The kitchen is the heart of the home, and it’s no wonder most homeowners seek to make it beautiful and functional. One of the most popular ways to improve kitchens is by installing new flooring and cabinets. But a question that often arises is whether to install vinyl plank flooring before or after cabinets.
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Recently, I decided to renovate my kitchen. One of the first things I did was choose my flooring and cabinets. I planned to install vinyl plank flooring because it is affordable, stylish, and easy to maintain. I was torn, however, on whether to install the vinyl plank flooring before or after I installed my new cabinets. Since I wanted to make sure the kitchen turned out exactly how I envisioned it, I did a lot of research, and the more I delved into the topic, the more I realized how many factors I needed to consider.
Understanding the Decision: Install Vinyl Plank Flooring Before or After Cabinets
The decision to install vinyl plank flooring before or after cabinets is a matter of personal preference, project specifics, and practicality. There are advantages and disadvantages to each approach, and each home renovation will call for a different solution.
Here’s what you should know, regardless of which approach you choose: it’s important to plan your flooring and cabinetry installation in a way that mitigates the risks of creating unnecessary waste, damaging your flooring, or creating gaps between your floors and cabinets.
Installing Vinyl Plank Flooring First
Installing your vinyl plank flooring first allows you to have a flat, even surface on which you can install the cabinets. This can make the installation process easier and smoother. When flooring is installed first, there is less of a chance that moisture will get trapped underneath the flooring and create issues like mold, mildew, or damage.
It’s important to consider all aspects of your project. For instance, it’s possible that a professional may have to remove a kitchen sink during installation to lay a smooth, even floor. The flooring can also be cut to accommodate the kitchen sink and other appliances.
Installing Cabinets First
Installing your cabinets first is a better option when you install cabinets with a toe kick. The toe kick is the bottom baseboard of the cabinets, and that baseboard can be easily installed over top of the vinyl plank flooring. Installing the cabinet first ensures the cabinets are securely mounted and won’t move while you install the flooring around them.
Before you install the flooring, it’s essential to remove the doors of the cabinets to ensure that you properly install the flooring. You should also consider that the vinyl plank flooring will need to be cut around the cabinet base.
Image: mromavolley.com
Factors to Consider When Making Your Decision
There are a range of factors you should consider when deciding whether you should install the vinyl plank flooring before or after your cabinets. Here are a few important factors to take into account:
The Type of Cabinets You Are Installing
The type of cabinets you are installing can affect your decision. For instance, if you’re installing cabinets with a toe kick, you can install the flooring first. If you are installing cabinets that don’t have toe kicks, installing the cabinets first is often the best option to ensure a smooth finish.
The Type of Vinyl Plank Flooring You Are Using
The type of vinyl plank flooring you are using can affect your decision. If you are using vinyl plank flooring that is click-lock, you may be able to install it after the cabinets. This is because click-lock flooring is designed to be easy to install over a subfloor that isn’t perfectly flat. If you are installing a glue-down vinyl plank flooring, you may need to install it before the cabinets because it will need to be adhered to a perfectly flat surface.
The Overall Design of your Kitchen
The overall design of your kitchen can also factor into your decision. You may want to consider how the flooring will look under the cabinets. If you prefer a seamless look, you’ll likely opt to install the flooring first. On the other hand, you might want to consider how the cabinets will look on top of the flooring.
Your Budget and Time Constraints
If you’re on a tight budget, you can likely save time and money if you install the flooring first. This is because the installation process is simpler and less likely to result in waste. On the other hand, if you don’t have any time constraints, you may prefer to install the cabinets first.
Tips and Expert Advice for Seamless Kitchen Flooring and Cabinet Installation
Here are some tips to ensure a smooth flooring and cabinet installation process.
Consult a Professional
When undertaking a large-scale project like kitchen renovation, a professional contractor is a great investment! They can identify potential problems and advise you on the best way to proceed, ensuring an outcome you will enjoy for years to come.
Consider the Subfloor
Before you install the vinyl plank flooring, consider the condition of the subfloor. The subfloor must be flat and level, regardless of whether you want to install the flooring before or after your cabinets. A professional contractor can assist with subfloor leveling.
Measure Before You Cut
If you are installing the vinyl plank flooring after the cabinets, it’s important to measure twice and cut once. This is because the flooring will need to be cut to fit around the cabinets.
Use a T-molding
A T-molding is a type of trim that is used to finish the transition area between the flooring and the cabinets. If you’re looking to have consistent flooring throughout your kitchen, this is a good option.
Plan Your Installation Order
Depending on the type of cabinets and flooring you select, your order of operations will vary. For instance, if you choose a vinyl plank flooring that is designed to be glued down, you will want to install that flooring first. You may also want to install the cabinets first if you have cabinets with a toe kick and are installing flooring that will be installed with adhesive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about installing vinyl plank flooring before or after cabinets.
Can I Install Vinyl Plank Flooring After Cabinets?
Yes, you can install vinyl plank flooring after cabinets, especially if you are using click-lock vinyl plank flooring. You must take proper care to ensure that your flooring lines up correctly, especially in areas where you are measuring your flooring to fit around cabinets.
Is It Better to Install Cabinets Before Flooring?
If you are installing cabinets that do not have a toe kick, it may be best to install the cabinets first so that the cabinets are perfectly level.
Can I install vinyl plank flooring over an existing floor?
If your existing floor is in good condition with a relatively low profile, you could install vinyl plank flooring directly over the top. If you have an uneven subfloor or an existing floor you want to replace, you’ll need to remove the existing floor before installing the vinyl plank flooring.
How long can I expect this flooring to last?
Vinyl plank flooring can last for many years. As long as you maintain it properly and don’t install it in a high-moisture area, you can enjoy your flooring for longer than a decade.
Install Vinyl Plank Flooring Before Or After Cabinets
Conclusion
Whether you install your vinyl plank flooring before or after your new cabinets is a matter of personal preference and project requirements. There is no right or wrong answer. The most important thing is that you take the time to plan your project carefully.
Are you planning to install new flooring? We’d love to hear your thoughts on whether you prefer to install flooring before or after cabinets. Let us know your preference in the comments below!
