Can I install cabinets over vinyl plank flooring?

rubi67

I have what I think is luxury vinyl plank flooring in a loft, and I'd like to install custom bookshelf on one side, and a series of cabinets on the opposite wall. I'm thinking to use cabinets (with doors), with a custom wooden bench top. It would store things like board games, DVDs, gaming console etc. I've posted a picture of the flooring in case my assumption is wrong. 

These two walls are perpendicular to the sloped ceiling (I've attached a picture of one wall). The high wall is approx 2150mm, sloping down to 1200mm. The width is approximately 1800mm. 

The internet tells me I shouldn't install cabinets over LVP as it needs room to shrink and expand. All the advice seems to relate to kitche cabinets with dishwasher, ovens etc. Does that apply in this case also? And I'm assuming I can't pull away the LVP baseboard either. Welcome advice!

The wall for the bookshelf - cabinets would be opposite

Close-up of the flooring, where it meets wall & stairs

EricL

Hello @rubi67 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about adding a book cabinet in the room.

Yes, you can install a book cabinet over luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring, but there are a few considerations to ensure it’s done properly. LVP is a “floating floor” in most cases, meaning it expands and contracts slightly with temperature and humidity changes. Because of that, heavy fixed cabinetry or built-in furniture can restrict the flooring’s natural movement and cause it to buckle or separate over time.

If the cabinet is a freestanding piece that simply sits on top of the LVP and can be moved, it’s perfectly fine. However, if it will be a built-in or permanently anchored unit, it’s better to install the cabinet first and then lay the LVP around it, leaving the flooring free to float as designed. Alternatively, you can place the cabinet on top if you’re confident it won’t completely pin down a large section of flooring using felt pads or furniture coasters under the base can help distribute weight and reduce stress points.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric