Can you put cabinets on top of flooring?

Author: Otha Hahn  |  Last update: Saturday, May 24, 2025

The second option is to lay the floor first and install the base cabinets on top of the finished floor. I personally like this method if using a very long lasting durable floor like hardwood or upscale tile. I would not do this over vinyl or cheap flooring that will not outlast the cabinets.

Do cabinets go on top of flooring?

In most cases, it's best to install the flooring first, as this provides a more finished look and makes it easier to install and level the cabinets. However, there are situations where installing the flooring after the cabinets may be more practical.

Should you remove flooring before installing cabinets?

For optimal results in home renovations, cabinets should be installed before the flooring. This ensures a level surface, making cabinet placement easier and providing a polished look. Additionally, it safeguards the flooring from potential damage during installation.

Can I install kitchen cabinets over vinyl plank flooring?

YES. It works well for new construction projects which require installing the flooring first. Show caution when installing cabinets over the new flooring. Avoid dropping tools or equipment.

Can you put cabinets directly on a subfloor?

Yes and no. It really depends on your preference, the type of cabinet, and more importantly, on the type of kitchen flooring you have and how it is installed. It isn't necessary to have your kitchen cabinets sit on the subfloor, and it certainly isn't the desired option among contractors.

We Installed Kitchen Cabinets (on an uneven floor)

Why do cabinets need a base?

For those unfamiliar with the term, base cabinets are a type of kitchen cabinet that is installed to the floor. These cabinets provide structural support for counters and other kitchen surfaces. In addition, they usually offer storage in the form of drawers or shelves within which items can be stored and organized.

Can you put a refrigerator on top of vinyl plank flooring?

Since most furniture will not go under just one plank, it is perfectly safe for bulky furniture and refrigerators to go on vinyl plank flooring. Vinyl plank flooring will not be damaged or cracked by home appliances' weight due to its strong durability.

How much weight can you put on vinyl plank flooring?

How Much Weight Can Vinyl Plank Flooring Withstand? A single vinyl plank can handle up to 500 pounds of weight. Of course, it's important to note that most heavy appliances, like a refrigerator, are much larger than a single vinyl plank. Its weight will be evenly distributed between several planks and not just one.

Can you put cabinets on top of floating floor reddit?

As other people have said, don't go over a floating floor (no exceptions) since the cabinets will pin it in place and stop the expansion and contraction. Glue down vinyl tile, vinyl planks, engineered hardwood and nail-down solid and engineered hardwood are acceptable for before cabinets if you want.

Do you install hardwood flooring under cabinets?

Flooring should run under cabinets, unless you are doing a floating floor, which you should then install plywood to bring the cabinets up to the same height as the finished floor.

Should flooring go under the dishwasher?

For instance, built-in appliances, like wall ovens or cooktops, often don't need flooring underneath since they are more permanent fixtures. In contrast, movable appliances like refrigerators and dishwashers benefit from having flooring underneath to prevent movement and protect against potential leaks.

Do you install cabinets or LVP first?

However, for floating floors (like engineered hardwood, laminate, or vinyl plank), the floors need room to expand and contract, so placing cabinets on them can cause issues. The opposite holds true if you have a floating or vinyl floor – you will want to install the cabinets before your flooring.

Can you replace a kitchen subfloor without removing cabinets?

It is possible to change out areas of your subfloor without removing your kitchen cabinets, but it must be done very carefully and probably with professional guidance.

Why don't you put flooring under kitchen cabinets?

Because of this installation process, its recommended cabinets go in before floating floors. Cabinets, especially those with heavy stone countertops, could damage your floating floors. These types of floors also shift, expand, contract and settle after installation, causing the cabinets on top of them to move.

Is a kitchen cabinet base necessary?

The base of kitchen cabinets is crucial not just for aesthetics but also for functionality and durability. A well-constructed cabinet base provides essential support and stability, ensuring that your kitchen remains both beautiful and practical.

What is floating a floor?

A floating floor is a floor that does not need to be nailed or glued to the subfloor. The term floating floor refers to the installation method, but is often used synonymously with laminate flooring. It is applied now to other coverings such as floating tile systems and vinyl flooring in a domestic context.

Can you put a vanity on top of vinyl plank flooring?

As for furniture, it is okay to have furnishings on top of your floor. Invest in felt pads to attach to the bottom of your furnishings so any movements do not damage your vinyl plank flooring.

Can I put a stove on top of vinyl plank flooring?

Do not place stove directly on carpeting, vinyl tile or any combustible material other than wood.

Can you put heavy furniture on laminate flooring?

Laminate flooring is a durable and attractive option for any home, but it requires special care when dealing with heavy appliances and furniture. By using protective pads, sliders, and lifting techniques, you can safely place and move heavy items without causing damage to your floors.

What destroys vinyl plank flooring?

Enemies of Vinyl Flooring
  • Dirt and Grit: Acting like sandpaper, dirt and grit particles can scratch the wear layer of the vinyl, especially at entryways and high-traffic areas. ...
  • Sharp Objects: Dropping sharp objects like knives or tools can puncture or gouge vinyl.

Can a washer and dryer sit on LVP flooring?

Therefore, the best surface for a washing machine is any flooring that's strong, durable, and waterproof. The most suitable flooring for laundry rooms is waterproof hardwood flooring, waterproof laminate, or dent-proof luxury vinyl flooring.

Can a piano sit on vinyl plank flooring?

Yes, you can. Vinyl plank flooring is highly protective, featuring a variety of preservative surfaces such as a top design layer, backing and two protective layers. These durable coatings prevent scratches, scuffs, rips and tears, making it an excellent option to support the weight of pianos under 500 pounds.

Can I install cabinets on top of LVP?

No, you can't put cabinets on top of a floating vinyl floor. Like other types of floating floors, floating vinyl flooring and LVP should not be installed under cabinets.

What not to put on vinyl flooring?

Vinyl Flooring “Don'ts”
  1. Never use steel wool or abrasive scrubbers to clean your vinyl floor.
  2. Avoid using detergents, soaps, abrasive cleaners or products intended to add shine to your floors. ...
  3. Don't use wax or solvent-based polishes.
  4. Don't use ammonia or ammonia-based cleaning solutions.

How soon can you walk on LVP flooring after installation?

Tiles or planks that are glued down, however, need time to set. This process takes at least 48 hours. Like luxury vinyl, carpet and laminate that is not glued to the subfloor can be walked on immediately. Brands that must be glued down are not ready for furniture for at least 24 hours.

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