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Whether or not you put flooring under kitchen cabinets depends on the type of flooring you’re installing. Tile and hardwood flooring can throw off the height measurement for cabinets, so the best practice is to install it first then add the cabinets on top. Laminate flooring, or any floating floor, should not be installed underneath cabinets because it expands and contracts, making the cabinets unstable.

There are a few different types of finishes to choose from for the final step of the project. 

Water-based polyurethane sealants emit fewer odors and fumes but dry quickly, which can pose a challenge when trying to get a smooth coat. Oil-based polyurethane sealants let out more odors and fumes into the air (it’s especially important to wear a respirator if you choose this type), but they take longer to dry, which can be more forgiving during the finishing step. 

Some may prefer wood oil to polyurethane because rather than creating a layer, it becomes part of the wood. Wood oil takes longer to dry, and is less resistant to wear and tear; however, it creates a natural-looking result by enhancing the grain of the wood. 

Vinyl floors last between 10 and 25 years on average when you care for them and protect them against water damage, though higher-quality vinyl can last longer.

If your vinyl flooring has heavy wear and tear or if it's peeling, it's a good time to do a reinstallation. Other signs your flooring is nearing the end of its lifespan include bubbling, heat-damaged planks or tiles, and discoloration.

Cork floors last up to 40 years with proper maintenance, which includes sealing the floors every two or three years and cleaning up any spills as soon as possible. If you have pets, your cork floors may not last as long. While cork can last decades, warranties on cork flooring offer limited coverage for 5 to 25 years.