If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, one of the decisions you’ll need to make is whether to install your flooring before or after your kitchen cabinets. This decision can have a significant impact on the overall look and functionality of your kitchen, so it’s important to consider the pros and cons of each approach. In this blog, we’ll explore whether it’s better to install wood flooring or luxury vinyl flooring before or after installing kitchen cabinets.
Installing Wood Flooring Before Kitchen Cabinets
One option is to install wood flooring before the kitchen cabinets are installed. This approach has several advantages. First, it allows you to have a continuous flow of flooring throughout the entire kitchen, which can create a seamless and cohesive look. Additionally, it makes it easier to install the flooring underneath the cabinets and appliances, which can help prevent moisture buildup and other potential issues.
However, there are also some potential downsides to installing wood flooring before the kitchen cabinets. For example, if you change your mind about the cabinet layout or design after the flooring is installed, you may need to adjust the flooring as well. Additionally, if the cabinets are not perfectly level or if there are gaps between the cabinets and the walls, it can be difficult to install the flooring evenly and may require extra work to make it fit correctly. To keep the cabinets even, this type of installation can only be done with a nail or staple down wood flooring. Floating will cause the flooring to move and shift more often which can cause damage to the cabinets over time.
Installing wood Flooring After Kitchen Cabinets
You could also choose to install your wood flooring after the kitchen cabinets are installed. This approach can help prevent any potential damage to the flooring during the cabinet installation process. Additionally, it allows you to make any necessary adjustments to the cabinets before the flooring is installed, which can ensure a perfect fit.
However, installing wood flooring after the kitchen cabinets are installed can also create some challenges. For example, it can be difficult to install the flooring underneath the cabinets and appliances, which can make it more prone to moisture buildup and other potential issues. Additionally, it can create seams or transitions between the flooring and cabinets that may not be as seamless or cohesive as if the flooring had been installed first.
Installing Luxury Vinyl Flooring Before Kitchen Cabinets
Another type of flooring you will come across in a kitchen is luxury vinyl. This is a waterproof, floating click together floor which cannot be installed underneath heavy cabinetry. As stated before, with a floating floor, you have shifts and movement in the subfloor and in wood flooring that can separate and damage the connection of your cabinets. You will need to install around your cabinets for this type of flooring. This provides less opportunity for scratching your flooring and with its thinner profile, it’s easier to install underneath your baseboards and appliances.
However, there are also some potential downsides to installing vinyl flooring after the kitchen cabinets. For example, vinyl flooring requires the use of base shoe and other moldings to be sure the gaps are covered on the edging.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision of whether to install flooring before or after installing kitchen cabinets comes down to personal preference and the specifics of your kitchen remodel. It’s important to carefully consider the pros and cons of each approach and to consult with a professional installer to ensure that you get the best results possible.