Do You Install Flooring Before Kitchen Cabinets

December 14, 2017
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Do You Install Flooring Before Kitchen Cabinets?

When renovating a kitchen, the order of installation for flooring and cabinets is crucial for a seamless and aesthetically pleasing outcome. While both options have their merits, understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each approach can help you make an informed decision.

Installing Flooring Before Cabinets

Installing flooring before cabinets offers several benefits:

Fewer Seams and a Cleaner Look: This method allows for a continuous flow of flooring throughout the kitchen, resulting in a more cohesive and polished appearance.
Easier Access to Toe Kicks: If you plan on installing toe kicks (which cover the gap between cabinet doors and the floor), laying the flooring first makes it easier to measure and cut the toe kicks accurately.

However, there are also some drawbacks:

Potential for Damage: During cabinet installation, heavy appliances and tools may be moved across the flooring, increasing the risk of scratches or dents.
Limited Cabinet Placement: Installing flooring before cabinets restricts the placement of cabinets slightly, as the cabinets must be set on top of the flooring.

Installing Cabinets Before Flooring

Installing cabinets before flooring also has its advantages:

Protects Flooring from Damage: Cabinets act as a protective barrier, shielding the flooring from potential damage during installation and future kitchen activities.
Greater Flexibility: Installing cabinets first allows for more flexibility in cabinet placement, as they can be situated directly on the subfloor.

However, this approach may have some disadvantages:

More Visible Seams: The transition between flooring and cabinets may be more noticeable, especially if the flooring is not a perfect match for the cabinets.
Difficult to Access Toe Kicks: Installing toe kicks can be more challenging if the flooring is already in place.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific kitchen design and preferences. If you prioritize a seamless flooring appearance and are willing to take extra precautions to protect the flooring during cabinet installation, installing flooring before cabinets may be the ideal option.

However, if you want greater flexibility in cabinet placement and are concerned about damaging the flooring, installing cabinets before flooring might be a better choice. By weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each approach, you can make an informed decision that will ensure a beautiful and functional kitchen renovation.