According to the general rule of thumb for kitchen remodels, you should install kitchen cabinets after laying the flooring but before installing the countertops.
Understanding the proper sequence of a kitchen renovation is crucial for a smooth and efficient project. The timing of cabinet installation fits into a specific step within this process.
The Recommended Kitchen Remodel Sequence
Following a logical order helps protect new finishes and ensures subsequent installations go smoothly. Based on standard practices, here is the typical sequence for a kitchen remodel:
- Preparation and Demolition: Clear the space, remove old fixtures and finishes.
- Rough-In Work: Complete plumbing, electrical, and HVAC work within the walls and floors.
- Install Drywall/Wall Finishes: Patch or install new drywall, prepare walls for painting.
- Painting: Paint walls and ceiling before major installations to make the job easier and neater.
- Lay the Flooring: Install the new kitchen flooring.
- Install the Kitchen Cabinets: Place and secure the base and wall cabinets.
- Install Countertops: Measure, fabricate, and install the new countertops.
- Install Backsplash: Add the backsplash behind countertops and stove.
- Install Fixtures and Appliances: Bring in the sink, faucet, major appliances, hardware, and light fixtures.
- Final Touch-Ups: Complete any remaining painting, cleaning, and finishing details.
As the reference material states, "The general rule of thumb with kitchen remodels is to follow this order: lay the flooring, install the kitchen cabinets, glue down the countertops and install backsplash, and then bring in the appliances, sink, hardware, light fixtures and backsplash for the final touches." This places cabinet installation clearly after the flooring is down and before countertops and appliances are installed.
Why This Order?
Installing cabinets after flooring offers several advantages:
- Protection: The new floor is already installed and can be protected while cabinets are being moved and fitted.
- Accurate Fit: Installing cabinets on top of the finished floor ensures they are at the correct height relative to the floor plane, especially important for ensuring dishwashers and other under-counter appliances fit properly.
- Cleaner Process: Installing cabinets before countertops makes it easier to secure them directly to the walls and floor structure without working around heavy slabs.
Conversely, installing flooring after cabinets can be more difficult, requiring precise cuts around the cabinet bases and potentially leading to issues with appliance fit or future floor replacement.
Steps for Cabinet Installation Readiness
Before the cabinets arrive and installation begins, ensure these steps are completed:
- The floor is fully installed and level.
- Walls are painted (at least the first coat).
- Rough plumbing and electrical are correctly placed for appliance hookups within the cabinet layout.
- The subfloor is sound if installing directly onto it (though installing on the finished floor is the general rule).
Following this recommended sequence, particularly installing cabinets after flooring, helps create a solid foundation for the rest of your kitchen remodel.
