Level floors are a rare thing… even in new homes. You might not even notice how badly a floor slopes until you start installing base cabinets – and discover that the dishwasher won’t fit under the countertop or that you need a 1″ filler or trim at the end of the cabinet run. Today we’re going to mention a few tips for installing IKEA toe-kicks.
This is how IKEA AKURUM cabinets look before installing a plinth.
IKEA kitchen cabinets don’t come with an integrated toekick or plinth. They use adjustable legs. These are separate legs that attach to the bottom of the cabinets that can be adjusted individually to level the cabinets. The AKURUM toekick or plinth is attached to the legs with clips.
While this makes for a quick and easy installation, the downside is the fact that they can pop off if accidentally banged with a shoe, broom or mop.
IKEA plinth seen from below.
Things to remember:
- Countertop thickness is relevant. 1 1/4″ & 1 1/2″ are most common depending on the material and construction.
- One of the most critical considerations is the dishwasher. Most dishwasher heights can be adjusted down to a minimum of 34″ so you have to be sure the clearance below the countertop is at least that high at the dishwasher opening.
- Another critical point comes into play when you’re installing a slide-in range since these are integrated with the countertop. Read the installation manual to determine the clearances at the countertop before you start installing cabinets.
- A conventional standalone range is less of an issue since it’s independent of the cabinets and countertop.
- The standard countertop height is 36″ above the finish floor (AFF). If the floor is sloped, there will only be one point where the countertop will be exactly 36″ AFF.
- Once the cabinets are installed and the floor is finished, you can add the pre-finished 1/4″ IKEA plinth.
- Measure the kick height at each end of the cabinet run and mark a cutline near the bottom edge.
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