Install Laminate Flooring Under Kitchen Cabinets

Installing Laminate Flooring Under Kitchen Cabinets: A Comprehensive Guide

Installing laminate flooring under kitchen cabinets requires meticulous planning and precision. This guide will delve into the essential aspects to ensure a seamless and professional-looking finish.

1. Preparation:

Before beginning installation, thoroughly clean the subfloor and remove any debris, dirt, or obstructions. Ensure a level and moisture-free surface to prevent future buckling or warping of the laminate flooring.

2. Cutting Planks:

Measure the area to be covered and determine the number of planks required. Use a power saw or miter saw to cut the laminates to the desired length, ensuring clean and accurate cuts that align seamlessly.

3. Determine Starting Point:

Identify the center of the room and lay the first plank perpendicular to the longest wall. This will provide a central starting point and ensure an even distribution of planks throughout the space.

4. Installing the First Row:

Slide the first plank into the allotted space under the cabinets. Interlock the planks securely and tap them together using a rubber mallet. Ensure the planks are flat and flush with each other.

5. Using Expansion Gaps:

Leave a small gap between the laminate flooring and the cabinets, walls, and other obstacles to allow for expansion and contraction. Use spacers to maintain a consistent gap of approximately 1/4 inch.

6. Intermediate Rows:

Continue installing the intermediate rows by interlocking the planks and tapping them together. Stagger the joints between the rows to enhance structural stability and minimize the appearance of seams.

7. Corner Joints:

To navigate corners, cut the planks to fit snugly against the adjacent wall and cabinet. Ensure precise miter cuts for a clean and professional finish.

8. Finishing Touches:

Once all the planks are installed, remove the spacers and install molding around the perimeter of the flooring. This will conceal any exposed edges and provide a polished look.

Tips for Success:

* Use a moisture barrier underneath the laminate flooring to prevent moisture penetration * Allow the laminate flooring to acclimate to the room temperature before installation * Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself during installation * If a seam becomes visible, gently lift the planks and reposition them, tapping them together until the seam disappears