Kitchen cabinets are a big part of any kitchen design – they provide storage and style to the room. But one question that often comes up is should kitchen cabinets be flush with walls. On the one hand, having your kitchen cabinets flush with the wall can give the room a more finished look. On the contrary, there may be some practical considerations that may make this approach less than ideal.
In this article, we will explore both sides of the issue so you can decide for yourself if your kitchen cabinets should be flush with the wall or not.
Should Kitchen Cabinets Be Flush with Walls?
There are two schools of thought when it comes to kitchen cabinets and whether or not they should be flush with the wall. Some people believe that having the cabinets flush with the wall creates a cleaner, more streamlined look.
Others believe that having the cabinets protrude from the wall creates a cozier feel in the kitchen and is more functional, as it provides easier access to items stored in the cabinets.
So, which is the right choice for you? Consider the following pros and cons of each option before making your decision.
Pros Of Flush Cabinets
- Cleaner look: Flush cabinets create a sleek, modern look in the kitchen. Flush cabinets are definitely the way to go if you’re going for a minimalist aesthetic.
- More space: Since flush cabinets don’t protrude from the wall, they free up more space in the kitchen. This can be especially helpful in small kitchens where every square inch counts.
- Easier to clean: Dust and dirt can collect on cabinet doors that protrude from the wall. Flush cabinets have no nooks and crannies for the dust to hide in, so they’re much easier to keep clean.
Cons Of Flush Cabinets
- More difficult to access: When cabinet doors are flush with the wall, it can be more difficult to reach items stored inside them. This isn’t a huge issue if you have tall ceilings (in which case you can install a step stool), but if you don’t, it could be a nuisance.
- Not as cozy: While this is purely subjective, some people find that flush cabinets lack the warmth and coziness of traditional cabinets that protrude from the wall.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to have flush kitchen cabinets is up to you.
Installing Cabinets on Uneven Walls
If your kitchen cabinets are not flush with the wall, you can do a few things to make them look better. First, you can try shimming the cabinets. This process involves adding thin strips of wood between the cabinet and the wall to level it out. You can also add trim around the edges of the cabinets to cover up any gaps. Finally, you can paint or stain the cabinets to match the rest of the kitchen.
Uneven Gap Between Cabinet and Wall
If your kitchen cabinets are not flush with the wall, there are both pros and cons to consider. On the plus side, an uneven gap can provide extra storage space for small items like spices or cooking utensils. It can also give your kitchen a more rustic look.
However, an uneven gap can also make cleaning difficult, as dirt and grime can collect in the nooks and crannies. If you’re considering installing kitchen cabinets that are not flush with the wall, carefully weigh the pros and cons before deciding.
How Much Space Is Between Cabinet and Side Wall?
When it comes to kitchen cabinets, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how much space should be left between the cabinet and the side wall. The amount of space that is ideal for your kitchen will depend on several factors, including the size and layout of your kitchen, the type of cabinets you have, and your personal preferences.
Some people prefer to flush their cabinets with the side walls in their kitchen, while others like to leave a small gap between them. There are pros and cons to both options that you will need to consider before making a decision.
If you choose to have your cabinets flush with the side walls, one of the main benefits is that it will give your kitchen a cleaner and more streamlined look. This can be especially beneficial in smaller kitchens where every inch counts. Flush cabinets can also make it easier to keep your kitchen clean since there won’t be any nooks and crannies for dirt and dust to collect in.
Another option is to leave a small gap between your cabinets and the side walls. This gives you a little bit more flexibility when it comes to storage since you’ll be able to slide items in and out of the gap. However, this can also make your kitchen look cluttered since the space will create additional lines and visual elements.
Ultimately, the decision of how much space to leave between your cabinets and side walls is up to you. Consider all the factors mentioned above before making a final choice that is best for your kitchen.
Benefits of Flush Kitchen Cabinets
There are many benefits to having flush kitchen cabinets. One of the main benefits is that they provide a clean and sleek look to your kitchen. They also help to create the illusion of more space in your kitchen as they are less bulky than traditional kitchen cabinets.
Another benefit of flush kitchen cabinets is that they are easier to keep clean. There are no nooks and crannies for collecting dirt and dust, so you can easily wipe them down with a damp cloth. This also means that they are less likely to harbor unwanted bacteria and germs.
Drawbacks of having Flush Kitchen Cabinets
One of the chief drawbacks to having flush kitchen cabinets is that they can be difficult to keep clean. Because the cabinets are flush with the wall, there is no space for a finger to fit between the cabinet and the wall, making it difficult to dust or wipe down. This can lead to a build-up of dirt and grime on the cabinets over time.
Another downside to flush kitchen cabinets is that they can make a small kitchen feel even smaller. Because there is no visual break between the wall and the cabinets, the kitchen can appear to be one large, uninterrupted space. This can be particularly problematic in small kitchens where every square inch counts.
Finally, flush kitchen cabinets can be more expensive than traditional cabinetry. Because they require special construction and often need to be custom-made, they can add high costs to a kitchen remodel.
Tips for Installing Kitchen Cabinets Flush with the Wall
If you’re considering installing kitchen cabinets flush with the wall, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll need to make sure the wall is perfectly level. Any unevenness will be magnified when the cabinets are installed, so getting this step right is important.
Next, you’ll need to measure the space carefully and order the cabinets accordingly. It’s important to leave enough room for trim, molding, and other finishing touches, so don’t underestimate the size of the project.
Finally, when it comes time to install the cabinets, be sure to use shims under each cabinet to ensure a perfect fit. This extra step will pay off in the long run, as your cabinets will look neat and professional.
Installation Cost and Considerations
Many homeowners want to install kitchen cabinets flush against the wall to maximize the available counter space. However, flush kitchen cabinets become more expensive as you need to construct them specially, and they’re often custom-made.
The cost of installing kitchen cabinets flush against a wall can vary depending on the cabinet style and brand, but a typical project could cost around $200-$600 per linear foot. This price range includes custom and pre-made cabinets, so it is important to consult with a professional if you have specific specifications.
Another factor to consider when calculating the installation cost is whether or not you want to use plywood for the back wall. This installation typically costs around $50 more than traditional drywall, but it offers more stability and durability.
Alternatives to Flush Cabinets
There are a few alternatives to flush cabinets if you’re not set on having them in your kitchen. One option is to have cabinets that sit on the countertop. This can give your kitchen a more rustic look and provide extra storage space.
Another option is to flush upper cabinets with the ceiling, leaving lower cabinets sticking out. This can give your kitchen a taller and more spacious feel. Finally, you could mix and match different cabinet styles to create a unique look for your kitchen.
How to Choose Between Flush and Overlay Cabinets?
Regarding kitchen cabinets, there are two main types of designs – flush and overlay. Both have their own set of pros and cons that need to be considered before making a decision.
Flush cabinets are designed to sit flush with the wall, giving the kitchen a clean and streamlined look. The main advantage of flush cabinets is that they’re very easy to keep clean since there’s no gap between the cabinet and the wall. However, the downside is that they can be quite difficult to install, especially if the wall isn’t perfectly level.
Overlay cabinets, on the other hand, are designed to sit on top of the countertop and extend past it slightly. This creates a small gap between the cabinet and the wall, which can be both an advantage and a disadvantage. The main advantage is that it’s much easier to install overlay cabinets than it is to install flush cabinets. However, the downside is that dirt and dust can accumulate in the gap between the cabinet and the wall, which can be difficult to clean.
Conclusion
Kitchen cabinets that are flush with the wall have their pros and cons. While they do look sleek and modern, they may not be suitable for large kitchens or those with high traffic due to their lack of storage space. On the other hand, installing kitchen cabinets that jut out from the wall provides more storage but requires careful consideration when it comes to aesthetics. Ultimately, choosing between these two options is a matter of personal preference and budgeting constraints.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How much space should be between the cabinet and the wall?
Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer as it will vary depending on the size and layout of your kitchen and personal preference. However, a good rule of thumb is to leave around 3-5 inches of space between the cabinet and the wall. This will give you enough room to open and close the doors without damaging the walls and will also help to prevent your kitchen from looking too cluttered.
Should there be drywall behind kitchen cabinets?
There are a few things to keep in mind if you’re considering whether or not to have drywall behind your kitchen cabinets. First, it’s important to make sure that the cabinets are securely fastened to the wall. Otherwise, they could become loose over time, creating gaps between the cabinet and the wall. Second, drywall can provide additional support for heavier cabinets. And third, it can help prevent water damage if there is a leak behind the cabinets. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to have drywall behind your kitchen cabinets is a personal one. Consider your needs and preferences before making a decision.
How do you fill the gap between cabinets and uneven walls?
If your kitchen cabinets are not flush with the wall, you can do a few things to fill the gap. One option is to use trim molding. This can be attached to the cabinet and then painted or stained to match the rest of the kitchen. Another option is to use caulk. This can be applied to the gap between the cabinet and the wall and then painted over. Whichever option you choose, make sure to properly prep the surface before applying any material.
What is it called when cabinets are flush?
When it comes to kitchen cabinets, there are two main types: those that are flush with the wall and those that are not. Flush-mounted cabinets are attached directly to the wall, while non-flush cabinets protrude from it. The flush kitchen cabinets are also called inset cabinets, whereas the non-flush cabinets are called overlay cabinets.