Why You Should Install Kitchen Flooring Before Cabinets

Photo features cabinets from our Luxe by ALVIC collection in the color Supermatte Antracita


Installing kitchen flooring before cabinets is widely recommended by remodeling professionals because it sets the foundation for proper alignment, future flexibility, and a polished finish. Here are some pros and cons to consider, depending on the flooring type and installation method.

Pros of Installing Flooring Before Cabinets:

  • Ensures correct cabinet and countertop height
  • Prevents appliance misalignment (e.g., dishwasher clearance)
  • Creates a cleaner, more professional appearance
  • Makes future remodels easier by allowing layout changes without needing to patch the floor

Cons / Exceptions:

  • Not ideal for floating floors, like laminate, which need room to expand
  • Slightly higher flooring material cost, since it covers areas under cabinets that won’t be visible

What’s the Right Order for a Kitchen Remodel?

To avoid costly mistakes or do-overs, it’s important to follow the correct kitchen remodel order of operations, especially when your project includes flooring, cabinets, countertops, and appliances. Most professionals recommend the following sequence:

Step1

Flooring First

Installing flooring before cabinets creates a seamless, professional look and makes future updates easier.

Step 2

Cabinets & Countertops

Set base and wall cabinets after flooring to anchor the layout and prep for countertop installation.

Step 3

Finishing Touches

Complete the remodel with countertops, backsplash, appliances, and final details like hardware and paint.

While some finishing details can vary based on contractor availability, this general order ensures everything aligns properly and fits together smoothly. Don’t forget finishing touches like cabinet accessories and moldings to give your kitchen a polished, custom-built appearance.

Photo features cabinets from our Shinnoki collection in the color Cinnamon Triba

Should You Paint Before or After Flooring?

If your kitchen remodel includes wall painting, many experts suggest installing the flooring before painting. New floors can slightly change the room’s layout and trim height, so painting afterward helps you achieve cleaner lines and better finish work. Want to control every detail of your kitchen’s final look? Our unfinished cabinets allow you to paint or stain them exactly how you like.

The Exception: Floating Floors

The only major exception to the “flooring before cabinets” rule is when you’re installing floating floors, such as laminate or some vinyl plank options.

Floating floors are designed to expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes. If you install cabinets on top of them, it can restrict that natural movement, potentially leading to buckling or gaps. In these cases, it’s better to install base cabinets first, then cut and install the flooring around them. Be sure to follow the flooring manufacturer’s guidelines to prevent long-term issues.

The Best RTA Cabinets for Your Kitchen Remodel

Kitchen renovations are among the most rewarding home improvement projects, instantly elevating the look and feel of your space. If time or budget are your top concerns, explore our wide range of stock cabinet collections that ship quickly and come in a variety of colors, styles, and materials, all at competitive prices.

Explore our collections today and bring your dream kitchen to life, affordably and beautifully.