Should I Put Flooring Down Before Cabinets?

Installing Flooring and Cabinets

Installing flooring and cabinets in your kitchen or bathroom is a common DIY project. The order in which you complete these tasks can affect the overall outcome of your renovation. One question that often arises is whether you should install the flooring before or after the cabinets. There’s no single right answer as the best approach depends on a variety of factors, including the type of flooring you choose, the design, and your personal preferences.

Flooring First: Advantages and Disadvantages

Installing flooring before offers a number of advantages.

Easier Installation

It can be a more straightforward process because you can easily work around the perimeter of the room. In addition, you can avoid the need to cut the pieces to fit around cabinets, which can be a tricky and time-consuming task.

More Consistent Look

Installing the flooring first allows you to create a seamless and continuous look for your floors. This is particularly important if you are using wide planks or tiles, as it prevents any gaps or uneven transitions. It also gives you a more accurate representation of the appearance, as the finished floor will extend beneath your cabinets.

Easier to Level

If you are installing new subflooring, it is often easier to level the floor before installing cabinets. This ensures that your cabinets will sit level and that your countertop will be smooth and even. However, installing flooring first also has its disadvantages.

Potential for Damage

You must take extra care during the cabinet installation process to avoid damaging the floor. This can be difficult, especially when moving heavy items into place.

Floor Accessibility

After you install cabinets, you will have limited access to the flooring under and behind them. This can make it more difficult to clean or repair any damage.

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Related Article: Why Don’t You Put Flooring Under Kitchen Cabinets?
Related Article: Should Dishwasher Be Even With Cabinets?

Things to Consider

There are a few factors to consider when deciding.

Type of Flooring

Some flooring types, like tile, are more resistant to damage than others. If you’re installing a delicate flooring, like hardwood, it is recommended to install flooring first and take extra precautions during installation.

Cabinet Design

If you are installing cabinets with a complex design, you may want to consider installing flooring first to prevent any issues with the cabinets fitting properly.

Your Skills and Resources

If you have the skills and resources to carefully cut and install flooring around cabinets, then doing the cabinets first may be a good option. If you are not confident in your ability to cut and install flooring around cabinets, then going with flooring first may be a better choice.

Personal Preference

The best approach is the one that you feel most comfortable with. Think about what factors are most important to you, and choose the option that best fits your needs.

Choosing the Best Approach

Here is a summary of the best situations for each approach:

Install Flooring First If:

• You want a seamless and continuous look for your flooring.
• You want to make sure your flooring is level before installing cabinets.
• You want to avoid cutting flooring around cabinets.
• You are installing a delicate flooring type, like hardwood.

Install Cabinets First If:

• You want to protect your flooring from damage during the installation process.
• You want to ensure that your cabinet measurements are accurate.
• You are confident in your ability to cut flooring around cabinets.

Conclusion

The decision of whether to install flooring before or after cabinets is a personal one, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each approach, along with your personal preferences and the specific details of your project. No matter which approach you choose, be sure to plan ahead and take your time to ensure a successful and beautiful renovation. [ 1 ]