Installing vinyl flooring in a kitchen is an excellent way to add style and durability to the space. But when it comes to kitchen appliances, you may be wondering if you should put vinyl flooring underneath them or not. The answer is that it depends on the type of appliance and the type of vinyl flooring you’re using.
Vinyl Flooring and Kitchen Appliances
When considering whether or not to put vinyl flooring under kitchen appliances, it is important to consider both the weight of the appliance and the type of vinyl flooring being used. If you are using lightweight appliances, such as a small refrigerator or dishwasher, then it is generally safe to install vinyl flooring underneath them. However, heavier items such as ovens and stoves should not be placed directly on top of vinyl flooring.
Types of Vinyl Flooring
The type of vinyl flooring you choose will also have an impact on whether or not you can safely place kitchen appliances on top of it. Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is a popular option for kitchens as it is durable and water-resistant.
However, LVT can be easily damaged by heavy items, so it is best to avoid placing kitchen appliances directly on top of it. Sheet Vinyl is another popular choice for kitchens due to its durability and water-resistance. However, sheet vinyl can also be damaged by heavy items so it’s best to avoid placing ovens or stoves directly on top of sheet vinyl.
Alternative Solutions
If you are looking for an alternative solution for placing heavy appliances in your kitchen, there are some options available. One solution is to use an appliance mat designed specifically for that purpose.
Appliance mats provide a cushion between the appliance and the floor, protecting both from damage caused by vibrations or shifting weight. Another solution is to use an underlayment designed specifically for use with sheet vinyl or LVT floors. Underlayment provides extra cushioning between the appliance and the floor, helping protect both from damage.
Conclusion
Do You Put Vinyl Flooring Under Kitchen Appliances? The answer depends on the type of appliance and type of vinyl flooring being used.
Generally speaking, lightweight appliances are safe to place directly on top of most types of vinyl flooring while heavier items such as ovens should not be placed directly on top of any kind of vinyl flooring. Alternative solutions such as appliance mats or underlayment can be used if needed.