Tips for Replacing Baseboards in Your Home

If you’ve done any home renovations in the past, you’re well aware of how much small details can completely change a space. And that is especially the case when it comes to baseboards. While baseboards are a smaller detail in a home in comparison to larger remodeling tasks like installing new flooring, painting an entire room, or redoing a kitchen backsplash, they really do change the overall feel of a home.

Baseboards almost act like a “glue” that pull the consistency of a home’s design together. Having consistent (and well-done) baseboards is a great way to transform your space. If you’re planning to replace your baseboards in the near future, here are a few tips:

Get the Right Tools

I know replacing baseboards seems like an incredibly simple project, but the truth is, it requires a lot of precision. Without the right tools, you’ll be fighting an uphill battle.

Getting correct measurements, making your corner cut angles correct, and installing the baseboards against the wall all require a special set of tools. Nail guns are your best friend, and it’s probably a good idea to have really accurate measuring tools around. A good angle gauge wouldn’t hurt either!

One of the most important things to use is a compound miter saw. They’re quite accurate, easy to move around, and have fast spinning blades. As long as you have a good saw blade on, compound miter saws should give you accurate, clean cuts that make jointing a breeze.

Another tip is to search for a portable air compressor and buy air compressor tools. In the long-run, you’ll probably save money on your tools and you don’t have to deal with the frustration of batteries.

Have a Clear Plan and Vision

Of course you probably have a general idea in your head of what you want. “I want simplistic, white baseboards.” That’s great! But you want to make sure you come up with a specific plan. Exactly what size of wood do you want? Do you want any type of styling done with a router table on the wood? If you have anything beyond flat white baseboards, do you have a plan for how to best deal with angles to ensure it works seamlessly throughout the house?

It’s also really smart to calculate exactly how much wood you need, and then buy a little bit extra. Chances are high you’ll have a few “whoopsie” moments when making your first cuts. No matter how accurate you think you are, always plan for a few mistakes.

Paint Your Trim Before Installing

You’ve seen all the telltale signs of a bad paint job in your life – paint dripping from the wall onto a countertop, baseboard paint making its way onto the wall. It’s hard to get accurate paint lines, even with proper taping techniques. Sometimes paint just gets where it’s not supposed to.

If you’re able to, the best thing you can do to ensure the paint is clean, not on the wall, and looks professional is to paint your baseboards before you install them. This gives you a chance to really be precise and make sure everything looks great before it goes up!

Recognized as one of the leading custom home builders in Dallas TX, Tony McClung is an architectural designer working to beautify custom luxury homes in Highland Park, and North Dallas area. He helps families design, build or renovate the custom home of their dreams. Visit their website to learn more.