Isla Bennett
Installing floor trim is a simple way to add character to a room, but it can be tricky. Before starting, it's important to gather your tools and materials, take accurate measurements, and plan carefully. You can use a nail gun or nail set for installation, but if you're using a hammer, be sure to drill pilot holes first to avoid damaging the trim. Filling nail holes and gaps with wood filler or putty and caulking along the top edge will give your trim a seamless, professional finish.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tools | Nail gun, hammer, nail set, pry bar, pliers, nail puller, utility knife, sandpaper, vacuum or broom, glue, caulk or wood putty, tape measure, safety glasses, ear plugs |
| Preparation | Measure the perimeter of the room, rounding up to the nearest whole-foot dimension divisible by two. Measure each wall at least twice. Account for any wall irregularities and outside corners. Remove old baseboards and nails. |
| Installation | Nail through the piece that covers the joint and into the stud. Drill small pilot holes in tight corners. Use a stud sensor to find the studs. Space nails 12-16" apart. |
| Finishing | Fill nail holes and gaps with wood filler or putty. Sand the filled areas. Apply a thin bead of caulk along the top edge of the baseboard and any visible seams. Stain or paint the baseboards. |
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What You'll Learn
Using a nail gun
There are two types of nail guns to consider: Finish Nailer or Brad Nailer. Finish Nailers are primarily for shooting 16-gauge or 15-gauge nails. They use finish nailheads, which are easily identified by being stored at an angle on the nailer. Brad Nailers are also an option, and you can find a cheap one for around $30. You can also get a setup with a little pancake compressor for $40, or under $60 for a pneumatic brad nailer.
If you don't want to buy a nail gun, you can ask around to see if you can borrow one. If you don't want to use a nail gun at all, you can use a hammer and nails, a pneumatic stapler, or a nail spinner.
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Using a nail set
Before you begin nailing, it is important to mark your studs. The distance between nails in your floor trim will depend on the location of the studs. You can use a stud finder to locate them, or simply place painter's tape along each stud above the baseboard. Once you've located the first couple, you'll have an idea of the distance between them, and the process will become faster.
When you're ready to start nailing, use a hammer and finishing nails to secure the trim to the wall at the studs. Insert two finishing nails into each stud at the base of the trim. Using a nail set, hammer the nails in at a steep angle. This will help ensure that the nails are securely embedded in the stud, providing a strong hold for your floor trim.
In tight corners, it is recommended to drill a small pilot hole in the trim where your nail is going. This will help guide the nail and reduce the risk of splitting the wood. Overall, using a nail set is a straightforward and effective method for installing floor trim without the need for a nail gun.
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Removing old trim
First, examine the type of wall paint used in the room. If latex paint was used, it will have created a seal between the trim and the wall. To prevent pulling off the wall colour when removing the trim, use a 6-inch utility knife to carefully score along the length of the seam where the baseboard meets the wall. If there is caulking along the top edge of the baseboard, apply a caulk remover to the seam before scoring.
Next, loosen the pins or finishing nails that hold the baseboard to the wall. Traditionally, this was done by inserting a putty knife between the baseboard and the wall and twisting. However, a more modern and efficient tool for this step is the Trim Puller, which features a 15-degree centre wedge designed for easy and delicate extraction.
Now, you can start to carefully separate the baseboard from the wall. A pry bar or the Trim Puller can be used for this step. Work slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the drywall. Once the baseboard is removed, use pliers or a nail puller to extract any remaining nails from the wall.
By following these steps, you can ensure a clean slate for installing new baseboards and address any wall imperfections. It is important to take accurate measurements and make precise cuts for a professional-looking installation.
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Measuring and cutting
First, ensure you have the right tools for measuring and marking the trim. A tape measure, pencil, and a straight edge or ruler will be needed. It is important to measure accurately, so take your time and consider measuring twice to ensure precision.
Start by measuring the length of each wall section where the floor trim will be installed. Measure from corner to corner, taking into account any irregularities on the wall. For outside corners, add a few extra inches to your measurement to allow for miter cuts. Number each wall section and make a sketch or plan to keep track of your measurements.
When measuring the perimeter of the room, round up to the nearest whole-foot dimension that is divisible by two. It is also a good idea to measure each wall at least twice to ensure accuracy. If you are a beginner, consider adding some extra inches to your total measurement to give yourself some leeway in case of mistakes.
Before cutting, mark the trim clearly, indicating where the cuts will be made. Use a pencil and a straight edge to draw a line across the trim, following your measurements. Make sure the line is straight and clear to avoid any mistakes when cutting.
Now you are ready to cut the trim to size. Use a power miter saw or a hand saw, depending on your preference and the tools available. Cut along the marked lines, ensuring a straight and accurate cut. If you are using a power saw, wear safety gear, including safety glasses and ear protection.
Remember to add extra length to your trim pieces if they need to continue around corners. You can cut and join these pieces later, using nails and wood glue to secure the joints.
By carefully measuring and cutting your floor trim, you will achieve a professional and seamless finish to your installation.
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Filling nail holes
For interior nail holes, you can use a water-based wood filler, which is adequate for most indoor applications. Water-based fillers have a creamy consistency and are easy to smooth on and clean up. When applying water-based filler, use a damp cloth to occasionally wipe drying filler off your finger to ensure consistent application. Avoid pressing excess, partially dried filler into the holes, as it may not adhere to the wood's surface effectively. Deeper or larger holes may require the use of a putty knife to fill a larger area and create a flat finished surface.
If you are using solvent-based fillers, be aware that they are sticky and oily and difficult to clean up if you wait until they dry. The advantage of solvent-based fillers is that they dry rock-hard and are much stronger than water-based fillers. Solvent-based fillers are best for exterior wood, such as door casing, window trim, and siding. Apply solvent-based filler sparingly, as it can be difficult to sand down when applied thickly.
Some people also recommend using a finishing plaster compound to fill nail holes, as it does not shrink or crack. You can also use lightweight Spackle, applying the first fill with your finger, and cleaning off the excess with a damp sponge after 20 minutes. After 15 minutes, put on a second coat to fill any indents, and gently sponge off the excess after another 20 minutes. After an hour, sand it if needed.
If you want to avoid repainting the trim, you can use crayons, fill sticks, or toothpaste to fill the nail holes. Softening the crayon or fill stick with a lighter, then use a tiny 3-hair paintbrush to paint over the filled hole. You can also use white paintable caulk, wiping off any excess with a damp paper towel and cloth.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a nail gun or nail set. If you don't want to buy a nail gun, you can rent one from a hardware store.
Use a utility knife to score the caulk line along the top of the trim, then use a pry bar to carefully separate the trim from the wall. Remove any remaining nails with pliers or a nail puller.
Measure the perimeter of the room, rounding up to the nearest whole-foot dimension divisible by two. Measure each wall at least twice and add additional room for outside corners.
Cutting the angles can be tricky. Use a sliding T bevel to help determine the angles for the corners, or use scrap material for trial-and-error fitting until you find the correct angle cut.
Find one stud, then measure 16" on the centre to hit the rest. Tack the trim in place with one nail on each side, then find the studs with a stud sensor. Alternatively, spacing the nails every 12" should be sufficient.
