Does flooring go in before kitchen cabinets?

Flooring or Cabinets First? The Ultimate Guide to Kitchen Renovations

If you’re thinking about remodeling your kitchen, you might be wondering which comes first: cabinets or flooring. It’s a common question with no one-size-fits-all solution. Here are a few things to think about before making your decision:

Budget: If you only have a limited budget, you may have to choose between the two. If you can’t afford both new cabinets and new flooring, for example, you may have to choose which is more important to your overall design.

Functionality: If your existing cabinets are in good condition but your flooring is outdated or damaged, replacing the floors first may make more sense. However, if your cabinets are old and inefficient but your floors are in good condition, new cabinets may be a better option.

Design: Your overall design will also influence which comes first. For example, if you want to install new hardwood floors but must match the stain of your existing cabinets, the floors must be installed first so that they can be stained before the cabinets are installed.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Installing Cabinets or Flooring First

Installing Cabinets First:

Pros:

• Easier to level and adjust cabinets if floors are not in place
• Cabinets can be installed without damaging the flooring
• Allows for a more accurate measurement of flooring needed
• Cabinets can be installed faster, which may speed up the overall renovation timeline

Cons:

• May limit flooring options, as certain materials require cabinets to be in place first
• If the flooring is not installed correctly, it may not align properly with the cabinets

Installing Flooring First:

Pros:

• Allows for more flooring options, as cabinets can be adjusted to fit
• Easier to install flooring without cutting around cabinets
• May result in a cleaner and more seamless look overall

Cons:

• Cabinets may not sit level on an uneven floor
• Flooring may be damaged during cabinet installation
• Cabinets may take longer to install, which could slow down the overall renovation timeline

Tips for Keeping Everything Level and Square

1. Always use a level when measuring for cabinets. This will ensure that your cabinets are square and level.

2. After you’ve installed your cabinets, use a level to ensure they didn’t shift during installation.

3. When installing hardwood floors, use a laser level to get an accurate reading. This will help to ensure that your floors are square and level.

4. Always double-check your measurements and cut only once! This old adage comes in handy when working with levels and squares. Measuring twice will assist you in avoiding mistakes that could derail the entire project.

How to Prepare Your Floor for Cabinet Installation

If you’re installing new cabinets in your kitchen or bathroom, you’ll need to spend some time first preparing your floors. Here are a few pointers to help you get the job done correctly:

1. Take out all existing cabinets and countertops. This will free up space in your workspace and allow you to properly measure for your new cabinets.

2. Before beginning the installation, make sure your tile floors are level. Cabinet doors and drawer fronts can be damaged by uneven tiles.

3. It is critical to protect the flooring from scratches and scuffs when installing cabinets on a wood floor. Cover the area where the cabinets will be installed with plywood or cardboard sheets.

4. When measuring for new cabinets, remember to include any appliances that will be installed next to them. (dishwasher, stove, etc.). This ensures that your doors and drawers open and close properly without collapsing.

5. Once everything has been measured and cut, it is time to begin installing the base cabinets. Work your way up by installing the wall cabinets first. Finally, if desired, add any trim molding or hardware.

As you can see, the order in which cabinets and flooring are installed is critically important. According to the experts, cabinetry should always be installed first to ensure a more secure installation. Furthermore, having your flooring in place prior to installing cabinets allows you to avoid any damage or warping caused by spills or leaks. Follow these expert tips and install your cabinetry before laying down any new flooring to ensure that your kitchen renovation goes smoothly and looks perfect for years to come!