Do kitchen cabinets go on first or floor?

Author: Prof. Gerhard Borer  |  Last update: Wednesday, August 2, 2023

There are pros and cons to each installation order. That said, it is standard for the cabinet to go before the flooring, except under special circumstances as mentioned above.

Does flooring go around or under kitchen cabinets?

A quick search online brings up a lot of debate on the issue, but no clear answers, so let us simplify for you: In our opinion, you are much, much better off laying your floor up to the edges of the units and appliances, rather than trying to install underneath them.

Do kitchen cabinets sit on bare flooring or finished floor?

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.

Why don't you put flooring under kitchen cabinets?

Avoid installing wood flooring under your cabinets.

So if you install wood flooring under your kitchen cabinets you are essentially restricting this movement which can result in your flooring buckling.

Do you install floors or kitchen first?

Here are the main advantages of laying flooring first: Installation is easier: When you start with your flooring, you usually fit it to the entire kitchen area. This means it doesn't need to be cut around your cabinetry and should be quicker and easier to install. This, in turn, could save you on installation costs.

What comes first? Flooring or Cabinets?

Should I put my floor down before cabinets?

There are a few instances when the cabinet should be installed after the floor finish. One of those instances is when the flooring is expected to be significantly higher than normal. If your floor will be more than two inches high, it is recommended that you install it before putting in the appliances and cabinets.

In what order do you install a kitchen?

Numerical steps to remodeling your kitchen safely:
  1. Demolition/ Tear-Out.
  2. Rough-In Work/Plumbing & Framing.
  3. Comprehensive Inspection.
  4. Finish setting up your wall.
  5. Install all windows/doors.
  6. Install plumbing fixtures & cabinets.
  7. Install new appliances.
  8. Add new floors.

Do kitchen cabinets go on top of hardwood flooring?

Traditionally hardwood flooring is more commonly installed prior to the cabinets and sanded and finished as one of the last steps, but with the increasing popularity of prefinished hardwood flooring the risks of damage during installation becomes greater.

Do you build cabinets on top of flooring?

In most cases, installing cabinets come first before the flooring. Know that floor covering is the surface you see and walk on, where it is usually cut to size and butt up against the cabinets.

Should I install cabinets before vinyl plank flooring?

As a rule, install permanent cabinets first, then install vinyl flooring. If you install the flooring first, use only specific types of flooring under certain conditions. Let's go over those specific types of flooring.

Should kitchen cabinets touch the floor?

However, a good rule of thumb is to have your kitchen wall cabinets be somewhere between 36 and 42 inches from the floor. Wall cabinets should be 18 inches from the floor to avoid obstructing counter space and range hood access.

Should laminate flooring be installed under kitchen cabinets?

Can I install laminate flooring under cabinets? – This is one of the most common questions we hear from homeowners when they are looking for advice from laminate flooring companys near them. You should avoid installing cabinets or any other hardware that should be bolted to the floor on the laminate.

Does flooring go under appliances?

By installing flooring underneath your appliances, you'll avoid any gaps or transitions that can be visually unappealing. Protection: Another benefit of installing flooring under appliances is that it provides protection for your subfloor. Over time, appliances can leak or spill, causing damage to the subfloor.

What goes between cabinet and floor?

A thin bead of caulk can seal or fill that small gap between cabinets and floors in less than 30 minutes. I love a quick win, guys! This DIY works on gaps 1/4″ and smaller. If your gap is larger than a 1/4″, you should use trim first, like quarter round.

Do you lay flooring under dishwasher?

Yes, you should always put flooring under your dishwasher. Since dishwashers are designed to fit snugly under your countertop, this will make it much easier to remove without the need to lift it over a lip of flooring.

Should floor tiles go under kitchen cabinets?

Always install the tile to the wall, under appliances, and cabinets. Good flooring could be in place for 20 years or more.

Do kitchen cabinets go on top of tile?

Highlights. Installing your tiles before your kitchen cabinets will cut down on overall labor costs. Putting in your tiles first will help prevent water damage in your kitchen. Cabinets can be installed first if you're placing delicate tiles that might get damaged during cabinetry or appliance installation.

Can cabinets sit on floor?

If you have cabinets that are not properly anchored to the wall, then sitting them on the subfloor could cause them to tip over. However, if your cabinets are securely fastened to the wall and your subfloor is in good condition, then resting them on the floor should be fine.

Do cabinets go on top of vinyl plank flooring?

So, if you're wondering if you can put cabinets on top of vinyl plank flooring or if you can install vinyl flooring before or after cabinets, unfortunately, you should have the cabinets installed first or choose from the options described below. Recommended: Install cabinets BEFORE floating flooring.

Can you install vinyl plank flooring under kitchen cabinets?

If you are installing glue-down vinyl plank flooring, it is okay to install under cabinets. Since the planks will be glued down to the floor, they will not contract and expand with temperature changes.

Why are cabinets raised off the floor?

The primary benefit of having kitchen cabinets on legs is that they make it much easier to clean the floor underneath. Having legs on the cabinets means that you can move them around and access the floor without having to move the entire cabinet.

What comes first in kitchen remodel?

You'll need to undo the current kitchen, replace plumbing and electric, add drywall and get painting. After cabinets and flooring have been installed, it's ready for beautiful stone countertops of your choice, a stunning backsplash, and new appliances.

What gets done first in a kitchen remodel?

  • Tear Out and Demolition. The first step of any kitchen remodel is tear out and demolition. ...
  • Rough-In Work Including Framing and Plumbing. ...
  • Professional Inspection. ...
  • Finishing the Walls. ...
  • Install Doors and Windows. ...
  • Time for Cabinets and Plumbing Fixtures. ...
  • Bring in New Appliances. ...
  • Install New Flooring.

What are the 4 basic kitchen layouts?

So, let's take a look at the pros and cons of the four most common kitchen design layouts.
  • The One Wall Kitchen. ...
  • The Galley or Corridor Kitchen Layout. ...
  • L-Shaped Kitchen Layouts. ...
  • The U-Shaped Kitchen Design Layout.

What comes first doors or flooring?

Installing your flooring before the door poses several advantages. First, you will have more room to work with as the doors are out of your way. This way, you can ensure correct installation by lining your tiles appropriately, as the doors will not dictate how you lay them.

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