One of the simplest ways to update your home’s appearance is to install a baseboard. Use the following guide to put one in place.
Required Tools and Materials
Hammer
Drill
Finish nails
Wood Putty
Tape measure
Miter saw
Pencil
Determine the baseboard trim required. Get a measuring tape and gauge all the walls. Add the lengths to get the entire figure.
Step 2
Buy 10% more than the figure you obtained. This is for any possible errors you may make. Next, choose a style and shape. Note: the finish has to be set before you conduct any fitting and cutting.
Step 3
Cut the baseboards a bit longer than what the wall needs. Set the cut pieces in the room or area.
Step 4
Set the baseboard flush against the wall. Mark the cut with a pencil. You can also utilize a measuring tape.
Step 5
To install a baseboard, slice the miter joint with the saw. You can also use a miter box (45 degrees). Nail the baseboard on the wall with the nails. Drill pilot holes. This will prevent the wood from splitting.
Step 6
Use a nail set to indent the nails’ ends in the baseboard. Paint or stain the baseboard. Allow it to dry.
Corner Blocking
If you don’t want to pre-drill holes, use corner blocking instead. These are trim wood pieces set in the angle of the corners (inside and outside). Many like to use corner blocks because it gives a polished look to the structure. This also turns the corner cuts to butt joints.
Removing Old Baseboards
Check if the problem lies below the board. If you are taking off old baseboards, examine the area for signs of rot or mold. Look also for any damage behind the board. Try prying away a section of the board. This will give you a chance to see the backing.
Note: a lot of times, you will need to get rid of these old baseboards before you can install a new one. Do not attempt to remove them unless you know what you are doing. If there are problems (i.e., mold), try to fix them first. Do not attempt this if you are not sure of the process.
Before you install a baseboard, get pieces that need as little splicing as possible. This will be necessary in some instances however. If the walls are 14 to 16 ft, these will have to be spliced. Another problem with longer pieces is they tend to warp.
