Should You Put Flooring Down Before Kitchen Cabinets

Should You Put Flooring Down Before Kitchen Cabinets?

Installing a new kitchen is an exciting project, but it can also be daunting. One of the first decisions you'll need to make is whether to put flooring down before or after installing your kitchen cabinets.

There are pros and cons to both approaches, so it's important to weigh your options carefully before making a decision. Here's a breakdown of each option to help you make the best choice for your project:

Installing Flooring Before Cabinets

Pros:

Easier installation:

Installing flooring under cabinets can be more challenging, as you'll need to work around the cabinets and avoid damaging them. Installing the flooring first makes it easier to cut and fit around the cabinets. *

More consistent appearance:

Installing flooring first ensures that the flooring will be flush with the bottom of the cabinets, creating a more seamless and consistent look. *

Less chance of damage:

Installing flooring under cabinets can increase the risk of damaging the flooring, especially if you're using delicate materials like hardwood or tile.

Cons:

Can be more expensive:

Installing flooring before cabinets can be more expensive, as it requires more materials and labor. *

May need to remove cabinets:

If you need to make repairs to the flooring in the future, you may need to remove the cabinets, which can be a hassle. *

Can limit cabinet placement:

Installing flooring first can limit the placement of your cabinets, as they will need to be placed on top of the flooring.

Installing Flooring After Cabinets

Pros:

More flexibility:

Installing flooring after cabinets gives you more flexibility in terms of cabinet placement and design. You can choose cabinets that are any height and style, and you won't have to worry about the flooring interfering with their installation. *

Easier to repair:

If you need to make repairs to the flooring in the future, you won't need to remove the cabinets. *

Less expensive:

Installing flooring after cabinets can be less expensive, as it requires less materials and labor.

Cons:

More difficult installation:

Installing flooring around cabinets can be more difficult and time-consuming, as you'll need to cut and fit the flooring around the cabinets carefully. *

May create an uneven appearance:

Installing flooring after cabinets may create an uneven appearance, as the flooring may not be perfectly flush with the bottom of the cabinets. *

Can increase the risk of damage:

Installing flooring around cabinets can increase the risk of damaging the cabinets, especially if you're using delicate materials.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision of whether to install flooring before or after cabinets depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you want a more seamless and consistent look, installing flooring first may be the best option. However, if you're on a budget or you want more flexibility in cabinet placement, installing flooring after cabinets may be a better choice.