How to Replace Laminate Flooring Under Cabinets: Step-by-Step Guide

Removing old laminate flooring that sits beneath cabinetry requires patience and a systematic approach. The primary challenge is accessing the flooring without damaging the cabinets, which often involves either removing the units or working through small entry points. Success hinges on preparation, the right tools, and careful measurement to ensure the new floor aligns perfectly with the remaining surfaces.

Assessing the Project Scope

Before touching a pry bar, you must evaluate the current state of the laminate and the cabinetry. Determine if the cabinets will remain in place or if you need to disassemble them partially. If the laminate is only damaged in a few spots directly under the cabinets, you might opt for a localized patch rather than a full replacement. However, if the floor is generally worn or you desire a new look, a full replacement under the cabinets is often the most efficient solution.

Tools and Materials Required

Gathering the correct equipment streamlines the process significantly. You will need basic demolition tools like a hammer and pry bar, alongside cutting instruments such as a jigsaw or oscillating tool for tight spots. For installation, a rubber mallet, pull bar, and spacers are essential. Do not forget safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, and have your replacement planks, transition pieces, and matching underlayment ready before starting.

Preparing the Workspace

Preparation is the cornerstone of a professional finish. Clear the room of furniture and remove any small obstacles to create a safe working environment. If the cabinets are fixed and cannot be moved, you must create a "working tunnel" by removing the toe kick or cutting a temporary access panel in the cabinet base. Protect the islands and remaining laminate with heavy-duty cardboard to prevent scratches during the demolition phase.

Step-by-Step Removal Process

The removal phase demands a delicate touch to avoid gouging the subfloor. Start by taking off the cabinet doors and drawers to lighten the load and prevent damage. If the cabinets stay in place, use the oscillating tool to cut the laminate planks right at the cabinet edges. For full removal, insert a wide pry bar between the planks and the cabinet base, gently lifting the old material while supporting the edges to prevent cracking.

Addressing the Subfloor

Once the old laminate is gone, inspect the subfloor for any damage or moisture issues. Laminate failure often indicates an underlying problem, so ensure the surface is structurally sound, dry, and level. Use a straightedge to check for significant dips or rises; these must be corrected with self-leveling compound or shims before the new flooring is laid. A smooth, flat base is non-negotiable for a flawless finish.

Laying the New Flooring

Begin the installation by rolling out the underlayment and trimming it to fit around the cabinet bases. Start laying the new laminate planks in the corner farthest from the cabinets, working your way backward toward the furniture. Use the pull bar and block to lock the planks tightly together, maintaining the manufacturer's expansion gap. When you reach the final row against the cabinet, verify the width before cutting to ensure a snug fit without forcing the pieces.

Final Reassembly and Transition

With the flooring secured, carefully reinstall the cabinets if they were removed. If they stayed, adjust them slightly to cover the expansion gap along the walls. Cut and position transition strips where the new laminate meets other floor types or door thresholds. Finally, reinstall the cabinet doors and drawers, ensuring they sit evenly over the new floor. This final step ensures the room looks seamless and the replacement is visually complete.