When installing cabinets, most installers prefer to mount the ____________ units first.?

Author: Ms. Antonia Fay  |  Last update: Tuesday, September 2, 2025

Some installers swear by installing the walls 1st so the base cabinets are not in your way, while others prefer to have base cabinets in 1st and then walls. There is not right or wrong here and it is all personal preference and what you are most comfortable with.

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.

Which cabinet do you install first?

Expert Tips for Installing Base Cabinets
  1. If you're installing both upper cabinets and base cabinets, always install the upper cabinets first. ...
  2. If you're installing a new floor, this is the best time to do so since you can run it under the cabinetry – unless you're installing a floating floor.

When installing kitchen cabinets do you install the top or bottom first?

Always install the upper cabinets before the lower cabinets. This way you won't have to awkwardly work over the lower cabinets, risking damaging them in the process. Once you've assembled the cabinets according to the manufacturer's instructions, remove the doors if attached and set them out of harm's way.

How are kitchen cabinets anchored to the wall?

Installing upper cabinets starts with answering the question: How are kitchen cabinets attached to the wall? Typically, this is done by using a stud finder to locate studs and by drilling wood screws through drywall to attach the cabinet.

How To Install PERFECT KITCHEN CABINETS (DIY GUIDE)

What do you install first floor or cabinets?

As a general recommendation, it's more cost-effective to install your cabinetry first. Many experts suggest leaving the kickboards off your cabinets until the flooring is laid. This allows the flooring to go slightly under the cabinets, creating a cleaner look.

What order do you install a kitchen?

Fitting a kitchen from start to finish
  1. Prepare your kitchen. ...
  2. Assemble your kitchen cabinets. ...
  3. Start kitchen cabinets installation. ...
  4. Paint. ...
  5. Install new flooring. ...
  6. Add the finishing touches to your cabinets. ...
  7. Begin kitchen worktops installation. ...
  8. Start installing a kitchen sink.

Do you install cabinets or appliances first?

It depends on your priorities. If functionality is your main concern, it's advisable to choose appliances first. However, if style and space are your key considerations, start with the cabinets. In either scenario, ensure accurate measurements to avoid unnecessary purchases.

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.

Why are kitchen cabinets on legs?

For clients who have a small kitchen, cabinets with legs are a must. They help to increase storage space in compact kitchens. By lifting the cabinets off the ground, they can create more space for storage underneath them. This is especially useful if there are a lot of small items that need to be stored away.

Do you fit a kitchen wall or base unit first?

Normally a fitter will start with the base units starting at the corner and working out and around the room and then move on to the wall units working in a similar way. 12. The next step is the installation of the new worktops and the sink. Worktops are cut out to size and jointed.

What is the best arrangement of kitchen cabinets?

How to organize kitchen cabinets
  • Place smaller items inside larger and stack flatter items. ...
  • Store heavy items in lower cabinets. ...
  • Display pots and pans. ...
  • Choose cool, dark and dry spaces for food storage. ...
  • Arrange food items by size and type. ...
  • Move older food items to the front to use first. ...
  • Repackage opened bulk food items.

Can kitchen cabinets be installed on top of 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.

Should you paint or install kitchen cabinets first?

You want rich, full paint coverage that lasts throughout all of the kitchen's trials. Painting the cabinets first ensures they cure perfectly. You can fully cover each cabinet surface. Each coat looks good from all angles.

What order do you install cabinets?

Instructions
  1. Step 1: Attach the Ledger. ...
  2. Step 2: Measure the Cabinets. ...
  3. Step 3: Drill the Cabinets. ...
  4. Step 4: Mount the First Hanging Cabinet. ...
  5. Step 5: Mount the Second Cabinet. ...
  6. Step 6: Drill and Connect the Upper Cabinets. ...
  7. Step 7: Fill the Gaps. ...
  8. Step 8: Finish Mounting the Wall Cabinet.

What is the order of operations for a kitchen remodel?

Time to remodel

Install insulation and drywall. Paint the walls and ceiling. Install the flooring. Install the cabinetry and countertops.

Should flooring be installed before or after kitchen units?

Even plumbers have a say in this debate. Because kitchen units often involve plumbing connections, integration becomes a problem if flooring is chosen to be installed after the cabinets. Laying flooring first allows plumbers to secure pipes and lines more efficiently and avoid unnecessary adjustments later.

In what order do you replace a kitchen?

“When it comes to the actual kitchen installation, cabinets will come first, with sinks and appliances thereafter to help set out the kitchen and allow for the worktops to be templated prior to manufacture.” If you are repainting existing cabinets, if possible, get it done professionally offsite if this can't be done ...

Do you tile or cabinets first?

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 comes first when remodeling a kitchen?

The first step of any kitchen remodel is tear out and demolition. Before you are ready to create a beautiful new space, it is important to demolish and get rid of what's outdated or worn out. This is the time when you rip out anything you don't want to keep including walls, cabinetry, flooring, fixtures, or more.

Do you attach hinges to cabinet door or frame first?

First thing is to attach the hinges to the door, determine how the door fits on the frame hole, and then aligning the door evenly on the cabinet.

How do you install new cabinet doors on old cabinets?

If you feel confident in your ability to install the cabinet doors yourself, then follow the steps below:
  1. Step 1: Remove the Current Doors. ...
  2. Step 2: Measuring your Doors. ...
  3. Step 3: Add the Overlay. ...
  4. Step 4: Order the Doors and Hinges. ...
  5. Step 5: Install the Hinges. ...
  6. Step 6: Mount the Doors. ...
  7. Step 7: Adjust the Doors.

What are the three types of hinges?

This visual guide highlights different types of hinges and their design and purpose.
  • Butt Hinge. The most common type of hinge used on doors is the butt hinge. ...
  • Rising Butt Hinge. A rising butt hinge raises the door 1/2-inch to clear a thick-pile carpet or threshold. ...
  • Offset Hinge.

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