Installing new cabinets and tile can transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom. But deciding the order to install cabinets and tile is an important planning step. Proper sequencing will help your project go smoothly and turn out right. Here is a detailed guide on whether to install cabinets or tile first.
Should You Install Cabinets Before Tile?
Installing cabinets before adding the tile is the more common and recommended order. Here are reasons why installing cabinets first works best:
Allows Precise Tile Layout
With cabinets in place, you can measure and lay the tile precisely. The tile layout won’t be guessed based on planned cabinet size and placement. You can fit the tile layout exactly inside the cabinet footprint.
Avoids Tile Cuts Behind Cabinets
Tiling before cabinet installation means cutting tiles to fit around where cabinets will go. This leaves unfinished tile edges hidden behind cabinets. It’s better to have full tiles laid edge-to-edge before cabinet placement.
Simplifies Leveling
Any needed adjustments to level or shim cabinets are easier before tile is laid. With tile in place, corrections to level cabinets can damage the tile.
Prevents Cabinet Damage
Placing cabinets on top of tile risks cracking or chipping the tile. Heavy cabinets sitting on top of the tile surface can cause tile damage over time. Installing cabinets first avoids this.
Allows Backsplashes to Align
Tiling after cabinet installation lets you align backsplashes with the cabinet tops for a seamless look. Trying to meet up tiles with planned cabinet heights is hard.
What If Tile Is Installed First?
Sometimes there are situations where you need to or want to install the tile before adding the cabinets, such as:
- Dealing with uneven floors or walls that require establishing a level surface.
- Matching existing tile layouts in remodeling projects.
- Using the same tile throughout the space.
If tiling before cabinet installation, take steps to protect the tiles and simplify the cabinet fitting:
- Add an Underlayment: Cover the tile with plywood or cement board to prevent cabinet damage.
- Be Flexible: Use filler panels and scribe cabinet ends for an easier fit.
- Plan Carefully: Measure cabinet locations meticulously to avoid unnecessary tile cutting.
Tips for Tiling Before Cabinets
If you need to lay the tile first, follow these best practices:
- Mark cabinet locations clearly on the tile, such as taping off areas.
- Cut tile back 3 inches from cabinet edge lines to allow room for error.
- Use tile edge trim and precise cuts around cabinet edges for a clean look.
- Make sure there is a smooth, consistent surface for the cabinet installation.
FAQs About Cabinet and Tile Installation Order
Does tile go under kitchen cabinets?
Tile can be installed under kitchen cabinets. But unless you’ll have under-cabinet lighting, the tile won’t be visible, so it’s often skipped. An option is tiling just the toe-kick area.
Do you install backsplash before or after countertops?
Backsplashes go in after countertops. You’ll want the countertop in place before installing the backsplash so the two can be aligned properly.
Should bathroom tile go all the way up behind vanity?
Bathroom wall tile does not necessarily have to go all the way behind a vanity. It can stop above or below. For moisture protection, seal the gap between the tile and wall.
Can tile go over laminate countertops?
Tile cannot be installed directly over laminate countertops. Laminate is too thin to support tile. A substrate like cement board needs to be added first to create a suitable surface.
Should tile or cabinets be installed first in a bathroom?
As with a kitchen, it’s typically best to install bathroom cabinets before laying the tile for the same reasons like avoiding tile damage and achieving the right layout.
How do you install cabinets on uneven tile?
For cabinets on uneven tile, use shims under the cabinet base to level and support the weight. A plywood subfloor added over the tile also helps create an even mounting surface.
Conclusion
Installing cabinets before laying the tile is the surest path to a flawless kitchen or bathroom project. Tiling after cabinet installation allows precise tile layout, clean edges, and proper alignment. If tiling first, careful planning and cabinet modifications are needed. Focus on creating a smooth, stable surface for cabinet installation. With attention to detail either order can result in beautiful, durable results.