor. You should also not install the flooring directly on top of concrete or any subfloor surface which contains moisture or an unleveled surface.
Additionally, you should also avoid leaving any space between the flooring and the wall; as this will cause an uneven finish and/or a poor installation. This is why it is essential to use an appropriate moisture blocking material between the flooring and the wall.
Lastly, you should avoid using any adhesives when installing laminate flooring, and instead opt for an interlocking system instead, so you have a secure, tight and even fit.
Can mold grow under floating floor?
Yes, mold can grow under floating floors. This is because floating floors are not typically removable, so under the floor can be an ideal environment for mold growth. Any moisture that gets trapped beneath the floor, as well as any dust, dirt, and other debris, can provide a source of food for molds to feed upon.
Floating floors often make it difficult to detect water damage and can be the perfect hiding place for mold. Additionally, floating floors make it harder to keep air circulation going, which can worsen the situation and promote the growth of additional mold.
To avoid this, it is important to check any areas that may be prone to moisture regularly, seal off any areas where water may be getting trapped, dry any spills and leaks quickly, and use a dehumidifier to control the humidity level in the room.
What are the disadvantages of a floating floor?
Floating floors have some potential downsides that must be considered before they are installed. First, they can be quite noisy due to the lack of adhesives that are normally used to hold a solid wood floor in place.
As the flooring boards expand and contract with fluctuations in temperature, they can also cause some creaking and/or squeaking. Another downside is the potential for gaps to form between the boards, which can increase the risk of dirt and dust getting beneath them.
Finally, the amount of preparation that is involved in installing a floating floor means that it can be time-consuming and labour intensive. This could lead to higher installation costs.
Where do you start laying laminate flooring in a kitchen?
When laying laminate flooring in a kitchen, it is important to begin from the most visible and accessible corner of the kitchen. Generally, the starting point would be in the corner diagonally across from the door used to enter from the rest of the house.
Before you start laying the laminate flooring, make sure that the sub-floor is level and dry. Start by laying out a row of laminate boards in the corner, keeping the boards perpendicular to the wall.
Once the first row is in place, secure it by tapping the joints together. Make sure to leave a 10mm gap between the laminate boards and any walls or other obstacles. Continue adding in rows one by one, making sure to keep the same 10mm gap.
After all of the planks have been laid, secure them with trim or baseboard to seal the edges and make sure that the boards are properly secured.
What keeps a floating floor in place?
The primary component that keeps a floating floor in place is an interlocking system of tongues and grooves. When the individual pieces of flooring are snapped together, the tongues and grooves create a secure fit that prevents the floor from shifting and moving around.
In addition to interlocking, most floating floors attach to the subfloor beneath them through an adhesive. This adhesive helps create an even stronger bond between the floor and the subfloor so that individual pieces of flooring won’t be able to move and separate from one another.
Finally, floating floors may also be held in place by a baseboard or trim, which serves as an anchor for the entire floor.
Can floating floors be mopped?
Yes, floating floors can be mopped. However, it is important to take some specific precautions when doing so. Any liquid that gets between the seams can cause fibers to swell and the plank to buckle and warp, so it is important to dry mop or use a very damp mop.
Avoid wet mopping or mopping with a lot of liquid. It is also recommended to use a cleaning product specifically made for laminate flooring, as regular cleaners can leave residue that can dull the finish of the floor over time.
If a deeper cleaning is needed, it is recommended to spot clean rather than wet mop the entire floor. For thorough cleaning, use a vacuum or a soft bristle broom to remove dirt and debris, then mop with a damp mop and warm water.
What is the flooring to use in a kitchen?
When it comes to selecting flooring for a kitchen, it is important to consider factors such as comfort, durability, maintenance and appearance. Hardwood is a popular choice for kitchens because it adds warmth and character to the space.
It’s also relatively durable and can be repaired easily if it becomes scratched or damaged. The downside of hardwood flooring is that it can be slippery when wet and isn’t ideal for areas near the sink or dishwasher.
For a more water-resistant floor, ceramic tile is a popular option. Tile comes in a variety of colors, materials and textures and can be a great choice for kitchen floors. It’s easy to clean, doesn’t slip when wet and is less prone to staining than other flooring.
The downside of tile is that it is a more expensive option and can be cold and harsh underfoot.
Vinyl is another good kitchen flooring choice because it is water-resistant and easy to clean. It also comes in a wide variety of styles and colors so you can find something to match your décor. The downside of vinyl is that it can be slippery and prone to denting, so it may not be the best choice if you have children or pets.
Cork is another unique flooring option that adds a warm, inviting touch to any kitchen. The material is comfortable underfoot, warm, naturally water-resistant, and eco-friendly. The downside of cork is that it can be scratched and stained easily so it may require more frequent cleaning.
No matter which flooring you choose for your kitchen, make sure it fits your lifestyle and design tastes. With the right maintenance and care, most flooring options will last for years to come.
Is it better to install flooring before cabinets?
In general, it is better to install flooring before cabinets. Having the flooring in place first ensures that the cabinets and countertops will fit properly to the walls, as the cabinets and countertops will match the flooring’s measurements.
If you install the cabinets first, it can be difficult to match the flooring’s measurements and square the cabinets and countertops with the walls. Additionally, having the flooring in place before the cabinets simplifies the installation process, as it is easier to move the cabinets when the flooring is already down.
Moreover, installing the flooring first can help to protect the cabinets and countertops from water damage. When water seeps in underneath the cabinets, it can cause warping and swelling in the wood, resulting in serious damage.
Having the flooring installed first provides a protective buffer between the cabinets and any water unintentionally entering the kitchen.
Finally, installing the flooring first ensures that the floors and cabinets share the same color palette, helping to create a cohesive and unified look throughout the kitchen. Additionally, the newer flooring can help to give the kitchen a refreshed look, making it appear more modern and updated.
In summary, installing flooring before cabinets is often the best option to ensure a successful kitchen remodel. The flooring allows for better accuracy when it comes to measurements and installation, adds a protective buffer from water damage, and can create a beautiful, unified look throughout the kitchen.