Easy Guide to Install Baseboard

Most people think that baseboard is hard to install, but with these tips and tricks you will do it yourself easier than a professional.

First thing one should do is to examine the job and decide what size and type of material is the best to use. I would recommend "MDF or particleboard " because caulking can be used for the cracks and it is easier to paint. Because of caulking, "MDF" should be measured using a 1/8" scale tape measure. After making sure that the baseboard is the right size, the best thing to do is start measuring the wall from right to left. The important thing to do is measure the wall about 3" above the ground. This will make your pieces fix better after they are cut. When measuring the wall make sure to make two marks next to the baseboard size to indicate what angles to cut each end at. Baseboards are often cut at 45 and 22.5 degrees angles. One should measure from right to left because when the material is set up at the saw, the order that you had written the measurements down is the same order you make your cuts.

Setting up the saw is just as important as measuring the wall. The way to set up the saw is to set up the material just like if you were installing it. This will put the detail at the top of the saw. Also, make sure that the baseboard is on the left side of the saw. This will keep you cutting the baseboard from right to left. This right to left method is great because whatever the last angle is on the left side of the baseboard it will be the same angle for the right side of the next measured piece of baseboard. This help will make it easier to cut the correct angle.

One should make sure they read the measurement clearly when cutting at the saw. The inside 45 degree angle cuts where they are connect to outside angle cuts, make the long inside 45 degree angle piece 1/8" long. Then nail the outside pieces in first. Afterwards bow the long piece to give it a perfect tight fit. It is easier to start with nailing the outside corners first before starting all the inside wall.

With all these tips, you will be able to install baseboard yourself easier than a professional. A nice baseboard job will change your whole outlook on relaxing in your home after a hard day of work.