What’s the Perfect Order for a Kitchen Remodel?
Kitchen remodels are exciting—until the timeline keeps you up at night.
When do the counters go in? Paint before floors? As someone who’s managed (and rescued) hundreds of remodels, I’m here to break down the right order—so you get it right the first time.
Spoiler: Painting cabinets at the wrong stage can lead to scratches, mismatched finishes, and even marital tension (ask me how I know). Let’s break down the process, step by step:
Step 1: Demo Countertops & Backsplash (Yes, Start Here!)
Why This Comes First
Imagine installing gorgeous new cabinets… only to realize you need to rip them out for countertop measurements. What a nightmare.
What to do:
Remove old countertops, sinks, and backsplash.
Pro Tip: Hire a pro for demo—DIY can damage plumbing or walls.
Story Time: A client once tried salvaging their tile backsplash. It shattered, delaying their project by weeks.
Step 2: Install New Countertops & Sink
The Heart of Your Kitchen
New countertops set the stage for everything else.
Must-haves before install:
Have your sink and faucet onsite. Need inspiration? Check Houzz’s trending sinks.
Confirm countertop measurements twice. One client’s overhang was 1” too short—costly fix!
Step 3: Flooring Installation (Timing is Everything)
Hardwood vs. LVT: Know the Difference
LVT/LVP: Install early—it’s durable. Cover with Ram Board during construction.
Hardwood: Wait until after cabinet painting. Sawdust + wet paint = disaster.
Why I learned this the hard way: A client installed hardwood first. Our ladder left dents—they paid $3k to refinish.
Step 4: Backsplash Installation
Protect Those Cabinets!
Backsplash contractors aren’t always gentle. Here’s how to avoid this:
Install backsplash before painting cabinets.
Exception: If backsplash comes last, use painter’s tape on cabinets (not foolproof!)
Step 5: Drywall Repair & Wall Painting
Paint Walls Before Cabinets (Here’s Why)
Cabinet paint takes 2–3 weeks to fully cure. Taping fresh cabinets for wall painting? Recipe for peeling.
Pro Move: Use satin or semi-gloss paint for walls—easier to wipe off cabinet dust.
Step 6: Finish Floors (If You Waited)
The Cherry on Top
Sand and finish hardwood floors last. Dust won’t settle on cured cabinets, and you’ll avoid refinishing costs.
Ready to Nail Your Kitchen Remodel?
Follow this timeline, and you’ll avoid 90% of rookie mistakes. For more tips:
And remember: My wife still laughs about the time I painted cabinets before drywall repair. Don’t be me.
For more tips on home improvement, check out our website & youtube video [Walls By Design Touch Up Intro]