The ideal and recommended sequence is to install the kitchen floor before installing the cabinets. Here are the reasons why:
Easier Installation: Installing the floor first provides an even and continuous surface, making it easier for the flooring material (such as tiles, hardwood, or laminate) to be laid down without any obstructions or cuts around the cabinet bases. This results in a cleaner and more professional-looking finish.
Seamless Appearance: With the floor installed first, the cabinets can be placed directly on top of it. This creates a seamless appearance, with no visible gaps between the cabinets and the floor, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the kitchen.
Proper Cabinet Leveling: If the floor is installed after the cabinets, it can sometimes affect the alignment and leveling of the cabinets. Uneven flooring could lead to gaps between the cabinet bases and the floor or cause issues with the cabinet doors and drawers not closing properly.
Avoid Potential Damage: When cabinets are installed before the floor, the flooring material may need to be cut or trimmed to fit around the cabinets' edges. This process can be challenging and may result in accidental damage to the cabinets during the floor installation.
Easier Plumbing and Electrical Work: If any plumbing or electrical work needs to be done under the cabinets, it's much more accessible when the floor is not in the way.
Cost Savings: Installing the floor first can save you money on flooring materials since you won't need to purchase extra flooring to fill gaps left by cabinet installations.
While installing the floor before the cabinets is the preferred method, there may be certain situations where it's not possible or practical, such as when the floor is already in place and you're only replacing the cabinets. In such cases, it's crucial to work with experienced professionals who can ensure a proper and professional installation, regardless of the sequence. If you're uncertain about the process, consider consulting with a qualified contractor or kitchen designer to help plan the best approach for your specific kitchen remodeling project.