Installing kitchen plinths / kickboards involves measuring and cutting the panels to size, attaching the clips to the back an pushing them onto the cabinet legs to conceal the gap between the base units and the floor. This also gives a nice fully fitted look to the kitchen and prevents debris gathering under the units.
Tools and Materials :
- Plinth panels
- Plinth clips
- Tape measure and pencil
- Try square or roofers square
- Saw
- Drill and screws
- Spirit level
- Sealant if any cut edges prevents moisture damage
- OPTIONAL Plinth sealer strip for the bottom edge that meets the floor
Step By Step Fitting Instructions :
- Measure and Cut; Measure the length of the run of cabinets that you have where the plinths are needed and cut the panels to length using your saw. For an L shape installation you would need a mitre saw to cut the 45 degree angle giving the corner a neat join.
- Cut Height If needed. Is the gap between the cabinet and the floor the same as the panel height if not we can cut to size on ordering or in the after effect you would need a jigsaw to cut your panels to size. Allow a 2-3mm tolerance for easier fitting this would not be visible at the top of the plinths once fitted.
- Seal Edges. To prevent moisture damage in your busy working kitchen any cut edges would be better sealed. If used as we provided them the 2 long edges are edged but once cut this exposes the raw core and so its advisable to run some sealant along it or apply some edging with a warm iron.
- Mark the Clip Positions. Lay the plinth panel face down on the floor in front of where you are installing it and using your pencil and square mark the centre position of each cabinet leg onto the back of the plinths.
- Attach the Plinth Clip. Screw the plinth clip mounting plate onto your plinth back using your pencil marks as a guide. Slide this round / horse shoe shaped clip piece onto your mounting plate. The fact this slides on also allows a couple of mm adjustment if needed.
- Install the Plinths. Lift the panel into position lining the clips in place with the legs and push firmly so the clips grip the leg and are held firmly in position. This is it your plinth is secure.
Finishing Touches :
If using a plinth sealer strip you cup this onto your plinth panel bottom edge before installing this creates a tight seal with the floor looking neat and preventing water damage.
For areas with integrated appliances you may need to cut a section out of the plinth panel to allow the door to open properly.
If a cabinet requires ventilation you will need to cut the plinth and install a plinth vent.
Finally you can also run lights along the underside of the cabinet giving a soft and simple light effect which personally i also think looks a bit high end given how easy and cost effective it is to do.