How To Lay Laminate Flooring Around Kitchen Cabinets

Laying Laminate Flooring Around Kitchen Cabinets: A Step-by-Step Guide

Installing laminate flooring in the kitchen can enhance its aesthetic appeal and functionality. However, navigating around kitchen cabinets requires meticulous planning and preparation. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you achieve a flawless installation:

1. Preparation:

Underlayment Installation: Lay an underlayment over the subfloor to provide cushioning, sound insulation, and moisture resistance. Trim Cabinet Kick Plates: Remove any kick plates or toe kicks that may obstruct the flooring. Assess Clearance: Ensure there is sufficient clearance between the cabinets and the flooring. If necessary, adjust the cabinets or the flooring.

2. Planning the Layout:

Determine Starting Point: Choose a starting point that aligns the flooring with the kitchen layout. Plan Around Cabinets: Measure the distance between cabinets and mark the flooring accordingly. Cut Planks: Cut laminate planks to fit around cabinets, leaving a small expansion gap.

3. Installation:

Install First Row: Begin laying the flooring from the starting point, ensuring the first row is straight and parallel to the walls. Lay Around Cabinets: Use spacers to maintain a uniform gap between the flooring and cabinets. Trim Planks: Trim planks to fit snugly around cabinets using a laminate cutter or jigsaw.

4. Cutting Notches:

Measure for Notches: Measure the distance between the cabinet base and the flooring. Cut Notches: Using a jigsaw or laminate cutter, create notches in the flooring that fit around the cabinet base.

5. Installing Base Moldings:

Trim Base Moldings: Measure and cut base moldings to fit around cabinets. Attach Base Moldings: Secure the base moldings to the flooring and cabinets using nails or adhesive.

6. Finishing Touches:

Install Transition Strips: Use transition strips to cover any seams or gaps between the laminate flooring and other flooring surfaces. Expansion Gaps: Maintain expansion gaps around the perimeter of the flooring to allow for movement due to temperature and humidity changes.

Tips for Success:

Use a chalk line to ensure straight rows.
Allow the flooring to acclimate to the room temperature before installation.
Wear safety gear, including gloves and eye protection.
Seal the flooring joints with a laminate flooring sealant to prevent moisture penetration.
Clean the flooring regularly with a laminate flooring cleaner and mop.

By following these steps meticulously, you can achieve a professional-looking laminate flooring installation around kitchen cabinets, enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of your kitchen space.