When it comes to kitchen remodelling, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is about the flooring. The flooring sets the foundation for your entire kitchen design, and it’s crucial to choose the right material and installation method. However, one question often leaves homeowners and contractors scratching their heads: Do you put tile flooring under kitchen cabinets?
Understanding Kitchen Flooring Basics
Before we tackle the main question, let’s take a moment to understand the importance of choosing the right flooring material for your kitchen. The kitchen is one of the most used rooms in your home, and it’s subjected to constant foot traffic, spills, and moisture. That’s why durability, maintenance, and water resistance are key factors to consider when selecting a flooring option.
Tile flooring is a popular choice for kitchens due to its durability and water-resistant properties. It comes in a wide variety of colours, patterns, and sizes, allowing you to create a customised look that complements your kitchen design. But when it comes to installing tile flooring, the placement is just as important as the material itself.
Do You Put Tile Flooring Under Kitchen Cabinets?
Now, let’s address the main question head-on: Do you put tile flooring under kitchen cabinets? The answer is not a simple yes or no. It depends on various factors, such as the scope of your project and your budget.
Situations Where Tile Flooring is Installed Under Kitchen Cabinets
In specific scenarios, installing tile flooring under kitchen cabinets is the preferred choice:
New Construction Scenarios
If you’re building a new home from scratch, it’s common to install tile flooring under the kitchen cabinets. This approach enables a seamless appearance and provides a solid foundation for your cabinets.
Full Kitchen Remodels
When undertaking a complete kitchen remodel, tiling under the cabinets can be a wise investment. It ensures that your flooring and cabinets work together harmoniously, making future cabinet changes easier.
Situations Where Tile is NOT Installed Under Cabinets
However, there are situations where tiling under kitchen cabinets may not be necessary or cost-effective:
Cabinet Replacement Only
If you’re only replacing your kitchen cabinets and the existing modern flooring is in good condition, there’s no need to install new tile under the cabinets. This can save you time and money on your project.
Cost-Saving Projects
If you’re working with a tight budget, skipping the tile under the cabinets can help you allocate your funds to other aspects of your kitchen remodel.
Pros and Cons of Tiling Under Cabinets
Let’s weigh the advantages and disadvantages of tiling under kitchen cabinets:
Pros
- Seamless Look: Tiling under the cabinets creates a cohesive, polished appearance in your kitchen.
- Potential for Future Cabinet Changes: If you decide to change your cabinets in the future, having tile underneath can make the process easier.
- Moisture Protection: Tile flooring is water-resistant, which can help protect your cabinets from moisture damage.
Cons
- Higher Material and Labour Costs: Installing tile under the cabinets requires more materials and labour, which can increase your overall project cost.
Factors Influencing Flooring Installation Decisions
When deciding whether to tile under your kitchen cabinets, consider these key factors:
- Budget: Your budget will play a significant role in determining whether you can afford to tile under the cabinets.
- Type of Cabinets: The type of cabinets you choose (custom, stock, or semi-custom) can influence the tile placement.
- Flooring Height and Cabinet Alignment: The height of your flooring and the alignment of your cabinets are crucial considerations to ensure a proper fit.
- Resale Value and Future-Proofing: If you plan to sell your home in the future, tiling under the cabinets can add value and make your kitchen more appealing to potential buyers.
- Contractor and Builder Recommendations: Consult with professionals to gain their insights and tailored recommendations for your specific project.
How to Tile Under Kitchen Cabinets: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve decided to go ahead with tiling under your kitchen cabinets, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Prepare the Subfloor and Kitchen Space: Ensure that your subfloor is clean house, level, and ready for tile installation. Clear out the kitchen and protect any remaining surfaces.
- Measure and Plan for Tile Layout Under Cabinets: Carefully measure the area under the cabinets and plan your tile layout to minimise cuts and ensure a professional-looking finish.
- Select a Suitable Tile for under-cabinet installation: Choose a tile that is durable, water-resistant, and suitable for the conditions under your cabinets. Consider factors such as size, colour, and texture.
- Follow the Installation Process: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing the tile, using the appropriate adhesives and grout. Take your time and work carefully to ensure a high-quality result.
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Be aware of common mistakes, such as not allowing enough space for expansion, using the wrong type of adhesive, or rushing the installation process.
Alternatives to Tiling Under Kitchen Cabinets
If tiling under your kitchen cabinets isn’t the right choice for your project, consider these alternatives:
- Partial Tiling: Tile only the open areas of your kitchen floor, leaving the space under the cabinets untiled.
- Different Materials Under Cabinets: Use alternative materials, such as plywood or concrete backer board, under the cabinets to provide a stable base.
- Floating Floors: Consider installing a floating floor, which can be laid over the existing subfloor without the need for adhesives or grout.
- Skipping Tiling Under Cabinets: In some cases, it may be acceptable to skip tiling under the cabinets altogether, especially if you’re working with a limited budget or time constraints.
Maintenance and Longevity of Tile Under Cabinets
Tiling under your kitchen cabinets can contribute to the durability and ease of cleaning in your kitchen. Here’s what you need to know about maintenance and longevity:
- Durability and Ease of Cleaning: Tile flooring is known for its durability and resistance to stains and spills. With proper maintenance, it can last for many years, even when stored under cabinets.
- Managing Moisture and Spills: Be vigilant about managing moisture and spills in your kitchen, as excess water can seep under the cabinets and cause damage to the tile or the subfloor.
- Repairing and Replacing Tiles Under Cabinets: If a tile under your cabinets becomes damaged, it may be more challenging to repair or replace than a tile in an open area. However, with the right tools and techniques, it’s still possible to address these issues.
Cost Analysis: Tiling Under Cabinets vs. Not
When it comes to the cost of tiling under your kitchen cabinets, there are several factors to consider:
- Material and Labour Costs: Installing tile under the cabinets requires more materials and labour, which can increase your overall project cost. However, the exact cost will depend on the size of your kitchen, the type of tile you choose, and the rates of your contractors.
- Long-Term Financial Benefits and Drawbacks: While tiling under the cabinets may be more expensive upfront, it can provide long-term benefits, such as increased durability and the potential for easier future cabinet changes. On the other hand, skipping the tile under the cabinets can save you money in the short term but may lead to additional costs down the line.
- Impact on Kitchen Renovation Budget: Consider how tiling under the cabinets fits into your overall kitchen renovation budget. If it’s a significant portion of your budget, you may need to make adjustments to other aspects of your project.
Here’s a table comparing the estimated costs of tiling under kitchen cabinets vs. not:
Factor Tiling Under Cabinets Not Tiling Under Cabinets
Material Costs Higher Lower
Labour Costs Higher Lower
Long-Term Benefits: Increased durability and easier future cabinet changes. Potential for additional costs down the line.
Impact on Budget: May require adjustments to other aspects of the project. More flexibility in allocating funds.
Expert Opinions and Industry Standards
To gain a better understanding of the best practices for tiling under kitchen cabinets, let’s hear from the experts:
- Flooring Professionals: Many flooring professionals recommend tiling under kitchen cabinets for new construction and complete remodels, as it provides a seamless look and added durability.
- Building Codes and Industry Recommendations: Although there are no specific building codes related to tiling under kitchen cabinets, industry recommendations often suggest following the manufacturer’s guidelines for the particular tile and adhesive being used.
- Real-World Insights from Kitchen Remodelers: Kitchen remodelers often share their experiences and insights on tiling under cabinets, highlighting the benefits and challenges they’ve encountered in their projects.
