As kitchen cabinet refinishers, we get asked this question quite frequently. There is no right or wrong answer and is more a matter of personal preference.What is quarter round? Also known as shoe or toe molding, it is used at the bottom of baseboards and cabinets to cover a small gap or uneven edge between the flooring and the baseboard.
However, if you are still not sure before getting your kitchen cabinets refinished, below is the list of scenarios and recommendations for each. In addition, the pictures below illustrate the different scenarios.
Scenario: Hardwood floors in kitchen with stained quarter-round throughout surrounding rooms
Recommendation: Stay consistent with the stained quarter-round in surrounding rooms for cohesiveness.
Scenario: Hardwood floors in kitchen with painted quarter-round throughout surrounding rooms
Recommendation: Paint the quarter-round molding the color the kitchen cabinets will be refinished with.
Scenario: Ceramic tile, stone, cement, linoleum or any other flooring (other than hardwood flooring)
Recommendation: Paint the quarter-round molding the color the kitchen cabinets will be refinished with.
Quarter round stained the color of the hardwood flooring
Quarter round molding painted the color of the cabinets with travertine flooring
Quarter round painted the color of the Island with hardwood floors
As noted above, there is no right or wrong decision when it comes to staining or painting your kitchen cabinet quarter-round molding. It really comes down to what appeals to you and your own personal preference.
