Installing new flooring and cabinets can totally transform the look and feel of a home. But deciding which to install first – the flooring or the cabinets – is an important consideration during kitchen or bathroom remodels. Careful planning of the installation sequence can help the project go smoothly and result in a beautiful finished space.
Factors to Consider
When determining whether to install flooring or cabinets first during a remodel, there are a few key factors to take into account:
Type of Flooring
The type of new flooring you select will impact the decision on installation order. For example:
- Tile, stone, or vinyl that needs to be adhered to the subfloor is best installed before cabinets. This allows the flooring to be placed under the toe-kick area.
- Wood or laminate floating floors are generally installed after cabinets. This prevents the flooring from being damaged during cabinet installation.
- Carpet is also best installed after cabinet installation to avoid damage.
Cabinets and Layout
The design of the cabinets and overall kitchen or bathroom layout will also influence the decision.
- If the cabinets have elevated toe-kicks or sit on top of the floor, the flooring can be installed first or after.
- For slab or flush-toe cabinets that sit directly on the floor, installing the flooring first is best.
- Island cabinets or other floor-mounted fixtures should have the flooring underneath installed prior.
Transition Areas
Looking at the transition areas between rooms can help determine the order.
- If the same flooring extends into other areas, installing it first creates a seamless look.
- Transition strips can be added if flooring differs between rooms. This allows the cabinet flooring to be done separately.
Install Flooring First Pros and Cons
Installing the new flooring before cabinet installation has some advantages but also comes with a few drawbacks to consider:
Pros
- Creates a smooth, seamless look if flooring extends into other rooms.
- Flooring underneath toe-kicks is easy to integrate.
- Any imperfections in the subfloor will be covered by flooring and cabinets.
- Cabinets and other fixtures can be placed directly on top of the installed flooring.
Cons
- Flooring may get damaged during cabinet installation.
- Edge trim pieces may be needed for a finished look around cabinets.
- Later flooring repairs or replacements may be complicated by existing cabinets.
- Adjusting cabinet height or leveling issues is harder on an installed floor.
Install Cabinets First Pros and Cons
Putting in the cabinetry before installing the new flooring also has some pros and cons:
Pros
- Cabinets can be leveled and secured properly to the subfloor without an existing flooring layer.
- Flooring can be inserted partially under toe-kicks for seamless look.
- No trim pieces needed around cabinet edges since flooring is installed afterward.
- Reduced risk of damage to flooring from cabinet installation and later plumbing work.
Cons
- Edge of flooring around cabinets must be cut precisely for a tight fit.
- Flooring installation requires working carefully around existing cabinets.
- Toe-kicks may need to be detached and reattached to insert flooring underneath.
- Transition strips likely needed between rooms if flooring differs.
Recommended Order for Common Flooring
Based on the factors above, here are the generally recommended installation sequences for some popular kitchen and bathroom flooring options:
- Tile or stone flooring: Install tile/stone first, then cabinets on top. Provides durable surface for cabinets and seamless look.
- Vinyl plank: Install vinyl before cabinets for toe-kick continuity. Be mindful of possible damage during cabinet installation.
- Solid hardwood: Install cabinets first, then hardwood. Allows flooring to expand/contract under cabinets.
- Laminate: Install cabinets first, then laminate floor for damage prevention and flexibility.
- Carpet: Install cabinets prior to carpet for easiest installation and to prevent damage.
Tips for Installation Order
Here are some additional tips to help decide the best installation order for your kitchen or bathroom remodel:
- Review flooring and cabinet specifications to check for any manufacturer instructions on required install order.
- Examine the current subfloor condition and prep needed – this may influence order.
- For heavy cabinets like island or stone tops, have flooring installed first for adequate support.
- Check that cabinet design allows for flooring to slip under toe area if going flooring first.
- Consider which existing appliances/fixtures must be removed and reinstalled during the remodel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you install cabinets or flooring first?
The recommended order depends on the specific flooring type and cabinets being installed. As a general rule, go cabinets first for wood, laminate, and carpet flooring. Install tile, stone, or vinyl floors before cabinetry.
Can you install cabinets over existing flooring?
In some cases, yes. Elevated cabinet designs can be installed over existing flooring layers. The condition of the current flooring must be checked first. Damaged or uneven floors will need repairing prior to cabinet installation.
Should you replace kitchen flooring before or after?
For most kitchen flooring projects, it’s best to install the new flooring after installing the new kitchen cabinets. This prevents possible damage during cabinet installation and allows for easy integration of flooring into the toe-kick space.
However, tile, stone, or vinyl floors are often better installed prior so they can run seamlessly under the cabinets.
What order should you remodel kitchen?
The typical recommended order for kitchen remodels is:
- Demolition & Prep Work
- Rough Electrical & Plumbing
- Install Cabinets & Modify Walls
- Install Countertops & Sinks
- Install Flooring
- Finish Plumbing & Electrical
- Add Finishing Touches
Should you install backsplash before or after cabinets?
The backsplash should be installed after the kitchen cabinets. Cabinets and countertops need to be in place first to get accurate measurements for the backsplash. Waiting also prevents damage to the backsplash tiles during cabinet installation.
Conclusion
Determining whether to install new floors or cabinets first is an important sequencing decision when remodeling a kitchen, bathroom, or other space in the home. Carefully considering the type of flooring, cabinet design, layout, transitions, and prep work needed will lead to choosing the best order for your project. Following manufacturer guidelines and accounting for subsequent installation and repair accessibility can also help inform the decision. With some advance planning, you can create the perfect install sequence for a smooth and successful remodel resulting in a beautiful new space.