How to Cover the Underside of Cabinets?

Covering the underside of cabinets can significantly enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your kitchen or workspace. Whether you're aiming to hide wires, protect the cabinet's underside, or simply achieve a cleaner look, there are several effective methods to consider. This article explores various ways to cover the underside of cabinets, backed by research and expert recommendations.

Why Cover the Underside of Cabinets?

Before diving into the methods, it's important to understand the benefits of covering the underside of cabinets:

• Improved Aesthetics: A clean and finished look adds to the overall appeal of your kitchen or workspace.
• Protection: Covering the underside can protect against dust, grease, and other contaminants.
• Concealment: It helps hide wiring and other components, creating a more organized appearance.

Methods to Cover the Underside of Cabinets

1. Under Cabinet Lighting Panels:

• Functionality and Style: Installing under cabinet lighting panels not only covers the underside but also adds functional lighting. According to the Lighting Research Center, LED panels are energy-efficient and provide uniform illumination.
• Example: A homeowner installed LED light panels with a sleek aluminum frame, which covered the cabinet’s underside while providing task lighting. This setup enhanced both the functionality and appearance of the kitchen.

2. Decorative Panels and Veneers:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Decorative panels or veneers can be custom cut to fit the underside of your cabinets, offering a seamless and stylish look. Materials such as wood, laminate, or metal are commonly used.
• Professional Insight: The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) recommends using materials that match or complement your existing cabinetry for a cohesive design.
• Example: In a modern kitchen remodel, the homeowner used matching wood veneer panels to cover the underside of their cabinets, creating a continuous, polished look.

3. PVC or Acrylic Sheets:

• Durability and Maintenance: PVC or acrylic sheets are easy to clean and resistant to moisture, making them ideal for kitchen environments. These materials can be cut to size and adhered to the underside of cabinets.
• Expert Opinion: According to the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), PVC and acrylic are practical choices for high-traffic areas due to their durability and low maintenance.
• Example: A professional chef opted for white acrylic sheets to cover the undersides of their cabinets, providing a clean and reflective surface that brightened up the kitchen.

4. Wire Management Covers:

• Organization and Safety: Wire management covers help to conceal and protect electrical wiring under cabinets. This method is especially useful for those with under cabinet lighting or other electronic devices.
• Research Data: The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) emphasizes the importance of proper wire management to prevent electrical hazards and maintain a tidy appearance.
• Example: A tech-savvy homeowner installed wire management tracks to hide the cables for their under cabinet LED lights and sound system, ensuring a neat and safe setup.

Personal Experiences and Tips

Case Study: Kitchen Renovation with Hidden Lighting and Panels

During a recent kitchen renovation, a homeowner faced the challenge of hiding the undersides of their upper cabinets, which housed multiple electrical components. They opted for a combination of LED lighting panels and custom-cut wood veneer. The result was a visually appealing, functional space that seamlessly integrated lighting and cabinetry. This approach not only improved the kitchen’s appearance but also enhanced its practicality.

Conclusion

Covering the underside of cabinets is a practical and aesthetic upgrade that can significantly enhance your kitchen or workspace. Whether through lighting panels, decorative veneers, PVC sheets, or wire management covers, each method offers unique benefits tailored to different needs and preferences. For best results, consider consulting with a professional to ensure the chosen method aligns with your overall design and functional requirements.

Explore our range of motion sensor under cabinet lighting solutions at Lumaz to find the perfect fit for your kitchen.

For More Information

1.  Under Cabinet Lighting Buying Guide

2.  How to Choose the Best Under Cabinet Lighting for Your Kitchen

3.  How To Install Under Cabinet Lighting - Step-by-Step Guides