Can I install my kitchen flooring before the cabinets and countertops?

Yes, depending on the flooring material. For floating floors like luxury vinyl plank, cabinets must be installed first so they do not pin the floor down. For glue down or nail down hardwood, or tile, the kitchen flooring often goes in before the cabinets.

How long should I wait after countertops to install the backsplash?

You can usually begin the backsplash installation the very next day. Just ensure the silicone used to seam the countertops has fully cured.

Do I need to remove my old backsplash to install new countertops?

Yes. Trying to save an old backsplash when replacing countertops rarely works. The old tile will likely get damaged during the demo of the old counters, and the new counters will not be the exact same thickness, leaving a visible gap or requiring awkward patching.

Should the backsplash go behind the stove?

Yes, the backsplash should continue down behind the slide in range or cooktop to provide a continuous, easy to clean surface and protect the drywall from grease and heat.

What kind of caulk should be used between the countertop and backsplash?

Always use a 100% silicone sealant that is color matched to your grout. Do not use standard grout in this corner, as it will inevitably crack as the house settles.

Countertop First or Backsplash First? Sequence Guide

Planning a kitchen remodel in Austin? Learn why countertops should be installed before the backsplash for fit, finish, and waterproofing.

The Short Answer: Countertops First: You should generally install your countertops before your backsplash. It is the golden rule of kitchen sequencing. Your countertop serves as the foundation for the backsplash tile to rest on. Rever Why Countertops Often Come First: There are several practical, mechanical reasons why the countertop should go in before the first piece of tile is set on the wall. Countertop fabricators need perfectly accurate measuremen What Can Happen If You Install Backsplash First?: If you try to sequence the tile up before the counters, you may encounter trouble. First, the countertop installers will have to try and slide the heavy stone under the existing tile, which can dam

Contact: (512) 769-2292 | dan@austinflooringco.com

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