What goes down first flooring or cabinets?

Why the Installation Order of Your Flooring and Cabinets Matters

When renovating your home, it’s important to pay attention to the installation order of your flooring and cabinets. In most cases, the cabinets will be installed before the floor covering. The surface that you see and walk on is the floor covering, not the subfloor (under the underlayment) or underlayment (between the subfloor and finished layer).

A floor covering’s standard height is 1/2 inch, and most cabinets are designed to be installed at this height. However, some cabinet types must be installed at a different height, so consult with your cabinet manufacturer before making any final decisions.

Why Installation Order Matters

When it comes to ensuring a good fit, installation order is also important. For example, if you’re laying down tile floors, it’s best to do so before installing the cabinets. This way, you can avoid having to make any cuts around the cabinets’ edges. However, in general, it is best to install the cabinets before the flooring if possible. This allows you to have a more stable surface on which to work and prevents any damage to your newly installed floors.

Cabinet Types That Must Be Installed at a Different Height

There are some cabinet types that must be installed at a different height than standard cabinets. These include:

-Wall ovens: Wall ovens must be installed at the correct height to ensure proper door clearance and prevent any potential accidents.

-Dishwashers: Dishwashers should be installed at countertop height for easy loading and unloading.

-Refrigerators: Most refrigerators are designed to be flush with the surrounding cabinetry.
However, some refrigerator models may protrude out from the cabinets slightly. Make sure to measure your refrigerator before making any final decisions about its placement.

-Microwaves: Microwaves can either be built into the cabinetry or mounted on a wall. If you’re planning on mounting your microwave on a wall, make sure that it is installed at the proper height for easy use.

When renovating your home, it’s important to take into consideration the installation order of your flooring and cabinets. In most cases, the cabinets will be installed before the floor covering. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. Make sure to consult with your cabinet manufacturer before making any final decisions about installation heights or order. By taking these small details into account, you can ensure a smooth renovation process and avoid any potential issues down the line.

 

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