Do kitchen cabinets sit on top of flooring?

Author: Miss Madisyn King I  |  Last update: Friday, December 26, 2025

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.

Should 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.

Why are kitchen cabinets raised off the floor?

Moisture Issues: In areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens, having cabinets that do not touch the floor can prevent water damage. If there is a spill or a leak, the gap allows air circulation and reduces the risk of mold or rot. Installation Flexibility: A gap allows for slight adjustments during installation.

Do I need to remove cabinets to install flooring?

In most cases (and many would argue, in order to do the job the right way) you should remove the cabinets when installing a new floor in your kitchen. Even if the difference in counter height is not something you are concerned with, there is still a question of appearance.

Do cabinets get attached to the floor?

Comments Section Generally, cabinets should be attached to the wall, not the floor... If your walls are also concrete, you'd want tapcon screws. Generally, but islands and peninsulas are attached to the floor.

Do You Install Flooring Before Cabinets?

Do kitchen cabinets sit on top of tile flooring?

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.

What goes between cabinet and floor?

How To Fill The Gaps Between Cabinets And The Floor
  • Cover up with caulk or wood filler.
  • Embellish the top cabinets by installing trims.
  • Place a toe kick under the bottom cabinets, or swap out the old one.
  • Use spray foam to seal off an air leak.
  • Utilize a backer rod to seal off any significant gaps.

Do you install cabinets on subfloor or finished floor?

Cabinets always go on subfloor unless there are ADA requirements for flooring under them.

How to tell if flooring runs under cabinets?

I think the easiest way to tell, look for a quarter round trim between the cabinet and the floor. If it has a quarter round, then two options: floor does not go under the cabinet, or the owner likes the look of the quarter round.

Can you level a kitchen floor without removing cabinets?

Floor leveling can be done depending what you are trying to accomplish. You do not need to remove the units and can reduce the load to unscrew the legs.

How high should kitchen cabinets be off the floor?

The standard height for upper cabinets from the floor is 54 inches, or 4 feet and 6 inches. This means the bottom of the upper cabinets should be this far from the floor. This comes from the sum of 34-and-a half-inch base cabinets, a 1-and-a-half inch thick countertop, and an 18-inch backsplash.

Which cabinets are usually installed first?

Mark and label the position of all of the upper cabinets on the wall with a pencil and level to double-check your layout. Plan to install wall kitchen cabinets first. That way, the base cabinets won't be in your way while you're installing the upper cabinets.

What should I put under kitchen cabinets?

Creative Storage Underneath Your Cabinets
  1. LED Lighting. Illuminate your counter workspace with LED lights, an alternative to florescent that's both functional and beautiful. ...
  2. Power Outlets. ...
  3. Jar Opener. ...
  4. Knife Block. ...
  5. Stemware Rack. ...
  6. Spice Rack. ...
  7. Cookbook Stand. ...
  8. Appliance Garage.

Is it better to install kitchen cabinets or flooring first?

Starting off right goes a long way to make a kitchen remodel successful. Besides having a clean start, another big reason to put down floors first is longevity. Think of the future. You'll run into more remodeling issues down the road if you put in the cabinets first.

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.

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.

Should kitchen cabinets go on top of flooring?

If your remodel also includes laying new floors, most experts agree that it's better to install kitchen flooring before cabinets.

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.

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.

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.

How long does it take to install a kitchen cabinet?

On average, kitchen cabinet installation will be completed between 2-3 days. Depending on the size of the home and extent of customization being done, larger kitchens may require an additional 1-2 days.

Do you install cabinet toe kicks before or after flooring?

Does a Toe Kick go on Before or After Flooring? Typically, a toe kick is installed after the flooring in a kitchen.

Should kitchen cabinets sit on the subfloor?

Installing heavy cabinets, particularly those with granite or stone countertops, could interfere with this type of flooring, causing it to buckle or come apart, so installing cabinets on the subfloor is recommended.

Should kitchen flooring be lighter or darker than cabinets?

Darker flooring will give your kitchen a dramatic and moody flair, especially when paired with lighter cabinets. Meanwhile, lighter flooring paired with darker cabinets will also add contrast, but the space will feel much brighter and open.

Do cabinets go on subfloor or hardwood?

Install Flooring First: In the case of new construction or kitchen remodeling, prioritize installing the hardwood flooring before placing the cabinets. This approach allows for a seamless and uniform appearance, with the flooring extending beneath the cabinets.

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