Kitchen cabinets typically sit directly on the subfloor rather than on the finished flooring for several practical reasons. The primary reason is structural stability. The subfloor provides a strong and level base for cabinets, ensuring they remain stable under the weight of countertops, appliances, and stored items. Placing cabinets on the finished flooring can cause unevenness, especially if the flooring materials have variations in thickness or are prone to shifting over time.

Additionally, installing cabinets on the subfloor allows for easier replacement or updates to the flooring. If the cabinets were installed on the finished floor, removing or replacing the flooring would require removing the cabinets as well, increasing labor and costs. This setup also prevents damage to the finished flooring when cabinets are being installed, as heavy cabinets could scratch or dent softer flooring materials.

From a design perspective, installing cabinets on the subfloor allows for better customization. For example, toe-kicks, baseboards, or built-in features like under-cabinet lighting can be added without being restricted by the height of the flooring. This approach also makes it easier to align cabinets with appliances like dishwashers or refrigerators, which often sit directly on the finished flooring. Learn more about: https://calahanbath.com/do-kitchen-cabinets-sit-on-subfloor/.