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A person in a checkered shirt and jeans is installing light-colored laminate flooring in a bright room. The focus is on their hands as they fit two planks together, showing the precision and care taken in laying the flooring smoothly

Is It Better To Install Flooring Before Cabinets?

Timing Matters: Flooring Before Cabinets Or Vice Versa?

If you’re planning a remodel for your kitchen or bathroom, you’ve likely wondered — should flooring go in before cabinets, or is it the other way around? The answer depends on the type of flooring you choose, but in most cases, installing flooring first is the best approach.

Our team is here to explore why this sequence is generally recommended. Read ahead to learn how Longacre Company can assist you in achieving the best results for your home remodeling project.

Advantages Of Installing Flooring Before Cabinets

Installing flooring before cabinets offers several key advantages. Ultimately, it can streamline your remodeling process while enhancing the look and functionality of your space. A few benefits you can expect are:

  • Ease of installation — Installing flooring before cabinets simplifies the installation process, reducing the risk of damage to new cabinets during floor installation.
  • Flexibility in design — This approach offers greater design flexibility, allowing you to make changes to your cabinet layout in the future without constraints from existing flooring.
  • Long-term durability — Flooring that extends underneath cabinets provides additional support and stability. This layout contributes to the durability and longevity of your remodeling project.

By prioritizing flooring installation before cabinets, you can achieve a functional design that elevates the aesthetic appeal and long-term durability of your home.

What Floor Types Should Be Installed First?

Not all flooring materials behave the same when paired with cabinets. The right installation order depends on the type of flooring you choose. Below are some floor options that are best installed before cabinetry.

Tile

Tile is a durable flooring option, especially for kitchens and bathrooms. Since it’s installed with mortar and grout, it’s best to lay tile before installing cabinets to ensure a uniform height and a seamless, finished look.

Hardwood

Hardwood is a timeless and elegant flooring option. Installing it before cabinets allows for natural expansion and contraction while preventing tricky height adjustments later. However, hardwood requires proper sealing in moisture-prone areas.

Remodeling Exception: Floating Floors Like Laminate

While flooring usually comes first, floating floors are an exception. But what exactly is a floating floor? Unlike traditional flooring — where planks or tiles are nailed, glued or cemented down — floating floors are designed to “float” above the subfloor. Each plank or tile interlocks without being permanently attached, allowing the entire floor to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity.

This is common with laminate, luxary vinyl plank (LVP) and some engineered wood floors. If these floors are installed before the cabinets, they can shift or buckle over time under the heavy weight of the cabinetry. That’s why, for floating floors, it’s best to install cabinets first and then fit the flooring around them.

How Longacre Company Can Help

At The Longacre Company, we understand the importance of proper planning and execution in home remodeling projects. Our team of experienced professionals can guide you through the process of choosing the best flooring and cabinet installation sequence. We’ll assist you in achieving the best results for your home.

With our commitment to excellence, customer-first approach and century-long legacy in serving the Montgomery County community, you can trust Longacre to deliver quality craftsmanship and exceptional service from start to finish.

Take The Next Step With Longacre

Installing flooring before cabinets is generally recommended for most projects, offering advantages like easier installation, design flexibility and long-term durability. However, if you’re opting for laminate floating floors, our experts can help guide you through the remodeling process.

Whether you’re looking for makeover kitchen ideas or are planning a complete remodel, Longacre Company is here to assist you every step of the way.

Are you ready to transform your space with new flooring or cabinets? Experience the Longacre difference, where service meets legacy in the heart of Montgomery County, PA. Reach out today to get started!