When remodeling a kitchen, it is generally recommended to paint the walls before the cabinets are installed. Painting before cabinet installation offers several advantages:
Ease of Access: It's easier to paint the walls when there are no cabinets in the way. Without cabinets obstructing the walls, you can cover the entire surface evenly and without any interruptions.
Better Finish: Painting the walls before the cabinets are installed allows for a smoother and more consistent finish. You can achieve clean paint lines along the edges where the cabinets meet the walls, providing a more professional look.
Time Efficiency: Painting before cabinet installation can save time. You can complete the painting process without having to work around or mask off the cabinets.
Protection for Cabinets: By painting before installation, you protect the cabinets from potential paint splatters or accidental damage during the painting process.
Flexibility in Cabinet Placement: Painting first allows you to explore various kitchen cabinet layouts without being restricted by the existing paint color. You can easily adjust the cabinet placement without worrying about the paint design.
However, if you're doing a full kitchen remodel and replacing the cabinets entirely, you might not have the old cabinets in the way. In such cases, you can paint the walls before installing the new cabinets. This is especially useful when you want to completely change the kitchen's color scheme.
In summary, while there might be situations where painting around existing cabinets is necessary, it is generally best to paint the walls before the cabinets are installed during a kitchen remodeling project for a cleaner and more efficient outcome.