It is generally recommended to leave some clearance between the side of kitchen cabinets and the wall, rather than having them flush against the wall. The clearance allows for a few important considerations:
Ventilation: Leaving a small gap between the cabinets and the wall allows for better ventilation. Kitchens generate heat and moisture, especially during cooking, and proper ventilation helps prevent the buildup of humidity and potential issues like mold and mildew.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance: Having a slight gap makes it easier to install and align the cabinets properly. It also allows for easier access for cleaning and maintenance between the cabinet and the wall.
Avoiding Damage: If the cabinets are flush against the wall, any movement or expansion of the cabinets due to temperature changes or settling could cause damage to both the cabinets and the wall.
Accommodating Uneven Walls: Walls are not always perfectly straight, and a slight gap allows for accommodating any irregularities in the wall's surface.
The recommended clearance between the cabinets and the wall is typically around 1/4 to 1/2 inch (approximately 0.6 to 1.3 cm). This should be sufficient to address the above considerations without creating an unsightly gap. The gap can be concealed using trim or molding that matches the cabinets, giving the kitchen a finished and polished look.
Always follow the guidelines and recommendations provided by the manufacturer or your kitchen designer/installer when installing kitchen cabinets to ensure a safe and functional design.