Should baseboards be replaced before or after flooring?
But baseboards have to be figured into a flooring project whether they’re being replaced along with the flooring or not. Baseboards are usually installed before flooring with a reservation gap left at the bottom of the baseboards for the flooring to be slid underneath.
How much does it cost to replace baseboards?
If you need your existing baseboards removed, expect to add another $50 to $100 per hour in labor costs. For a home with a 144-foot perimeter, the average cost to replace baseboards is $1,280.
Will removing baseboards damage the walls?
So back to the baseboards. I was a bit gun-shy about removing the baseboards because I was afraid of damaging the walls. When SERVPRO came to clean up the mess of our flooded house, there were a few dents in the walls where they had only removed baseboards (rather than all of the drywall). I was determined to not do that!
Is it hard to install Baseboard trim?
While the installation of the baseboard trim itself isn’t hard, the cutting and measuring of the angles can be a bit tricky. The process is similar to installing crown moulding. A homeowner can easily learn how to install baseboards with this easy-to-follow project guide.
Is replacing baseboards difficult?
Adding or replacing baseboards is a simple enough DIY task, so long as you have a miter saw at your disposal. While the installation process for baseboards isn't difficult, the most challenging part is measuring and cutting the trim at the correct angles.
How much does it cost to have baseboards replaced?
When you consider materials and labor, it typically costs $5.70 to $8.95 per linear foot to install baseboards. If you need your existing baseboards removed, expect to add another $50 to $100 per hour in labor costs. For a home with a 144-foot perimeter, the average cost to replace baseboards is $1,280.
Is it worth it to replace baseboards?
Designed to hide the seam where wall meets floor, baseboards give any room a finished look. If your trim is showing wear and tear, painting is always an option, but the prep work is important and can be time-intensive. Replacement is your best option if they're water-damaged, stained or warped.
How long does it take to replace baseboards?
How long does it take to trim a house? Finish carpenters can install trim at the rate of about 20 linear feet per hour. A typical project requiring 125 linear feet of trim would take about 6.25 hours to install.
Are baseboards easy to install?
While the installation of the baseboard trim itself isn't hard, the cutting and measuring of the angles can be a bit tricky. The process is similar to installing crown moulding. A homeowner can easily learn how to install baseboards with this easy-to-follow project guide.
Can you put new baseboards over old ones?
0:121:29How To Inexpensively Upgrade Baseboards - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou don't have to rip out all the baseboard you already have all you need is some quarter-inch woodMoreYou don't have to rip out all the baseboard you already have all you need is some quarter-inch wood trim paint nails.
How often should baseboards be replaced?
Baseboards in high-traffic areas would benefit from annual repainting to maintain a crisp appearance, while other areas, like guest rooms and offices, can look good even 5 years later.
Do flooring companies replace baseboards?
Many flooring companies install baseboards as well as flooring. Since flooring companies often have the same tools necessary for removing baseboards safely without damaging them as they do for putting down the flooring itself, they are usually a better bet for removing and replacing baseboards than the homeowners.
What kind of baseboards are in style?
See which baseboard options go best with these six popular design trends:Bohemian Baseboards are Ornate and Curved. ... Keep it Simple for the Modern Farmhouse. ... New Traditional Style Homes Call for Bold Baseboard Moulding Styles. ... Curved Baseboards for Shabby Chic Rooms.More items...•
What is the labor cost to install baseboard?
Labor Cost to Install Baseboard Trim The labor cost to install baseboards is $4.90 to $7.75 per linear foot. Baseboard materials are pretty inexpensive (only about $0.80 to $1.20 per linear foot). Labor makes up most of your price.
How do you remove old baseboards?
0:542:23How to Remove Baseboards | House One | This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipStep three using a hammer tap the blade of a thin putty knife behind the molding. Starting with anyMoreStep three using a hammer tap the blade of a thin putty knife behind the molding. Starting with any quarter round trim installed in front of the baseboards. To start working it loose.
How do you remove and install new baseboards?
1:193:58How to Replace Baseboards - DIY Network - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd the baseboard. Then gently pry the board away from the wall a bit. Once the baseboard is looseMoreAnd the baseboard. Then gently pry the board away from the wall a bit. Once the baseboard is loose use your pry bar to finish the job.
What is the best alternative to wooden baseboard?
Porcelain tile is a great alternative to a traditional wooden baseboard that most homeowners have. If you have tile flooring, you could tie the whole room together with porcelain tile baseboards. Whether you consider this before you put in your flooring or it’s an afterthought, you can find a porcelain tile baseboard to match.
What is the best baseboard alternative?
With that said, what can you use as a visually appealing and convincing baseboard alternative? A Reglet trim is one of the best baseboard alternatives because of its unique look and added depth. Vinyl and rubber wall base moldings are also a great choice because of how durable they are.
What is the best trim to use for baseboards?
One of the most popular alternatives to a baseboard is a Reglet trim , and it adds depth to any room. With that said, it’s best to choose Reglet trim when you’re still in the construction or renovation process. That is because it is best to install Reglet trim before you install the drywall.
What is reclaimed wood molding?
You can find reclaimed wood molding that is weathered, distressed, or pristine and glossy. That means that you aren’t limited to one aesthetic or vibe in the room or throughout the house.
How much does a 120 sq ft vinyl base cost?
Vinyl is an inexpensive material, and 120 sq. ft. of vinyl wall base runs you $130 or less. There are vinyl wall bases that mimic wood or similar materials very well, and it’s hard to tell the difference. Choose a vinyl wall base if you want the most bang for your buck on your baseboard alternative.
Is porcelain tile good for baseboards?
Porcelain tile is not the most economic baseboard alternative, but it certainly looks great and that’s worth it to many homeowners. You shouldn’t have trouble finding porcelain tile that compliments your flooring and walls, and you could always have it stained if so.
Is rubber baseboard durable?
You still get the added dimensional value of a regular baseboard, but a rubber base molding is more durable. Rubber base molding is tough, and you won’t have to worry about damaging it by knocking it with furniture. The best thing about rubber base molding is that there are countless options for any given visual taste.
Safety Tips for Installing Baseboard
Although installing baseboard is a straightforward DIY project, there are a few safety precautions to keep in mind. If you are using power tools such as a compound power miter saw or a finishing nailer, be sure to wear eye protection and ear plugs. Make sure your working surface is clear of debris when operating power tools.
Tools and Supplies to Install Baseboards
Before you head to your local Home Depot to buy your baseboard and supplies, save time and money by accurately measuring first.
Preparing to Install Baseboards
Bring the boards into the room where you'll be installing them a few days before you start. This will help them acclimate to their new environment.
Scribing
For floors that are not level, you will need to scribe the bottom of the baseboard for an accurate fit. Scribing is a method to transfer odd shapes and wavy walls or floors to your work piece.
Outside Corner Cuts
Fit one end of the baseboard against the inside corner of the wall or door casing.
Coping an Inside Corner Joint
When two walls meet in an inside corner, one baseboard should be coped to fit into the other baseboard for a seamless look. You can, however, use a miter cut to join an inside corner. This option will result in a less seamless look and will need additional finishing in the end.
Scarf and Butt Joints
Where two boards meet on a long wall or straight run, you will need to make a scarf joint.
How high should baseboards be installed without flooring?
The standard height that most baseboards are installed without flooring is 3/8ths of an inch. This leaves plenty of room for the carpet to be shoved up underneath the edge of the baseboards during installation. Some carpet installers may ask for a 1/4th inch gap for baseboards.
Why is baseboard important?
Putting in baseboards and other forms of trim are crucial for setting new flooring off. Without properly placed, cleaned, and painted baseboards, new flooring can make old walls look worse.
What is the gap between baseboards?
The gap left under baseboards for flooring is dependent on the width of the flooring being installed. Baseboards are an important part of flooring installation, and without them, any flooring installed will look cheap and unfinished. Read on to learn more about how to install baseboards to be flush with new flooring.
What is baseboard flooring?
Baseboards are an important part of finishing flooring that many home renovators may not consider when they’re trying to plan a project. But baseboards have to be figured into a flooring project whether they’re being replaced along with the flooring or not. Baseboards are usually installed before flooring with a reservation gap left at ...
Why do you tack down the floor?
Tacking the flooring down under the baseboards helps prevent the carpet from being pulled up. It also prevents any moisture from getting between the carpet and the subflooring. This installation process is crucial for the prevention of damaging mold and mildew in the home.
Why does paint peel off baseboards?
Dirt and grime on baseboards can cause the paint to peel up if it gets painted over. When you’re removing baseboards before you put in new flooring, attention to detail can mean the difference between reusing baseboards and being forced to get new ones.
Can you cover baseboards with painter's tape?
Covering baseboards with painter’s tape after cleaning them can keep them from getting paint from the walls on them, and there are usually ways to adjust the flooring (or your choice of flooring) so that it stays flush with the bottom of the baseboards. Following this process guarantees there is no gap left.
