It’s one of the oldest kitchen remodeling debates: should you install the floors or cabinets first? The answer depends on your materials, layout, and long-term plans — but understanding the pros and cons of each will help you avoid mistakes.
Cabinets First: The Standard Approach
In most full remodels, professionals install cabinets first, followed by flooring.
Here’s why:
- You save on flooring materials by not installing them beneath base cabinets.
- Cabinets won’t scratch or dent new floors during installation.
- Countertop heights stay consistent with your subfloor.
This approach is ideal for tile, hardwood, or engineered wood floors that are nailed or glued down.
Floors First: When It Makes Sense
If your kitchen will use floating floors, such as laminate or vinyl plank, they should be installed after the cabinets. Floating floors expand and contract with temperature changes, and trapping them beneath cabinetry can cause buckling.
However, if you plan to remodel again in the future and want total flooring coverage, some homeowners choose to install flooring first for flexibility.
Additional Considerations
- Appliance Clearance: Flooring height can affect appliance fit, especially dishwashers.
- Subfloor Quality: Make sure your subfloor is level before cabinets go in.
- Trim Work: Installing floors later allows for cleaner trim and toe-kick finishes.
What the Experts Recommend
For most homes, cabinet-first installation remains the best practice. It’s efficient, cost-effective, and safe for long-term durability.
Local professionals like Magna Custom, leaders in kitchen remodeling in Pine Plains, can evaluate your materials and layout to determine the perfect order for your project.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all rule, but experience matters. The right contractor will assess your flooring type, remodel scope, and future plans before making the call. With expert guidance, your floors and cabinets will fit flawlessly — and your kitchen will look and perform beautifully for years.
