What is a plinth (kickboard)?
A plinth (or kickboard) is the horizontal panel fitted at floor level beneath kitchen base units to conceal support legs, water pipes, and electrical wiring.
The plinth, also called a kickboard, is the board that runs along the floor beneath your base units. It fills the gap between the unit legs and the ground, creating a finished look while hiding the structural supports and service runs (water pipes, waste lines, electrical cables) that sit underneath.
Plinths serve both practical and aesthetic purposes. They protect pipes and wiring from damage, keep debris and moisture from accumulating behind units, and give the kitchen a cleaner appearance than exposed legs would provide. They also make cleaning easier by eliminating gaps where dirt can collect.
Common materials include:
- MDF or chipboard (most affordable, often matching unit finish)
- Solid wood (oak, ash, or walnut for quality installations)
- Stainless steel or aluminium (modern kitchens, better durability)
- Vinyl or laminate wraps (budget option, varied finishes)
Plinths are typically 100 to 150 mm tall. Some are removable or have access panels for plumbing maintenance, while others are fixed permanently. Your kitchen fitter will choose materials and heights to suit your base units and design scheme. A professional kitchen fitter will ensure plinths are level, properly secured, and finished to match or complement your kitchen aesthetics.