Installing new cabinets and floors can significantly upgrade the look of any home. But the order in which you install cabinets and flooring is important to get the best possible outcome. Here is a detailed look at whether it’s better to install cabinets before or after new flooring.
Introduction
When renovating a kitchen or bathroom, one of the biggest decisions is choosing the sequence for installing new cabinets and flooring. It’s a hotly debated topic, with good arguments on both sides.
The main factors to consider are:
- Ease of installation
- Achieving the perfect fit between cabinets and floor
- Protecting floors during cabinet installation
Many homeowners prefer to install the flooring first, allowing cabinets to be perfectly fitted to the new floor. Others opt to install cabinets first, believing it’s easier and provides better protection for finished floors.
Below we’ll examine the pros and cons of each approach in-depth, to help you make the best decision for your home improvement project.
Installing Floors First
The Pros
- It’s easier to achieve a perfect, seamless fit between the floor and cabinet bases. Gaps are less likely when cabinets are installed on top of finished floors.
- Floors are protected during cabinet installation. With the flooring already in place, there is no risk of damaging finished floors while installing cabinets.
- Choices for flooring are flexible. Any type of flooring can be used, including wood, tile, vinyl, laminate, etc.
- Transition areas from rooms can be perfectly matched. The flooring can flow seamlessly under cabinets from one room to the next.
The Cons
- Installing flooring underneath cabinet overhangs is trickier. Extra care is needed when installing flooring beneath toekicks and other overhanging cabinet areas.
- Cabinet placement is less flexible. Cabinets must be precisely placed according to the floor layout, leaving little room for adjustments.
- Potential plumbing issues. If plumbing needs adjustment after flooring is installed, the new floor may require repairs.
Installing Cabinets First
The Pros
- Cabinets can be used to anchor flooring. Many installers prefer to nail down wood floors underneath cabinet overhangs.
- Floor finishes can flow underneath cabinets. Finishes like stain or sealers can be applied before cabinets are installed.
- Allows for cabinet adjustments. Cabinets can be easily moved or re-leveled if needed before installing floors.
- Easier access for plumbing and electrical. Flooring won’t be damaged if plumbing or electrical issues arise during cabinet installation.
The Cons
- Gaps may appear between cabinet bases and floors over time. Floors can settle and shift, leaving unsightly gaps.
- Floors must be protected during cabinet installation. Extra care is needed to avoid scuffs, dents and scratches when working around finished floors.
- Height differences in flooring from room to room can be an issue. The flooring will need to be precisely matched in height where cabinets continue into other rooms.
Key Installation Tips
Whichever install order you choose, following best practices is key to getting a perfect finished result:
For Floors First:
- Use floor protection while installing cabinets. Roll out rosin paper or cardboard and use toe-kick clamps to minimize floor contact.
- Undercut cabinet bases so flooring can slide underneath. This prevents gaps from forming over time.
- Seal any seams and edges thoroughly to prevent moisture damage.
For Cabinets First:
- Match flooring heights carefully from room to room. Use shims or underlayment to make floor heights equal where rooms join.
- Allow 1/4″ gap between cabinet bases and flooring. This allows room for expansion and contraction.
- Use filler strips and caulk for clean transitions at toe-kicks and edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you install hardwood floors or cabinets first?
Many homeowners prefer to install hardwood flooring first, then install cabinets on top for a perfect floor-to-cabinet fit. However, either approach can work well if proper precautions are taken.
What flooring works best under new kitchen cabinets?
Tile, vinyl, and engineered hardwoods are great options that install well either before or after cabinets. Carpet is not recommended, as it can harbor moisture and odors.
Can new cabinets be installed over existing flooring?
Yes, existing flooring like hardwoods or tile can be left in place if in good condition. Use shims to level cabinets and fill any gaps with caulk for a clean finish.
Should you install upper or lower cabinets first?
Most pros recommend installing the lower cabinets first, as this provides a sturdy base to attach the upper cabinets to. The countertop can also be cut and installed after the lowers are in.
How much space should be left between cabinets and floors?
Leave a 1/4″ gap between the bottom of the cabinet base (or toekick) and the floor. This allows room for the flooring to expand and contract naturally.
Conclusion
While there are good cases for installing cabinets or flooring first, most experts recommend starting with the new flooring. This allows cabinets to be perfectly fitted to the floors, and prevents any construction damage to finished floors during cabinet installation.
However, installing cabinets first can work equally well if careful floor protection and installation techniques are followed. The most important thing is using best practices for a high quality finished result, regardless of which install order you choose.
Thinking through all the details and planning ahead for your particular kitchen or bathroom layout will ensure your cabinet and flooring project goes as smoothly as possible.