Flooring Or Kitchen Cabinets First: What You Need To Know

Flooring Or Kitchen Cabinets First: What You Need To Know

Renovating your kitchen can be an exciting but overwhelming experience. One of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is whether to install the flooring or kitchen cabinets first. I recently went through this process myself and wanted to share my personal experience and research on the best approach.

Step by Step Guide for Current Trends on Flooring or Kitchen Cabinets First

Step 1: Plan Your Layout

The first step is to plan the layout of your kitchen. Consider the size of your cabinets and appliances, as well as the layout of your flooring. This will help you determine which should be installed first.

Step 2: Check Your Subfloor

Before starting any installation, make sure your subfloor is in good condition. If you’re installing tile or hardwood, a level subfloor is essential. If your subfloor needs repairs, it’s best to do this before installing any cabinets or flooring.

Step 3: Install Cabinets First

Many professionals recommend installing kitchen cabinets first. This allows for a seamless look and ensures that the cabinets are level and secure. It’s also easier to install cabinets before the flooring since there’s no need to cut around them.

Step 4: Install Flooring Second

Once your cabinets are in place, it’s time to install your flooring. This will give you a better idea of the amount of flooring you’ll need and allows for easier installation around the cabinets.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas on Flooring or Kitchen Cabinets First

1. Plan your layout carefully to determine which should be installed first.
2. Check your subfloor for any necessary repairs before beginning any installation.
3. Many professionals recommend installing kitchen cabinets first for a seamless look.
4. Installing cabinets first also ensures they are level and secure.
5. Installing flooring second allows for easier installation around the cabinets.
6. If you’re installing tile or hardwood, a level subfloor is essential.
7. Consider the type of flooring you’re installing and whether it will need to be cut around cabinets.
8. Make sure to measure carefully to ensure you have enough flooring or cabinets.
9. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of installation for both flooring and cabinets.
10. Consult with a professional if you’re unsure which to install first.

Pros and Cons of Flooring or Kitchen Cabinets First

Pros:

• Installing cabinets first allows for a seamless look.
• Cabinets that are installed first are level and secure.
• Installing flooring second allows for easier installation around the cabinets.
• Installing flooring last allows for a better idea of the amount of flooring needed.

Cons:

• If installing flooring first, cabinets may not fit perfectly.
• Installing cabinets first may make it difficult to make changes to the layout.
• Installing flooring last may result in damage to new cabinets during installation.

My Personal Review and Suggestion on Flooring or Kitchen Cabinets First

After going through the renovation process myself, I would highly recommend installing kitchen cabinets first. This allowed for a seamless look and ensured that the cabinets were level and secure. Installing flooring second was also relatively easy, and we were able to make any necessary adjustments around the cabinets.

Question & Answer / FAQs

Q: Can I install flooring first?

A: While it’s possible to install flooring first, it may make installation of cabinets more difficult and may result in cabinets not fitting perfectly.

Q: Do I need to repair my subfloor before installation?

A: Yes, it’s important to make sure your subfloor is in good condition before beginning any installation.

Q: Is it more expensive to install cabinets or flooring first?

A: The cost of installation is likely to be similar regardless of whether cabinets or flooring are installed first. However, it’s important to factor in the cost of any necessary repairs or adjustments.

Q: Can I make changes to the layout after installing cabinets first?

A: It may be more difficult to make changes to the layout after installing cabinets first, so it’s important to plan carefully before beginning any installation.