Kitchen cabinet installation is a crucial part of any kitchen remodel or new construction project. Many homeowners wonder if kitchen cabinets should be installed on top of the flooring or if the flooring should go in after the cabinet installation. There are pros and cons to both approaches that are important to consider when making this key design decision.
Introduction
When installing kitchen cabinets, you essentially have two options for order of operations:
- Install cabinets first, then install flooring around them
- Install flooring first, then set cabinets on top
The sequence you choose can impact your budget, the complexity of installation, and the final aesthetic of your kitchen. Carefully weighing the benefits and drawbacks of each approach will ensure you make the right choice for your specific kitchen layout and flooring type.
Installing Cabinets First
Installing cabinets before installing flooring is the more traditional method used by many contractors. Here are some benefits to this approach:
Easier Installation Process
Installing cabinets on the subfloor creates a flat, even surface for setting and securing the cabinet bases. Flooring does not need to be meticulously cut and fit around cabinets.
Better Alignment
With cabinets in place first, the flooring can be installed right up to the base of cabinets for a flush transition. Getting flooring seams and tile grout lines to align across uneven cabinet edges can be tricky.
Cabinets Hide Flooring Edges
The cabinet base and toe kick will conceal the flooring edge, protecting it from damage and hiding any minor gaps or uneven cuts. This gives you more leeway with flooring installation around cabinets.
Kitchen Remains Usable
The kitchen can remain fully functional with cabinets installed and no flooring during the remodel process. The cabinet bases provide a clean, finished floor surface.
Installing Flooring First
While less common, some homeowners opt to install new floors before cabinetry. Reasons for this approach include:
Floors Flow Seamlessly
Flooring runs uninterrupted under cabinets with no edges to align. This can give a smoother, more seamless look.
Floors Get Finished Properly
New floors can be sanded, stained, and sealed without obstruction from cabinets. Cabinet bases can make it difficult to refinish floors during a remodel.
Easier Flooring Installation
Without cabinets in place, new floors can be installed quickly and easily with full access to the entire kitchen footprint. Custom cutting is minimized.
Cabinets Have Firm Support
Cabinets sit securely anchored to the flooring substrate. This prevents any shifting or settling that could misalign cabinets over time.
Key Considerations for Order of Installation
When deciding between installing cabinets or flooring first, keep the following factors in mind:
- Flooring type – Tile and stone do well installed after cabinets. Wood and laminate are better installed before.
- Toe kick style – Floor-mounted toe kicks make installing floors first easier.
- Appliance access – Floors installed first allow appliances to be moved in and out without damaging new floors.
- ** cabinet style** – Custom designs may require adjusting if floors go in first.
- Permits – Some areas require cabinets or floors be installed by licensed pros in a certain order.
Pro Tips for Getting It Right
- Leave cabinet bases exposed to create a “floating floor” look if desired.
- Use filler strips and shims during cabinet installation to compensate for flooring thickness.
- Check flooring manufacturer instructions – some require installation before or after cabinets.
- Use leveling feet instead of shims when a flooring-first approach is used.
Do Kitchen Cabinets Sit on Top of Flooring?
Yes, kitchen cabinets can sit on top of finished flooring.
This is an acceptable option, especially for tile, stone, and very durable flooring materials. It simplifies installation and allows floors to run seamlessly under cabinets.
However, installing cabinets first on the subfloor is still the standard method. It offers a more customizable finished look and is suitable for more flooring types like wood and laminate.
Ultimately, the “right” order comes down to the design, flooring selection, skill of the installer, and homeowners preferences. Evaluating all the pros and cons for your specific kitchen will determine the best approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should hardwood floors go in before or after kitchen cabinets?
For most situations, it is recommended to install hardwood floors before installing kitchen cabinets. This allows the wood flooring to be sanded, finished and sealed properly without any obstruction from cabinetry.
What order should you install laminate flooring and kitchen cabinets?
It is generally best practice to install laminate flooring prior to installing kitchen cabinets. This allows the laminate boards to run uninterrupted under the cabinets for a smooth look.
Can you put tile under kitchen cabinets?
Yes, ceramic and porcelain tile can be installed under kitchen cabinets. The cabinet bases will conceal the flooring edges. Use filler strips during cabinet installation to account for the extra thickness of the floor tile.
Should you install tile before or after cabinets?
Tile can be installed before or after cabinets with minimal issues. Tiling after cabinet installation creates a flush transition. Tile installed before allows for unbroken runs under cabinet bases.
What order should you install granite countertops and cabinets?
Kitchen cabinets should be installed first, with countertops fabricated and installed after. Accurately measuring for granite tops requires cabinets to be leveled, secured, and made ready for countertop installation.
Conclusion
Choosing whether to mount kitchen cabinets on top of new flooring or install flooring after cabinets requires considering project scope, flooring materials, and personal preference. While the traditional method is installing cabinets first, flooring-first is growing in popularity due to some advantages it offers. Carefully evaluate all factors to decide the best order of operations for your kitchen remodeling project. With proper planning and skilled installers, you can achieve an integrated, high-quality result.