When Should I Have My Cabinets Painted During My Kitchen Remodel: Expert Tips on Cabinet Refinishing and Floor Installation from Red Tulip Designs in the Oklahoma City Metro Area
- Red Tulip Designs
- May 20, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 20, 2024
When Should I Have My Cabinets Painted During My Kitchen Remodel: Expert Tips on Cabinet Refinishing and Floor Installation from Red Tulip Designs in the Oklahoma City Metro Area
A kitchen remodel is a significant undertaking, involving multiple steps and careful planning. For homeowners in the Oklahoma City metro area looking to refresh their kitchens without a full-scale remodel, refinishing cabinets is a popular choice. However, a common question arises: "Should I have my cabinets refinished first or should I install my floors first?" Understanding the optimal order of these tasks can save time, money, and hassle, ensuring a smooth and successful renovation.
Cabinet Finishing: When to Schedule It
Flooring First
In most cases, it’s recommended to install flooring before refinishing your cabinets. Here’s why:
Avoid Damage: Flooring installation, especially when removing old tile, can potentially damage your cabinets and their finish.
Quarter Round Installation: If you’re adding new flooring, particularly luxury vinyl planks or tiles, installers typically add quarter round molding at the base of cabinets. You’ll want this molding to match your newly finished cabinets.
Rest assured, professionals take steps to protect your floors during the cabinet refinishing process. They use low-tack tape and rubberized moisture barriers to safeguard your investment.
Considerations for Countertops
Existing Countertops
If you’re replacing your countertops, the timing of this installation depends on the materials involved:
Formica, Laminate, or Tile: These materials often overhang the cabinet edges. It’s best to remove them before refinishing your cabinets to avoid leaving unfinished strips. Additionally, removing tile countertops can be messy and potentially damaging to your cabinet finish.
Farmhouse Sinks: Installing a farmhouse sink involves cutting into cabinets, which can damage the finish. Ensure this installation is completed before scheduling cabinet refinishing.
Stone Countertops
Upgrading from one stone countertop to another can be more flexible:
Minimal Risk: Stone countertops typically don’t have overhangs that cover cabinet edges, reducing the risk of damage.
Coordination: If damage occurs during countertop installation, professional refinishers can coordinate with installers for necessary repairs. Avoid getting silicone caulk on cabinets, as it resists paint and requires thorough removal.
Backsplash Considerations
If you’re removing and replacing your backsplash, timing matters:
Old Backsplash Removal: Remove the old backsplash before refinishing your cabinets to avoid gaps caused by different thicknesses.
New Backsplash Installation: This can be done before or after cabinet refinishing, but ensure the finish is fully cured to prevent damage.
Wall Painting Tips
Deciding when to paint your walls in relation to cabinet refinishing involves a few key considerations:
Before Refinishing: If you paint walls first, allow at least 30 days for the paint to cure. Keep extra paint on hand for touch-ups if needed.
After Refinishing: Wait 7 to 14 days after refinishing your cabinets to allow the finish to cure fully before painting the walls.
Conclusion
Coordinating the various aspects of a kitchen remodel can be challenging, but proper planning can make the process smoother. For homeowners in the Oklahoma City metro area, it’s generally best to install new flooring before refinishing cabinets to avoid potential damage. Removing and replacing countertops and backsplashes requires careful timing, and wall painting should be planned around the cabinet refinishing schedule.
By working with experienced professionals and following these guidelines, you can achieve a beautifully remodeled kitchen that enhances your home’s functionality and aesthetics. If you have any questions or need further assistance with your kitchen remodel, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Red Tulip Designs and we can guide you through the process.
Comments