From removing old baseboards without a fuss to nailing down the perfect fit for seamless corners, the remove and replace baseboard process is a fairly simple project to tackle this weekend! Say goodbye to gaps and hello to a polished finish as you transform your room’s look. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a first-timer, we’re here to answer all your burning baseboard questions.
When we decided to remove the carpet from our stairs, I knew that getting those baseboards off was the first task at hand. Whether you’re removing or replacing carpet, installing new flooring, or updating your baseboards, it’s an easy process that can have major payoff!
I think replacing the baseboard is such a great way to increase the overall design of your room. Increasing the height of the baseboard gives a more modern look to your space, while adding a more decorative baseboard also changes the look. There are so many options that can transform your space.
How to Remove and Replace Baseboard
- If you’re going to update your stairs, the first thing you’ll want to do is remove your baseboards. If you want to be sure to preserve your baseboards and drywall, you’ll want to take this process slow and be careful.
- Start by scoring along the top edge of your baseboard. There will be a layer of caulk there, and you need to cut a thin line with a utility knife to separate the wall from the baseboard.
- Place your trim puller between the baseboard and the wall at a corner. If you don’t have a trim puller, a putty knife works great. GENTLY tap it with a hammer to create a small gap.
- Carefully wedge a pry bar or crowbar into the gap you created. Apply gentle pressure and work along the baseboard, gradually increasing the gap to loosen the baseboard from the wall.
- As the baseboard loosens, you’ll expose the nails holding it to the wall. Use a hammer and nail set to push the nails through the baseboard and into the wall, or pull them out using the pry bar or pliers.
- Once the first section is loose, move along the wall and repeat the process until the entire baseboard is removed.
- If you are removing carpet or adding wood stairs, you’ll do that next. But if you are just replacing the baseboards, continue to the next step.
- If you’re using new baseboards, measure the length required for each wall. Use a miter saw to cut the baseboards at 45-degree angles for the corners so they fit together neatly. Butt joints are also an option for inside corners. This is where you butt one end of a baseboard up against the wall in the corner, and the baseboard on the other wall butts up against that baseboard. But when you’re dealing with outside corners, you definitely want to miter the joints.
- Begin by nailing the first baseboard piece at a corner. Use finishing nails or a nail gun to secure the baseboard to the wall, aiming for the wall studs for better stability.
- Move along the wall, nailing each baseboard section in place. If there are any gaps at the corners or joints, use wood putty or filler to fill them. Fill all nail holes and caulk the top of each baseboard where it meets the wall.
- Once all the baseboards are installed, use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges or filler. If you prefer, you can paint or stain the baseboards to match your room.
Tips and Tricks
- If you plan to paint or stain the baseboards, it’s often easier to do so before installing them. This way, you won’t have to worry about protecting the walls and floor from potential drips or splatters.
- If you’re replacing the baseboards but keeping the same height, match the old baseboard’s height with the new ones. However, if you want to update the look, consider increasing the height slightly for a more modern appearance.
- After installing the new baseboards, use paintable caulk to fill any small gaps between the baseboard and the wall. This will create a seamless finish and prevent dust and debris from accumulating in the gaps.
- When attaching the new baseboards, aim to nail them into wall studs for secure and long-lasting installation. If studs aren’t available at certain points, use wall anchors or fasteners appropriate for your wall type.
What tools do I need to replace baseboards?
All you need to replace baseboards is a couple simple tools. I used a putty knife and hammer to pull the baseboard off this wall, but a crowbar also works. A trim puller is a great tool to use and is designed specifically for this type of job. You’ll also need a utility knife to score the caulk that will be along the top of your baseboards. Other than that, you’ll need a miter saw to cut your new baseboard, and a nail gun to attach your new baseboard to the wall. Wood putty is nice to cover the holes in the baseboards. You’ll also need whatever supplies for how you want to finish your baseboards (stain, paint, etc.). I bet you have the majority of these tools at home already, so this is actually a very simple process!
What’s the best way to ensure a snug fit at the corners?
There are a couple things you’ll want to do to ensure a snug fit. The first is taking very precise measurements. Use a measuring tape to get precise measurements, and remember to account for any inside corner angles. I also highly recommend using a miter saw to cut the ends of the baseboard at a 45-degree angle for inside corners. For outside corners, cut the baseboard with the miter saw set to 45 degrees in the opposite direction. Lastly, I recommend before nailing the baseboards in place, do a dry fit at each corner. Hold the mitered edges together to see how they align. Adjust the cuts if needed to achieve a tight fit.
There you have it! If you decide to remove and replace baseboard in your home, I’d love to see how it turns out! Be sure to use #howwedoandyoucantoo on Instagram so I can see your beautiful space.
And if you’re also looking to revamp your stairs like I did, check out how I transformed my stair treads and risers.
