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Transitions PhaseStep 31 of 32
Reinstall Baseboards
Put baseboards back in place to cover the expansion gap and complete the finished look.
Quick Summary
Use your labels to match baseboards to their original locations. Leave a small gap above the floor for expansion, and nail into wall studs for secure attachment.
Before You Start
- Gather all labeled baseboards from storage
- Reference your diagram showing piece locations
- Inspect baseboards for damage and repair if needed
- Have touch-up paint ready for nail holes
Tools and Materials
- Finish nailer (18-gauge) or hammer and finish nails
- Stud finder
- Nail set
- Wood filler or caulk
- Paint and small brush for touch-ups
Installation Steps
Step 1: Find the Studs
- Use stud finder to locate wall studs
- Mark stud locations with light pencil marks
- Studs are typically 16 inches apart
Step 2: Position the Baseboard
- Hold baseboard in place against wall
- Rest on flooring but do not press down tightly
- Use a nickel or thin cardboard as a spacer
- This gap allows floor to expand without buckling
Step 3: Nail in Place
- Nail through baseboard into wall studs
- Use two nails per stud - one high, one low
- Angle nails slightly for better grip
- Set nails below surface with nail set
Important
Never nail baseboards to the floor. This prevents floor expansion and can cause buckling, gaps, or squeaks. Always nail only into the wall.
Handling Corners
Inside Corners
- Return pieces to their original corner positions
- Coped cuts should fit snugly against adjacent piece
- If gap exists, use caulk to fill after installation
Outside Corners
- Match mitered pieces as labeled
- Apply wood glue to miter joint
- Pin nail through corner to hold tight
Finishing Touches
- Fill nail holes with wood filler
- Let filler dry and sand smooth
- Touch up with matching paint
- Caulk the top edge where baseboard meets wall
- Use paintable caulk for a seamless finish
Pro Tip
If your new flooring is significantly thicker than the old, the baseboard may now sit too high, leaving a gap at the floor. Add quarter round or shoe molding to cover this gap.
New Baseboards
If installing new baseboards instead of reusing old ones:
- Measure each wall section individually
- Cut inside corners with coped joints
- Cut outside corners at 45 degrees
- Prime and paint before or after installation