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Installing cabinet toe kicks after installing flooring is common, as this produces a sleek, streamlined appearance along the cabinetry bases. The toe kick is a cabinetry term for the covered, recessed areas at the cabinet’s base that let you stand closer to the counter more comfortably by making room for your toes.

There’s no strict rule about which way cabinet doors should open, but generally, double cabinet doors should open away from each other. With single doors, you want to avoid having them block your path or swing into  areas where people need to stand. Some kitchens are angled so that cabinet doors may crash into something no matter which way they swing, but the methods above can help prevent damage.

Whether you install flooring before or after kitchen cabinets depends primarily on the type of flooring you are using. For materials like hardwood, tile, and sheet flooring, the best practice is to install the flooring first. This ensures the cabinets are installed at the correct height and on a stable surface. However, you should not install cabinets on top of floating floors, such as laminate or luxury vinyl plank (LVP). These types of flooring need room to expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes. Placing heavy cabinets on top can restrict this movement, potentially causing the floor to buckle and making the cabinets unstable. For floating floors, install the cabinets first and then lay the flooring up to them. Other reasons to consider installing cabinets before the flooring include saving money on materials (since you won't need flooring under the cabinets) and avoiding potential damage to your new floor during cabinet installation. Additionally, installing cabinets directly on the subfloor might prevent voiding your flooring's warranty.

Yes, as long as the doors match the dimensions of your old cabinets and use compatible hinges. This method works best if you are using similar materials and door styles that match your existing cupboards. If you’re choosing significantly different materials, like moving from fiberboard to hardwood, then it’s usually best to replace the entire cabinet.