What Does the Ideal Process Look Like?

In an ideal world, here is the recommended order of operations:

1. Demo – Remove old cabinets and flooring
2. Subfloor – Install new plywood subfloor if needed
3. Cabinets – Install and level new cabinets
4. Countertops – Measure and install new countertops
5. Flooring – Install new flooring
6. Trim – Add any remaining trim pieces

Installing the flooring after the cabinets allows you to easily remove any dust or debris from the cabinets and countertops before laying the new floor down. It also enables you to fit the flooring neatly under toe kicks and other cabinet overhangs.

However, real-world factors don’t always allow for this seamless process. Budget, scheduling, and your own DIY skills may require some tweaks to the order.

Should You Lay Hardwood Floors Before Cabinets?

Installing hardwood or engineered wood flooring before cabinets is an acceptable option. Here are some benefits to this approach:

• Easier to install flooring before cabinetry and appliances are in the way
• You can complete flooring for the entire room, not just cabinet footprint
• Avoids dust and debris getting on new cabinets during flooring install

However, there are a few precautions to take:

• Use floor protection when installing cabinets to avoid damaging new floor
• Be prepared to touch up flooring scratches or dents after cabinet install
• Ensure floor is level; shims under cabinets can create uneven surfaces

Overall, going floor first works fine as long as you take care to protect the floors and do final touch ups after.

Should You Install Cabinets Before New Flooring?

Installing kitchen cabinets before laying new flooring is also a viable option. Here are some potential benefits:

• Allows you to replace subfloor or floor joists without removing cabinets
• Cabinets are installed on a stable base, not a freshly laid floor
• Creates a clean surface for floor installers to work on

Some best practices if going cabinets first:

• Check for level and plumb; shim cabinets if needed before flooring
• Plan for cabinet doors/drawers to be removed during flooring for access
• Use floor protection when moving appliances back into place

The main downside is that its harder to get flooring under toe kicks and other overhangs. Overall, either order can work well with proper planning.

What About Refacing Existing Cabinets?

If you are keeping your existing cabinet boxes but just replacing the doors, drawers and hardware, opt to refinish floors first before installing the new cabinet facades. This allows you to protect the refreshed cabinet boxes from dust and dirt during the flooring process.

Key Tips for Floors and Cabinets

When coordinating your new floors and cabinet installation, keep these tips in mind:

• Check floor level and address any uneven spots before cabinets go in
• Use floor protection films/boards during all construction phases
• Be prepared to touch up floors at the end no matter which goes first
• Ensure proper clearance under cabinet overhangs for flooring
• Make openings in cabinet bases for access during flooring, then replace
• Remove doors, drawers and hardware during cabinet or flooring install

By understanding the nuances of integrating these two major elements of your kitchen renovation, you can end up with a cohesive and professional looking result. Careful planning and protection will allow your beautiful new floors and cabinets to shine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I install my kitchen island before or after the flooring?

For a kitchen island, it’s best to install it after the finished floor is in place. This allows proper clearances all around and avoids having to protect the island during flooring.

How do I budget extra costs for my floor and cabinet installation?

Factor in at least 5-10% contingency costs for potential added expenses like subfloor repair, shimming, or post-install touch ups and alterations.

What kind of floor protection should I use during cabinet installation?

Use heavy duty floor protection films or boards to prevent scratches or dust infiltration on finished floors. Avoid cardboard as it can stick. Poly films allow installers to slide cabinets into place.

Can I install my own kitchen cabinets and flooring?

The average DIYer can install their own flooring and ready-to-assemble cabinets with proper planning. But fine wood cabinets or complex floors like herringbone patterns may require hiring pros.

How long should I wait before installing flooring after new cabinets?

It’s best practice to install flooring immediately after cabinets or within a few days. Allowing too much time exposes floors to dust and debris during subsequent project steps.

Conclusion

The ideal order is to install hardwood or other flooring after completing the cabinet and countertop installation. This keeps the new floors protected throughout construction. But the option to install flooring beforehand is also acceptable with some precautions.

Whichever route you take, planning the coordination between new floors and cabinets carefully will ensure they come together beautifully. With protection during each stage and final touch-ups at the end, you can achieve a cohesive, integrated look in your renovated kitchen.