26 Jun Should I Add Baseboards to my Flooring Renovation?

Baseboards are installed partly for aesthetic reasons, but they also perform an important function. They hide unsightly joints where flooring joins the walls and they also help in protecting wallboard from being damaged by foot traffic and vacuums. Baseboards are an integral part of any renovation project.

When renovating, any existing baseboards will need to be removed before new flooring can be installed. That doesn’t mean you have to reinstall baseboards exactly like the ones that were removed. Baseboards come in a variety of styles and heights.

Baseboard Basics

It’s mostly a question of personal preference what type of baseboards are installed. In general, baseboards should blend with the overall style of the room. In most instances, baseboards should be the same height in inches as your ceiling is in feet. During a renovation, you can also install electrical outlets in the baseboards rather than the walls for a smoother, less cluttered appearance.

There are three basic styles of baseboards. You can choose from flat baseboards that are prevalent in modern homes or go a little fancier with what’s known as a stepped baseboard that has a curved or rounded edge. Sculpted baseboards feature decorative touches that can include scalloping or ridges.

Molding

Baseboards can be combined with molding for a finishing touch that also works to hide flaws, imperfections and inconsistencies where flooring meets the baseboards. Quarter rounds are typically used, but you can also choose options known as shoe molding that can vary in shape and size.

Plain or Flair

While the majority of individuals paint their baseboards and/or molding plain white, there’s no hard and fast rule that says you have to be satisfied with a bland color. Many are choosing to paint or stain their baseboards in an array of colors to add contrast, interest and depth to the room. Try to envision what the color would look like before buying any paint and consider the prevailing color scheme in the room. Pastel shades are the most popular.