31 Dec Floor Installation Guide: Baseboards or Flooring First?

A great number of people install their own flooring and one of the biggest questions they have is which comes first – baseboards or flooring. There’s no iron-clad rule that’s applicable in all situations. Much depends on the type of flooring that’s being installed.

Baseboards are typically installed prior to the flooring. For instance, baseboards should be installed first before laying carpeting. It allows for the edges to be tucked under and out of view. However, it’s much easier and convenient for hardwood and laminate flooring to be laid first before installing the trim.

No matter whether baseboards or flooring is installed first, it’s essential that a gap of at least 1 inch is left between the baseboard and the floor. It’s part of the building code and is done for practical purposes.

The gap allows for airflow that aids in decreasing the potential for moisture seeping into the drywall. Once moisture comes in contact with drywall, it opens the door for damage to the home that can foster mold growth and even compromise the integrity of the structure. A gap also allows for expansion of wallboard that will occur over time.

In the case of carpeting, there are multiple reasons for installing baseboards first. When the carpet is installed, it provides a cleaner appearance. Carpeting edges can be tucked under the baseboard for a neater look. When baseboards are installed first, it eliminates the potential for paint drops on the carpet or the stain seeping through.

When it comes to laminate or hardwood, having the trim already in place can actually make the flooring more difficult to install, particularly when individuals reach the other side of the room. For anyone remodeling an existing room with baseboards, it’s a good idea to remove the baseboards if they’re old, worn or damaged before installing any type of flooring.