When it comes to kitchen renovations, it’s easy to focus on the big details like cabinetry, appliances, or splashbacks — but the kickboards (also known as plinths or toe kicks) play a huge role in giving your kitchen a clean, polished finish.
These panels sit between your cabinets and the floor, hiding the cabinet bases and creating a seamless, built-in look. Over time, kickboards can get scratched, dented, or damaged from everyday wear — making them one of the easiest ways to refresh your kitchen without a full remodel.
If you’re thinking about tackling this project yourself, here’s what to consider before going full DIY.
They serve two purposes:
- Practicality: They prevent dirt and moisture from getting underneath your cabinets.
- Aesthetics: They give your cabinetry a smooth, continuous look and visually anchor your kitchen to the floor.
Most kickboards are made from laminate, vinyl, or stainless steel, designed to match or contrast your cabinet finish.
DIY Kickboard Installation: What It Takes
If you love a hands-on project, it’s possible to make and install your own kickboards using laminate panels and basic tools. Here’s a simplified version of what the process involves:
- Measure carefully – Measure from the floor to the bottom of your cabinets and along the full length of the base.
- Mark and cut – Transfer your measurements to the laminate sheet. Use a circular saw for clean edges and place cardboard underneath to protect the surface.
- Test fit – Slide the cut piece under your cabinet to check for fit and alignment.
- Drill pilot holes – Mark where you’ll secure the kickboard, then drill small pilot holes for screws.
- Attach – Screw the kickboard just below the cabinet base, keeping it level and flush with the floor.
Tip: Always wear safety gear and have someone hold the laminate steady while cutting — it helps prevent uneven cuts or cracked panels.
Common DIY Mistakes to Avoid
While DIY can be rewarding, installing kickboards requires precision. Some common mistakes include:
- Uneven cuts or crooked edges that make the panels look misaligned.
- Incorrect measurements, leading to gaps or pieces that don’t fit.
- Over-drilling or cracked laminate from too much pressure.
- Uneven drilling, leaving visible screw holes or loose panels.
Even small errors can waste materials and time — and fixing them often ends up costing more than professional or pre-cut options.
They’re designed for quick installation, saving you from all the cutting, measuring, and potential mistakes.
Benefits of pre-cut kickboards:
- Perfectly cut to fit your cabinetry
- Uniform edges for a professional finish
- Fast, tool-free installation
- Available in a range of materials and colours to match your kitchen design
At eKitchens, our kickboards are made from 16mm High Moisture Resistant Particleboard — the same high-quality material as our cabinetry — and available in over 200 colour and finish options from leading Australian brands.
You can order them flat packed or pre-assembled, depending on your renovation needs.
Simplify Your Kitchen Renovation with eKitchens
Whether you’re updating your kickboards, replacing your cabinets, or building a brand-new kitchen, eKitchens makes it easy to achieve a stunning, long-lasting result.
Our custom-made, ready-to-install cabinetry and kickboards are manufactured locally in Western Australia and designed to fit your space perfectly — no guesswork, no wasted time.
📞 Ready to upgrade your kitchen the easy way?
Call (08) 9456 3108 or email sales@ekitchens.com.au
🌐 Explore more at www.ekitchens.com.au
