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Baseboard molding conceals the small gaps and seams between the walls and floor and provides your indoor space with a finished and clean look. Not only do they look attractive but they also protect your walls and floor from dirt, debris, and moisture.
The baseboard molding installation process usually involves a nail gun but using this tool is not mandatory. This step-by-step guide will show you how to install baseboard molding without a nail gun in an easy way.
Contents
How To Install Baseboard Molding Without A Nail Gun – Easy Steps
You can install your baseboard molding using the following supplies and steps without spending too much time and money.
Supplies You’ll Need
You’ll need to use the following materials and tools to complete the job correctly and efficiently.
- Baseboard molding
- Miter saw
- Measuring tape
- Long level (4-foot preferably)
- Nails
- Stud Finder
- Hammer
- Adhesive
- Paint
While a miter saw makes the process quick, you can also use a coping saw for cutting baseboard.
Step 1: Remove Old Baseboard Molding
The first step is to remove the old baseboard molding if it’s already there. But if you’re installing it for the first time, you can skip this step.
Use a knife to cut through the caulking or paint of the baseboard trim. Perform this step carefully and make sure you don’t damage the floor and wall accidentally.
Start removing the trim and get rid of it carefully as it’ll still have nails. After that, use sandpaper or a scraper to remove the remaining adhesive and paint residue to make sure it doesn’t interfere with your new baseboard molding.
Step 2: Take Measurements and Cut Trim
Taking accurate measurements is the most critical step to installing baseboard molding. If you mismeasure, the entire installation process can be ruined. You need to perform the following while taking measurements and cutting your baseboard trim.
Arrange Baseboard Molding
First, you need to measure the perimeter of your room wall by wall using a measuring tape. Make sure that you have a little bit more molding than you think you may need. It comes in handy if you accidentally damage the trim. I recommend you opt for one or two extra stock lengths to cover such unwanted scenarios.
As mentioned, baseboard molding comes in different materials and styles. Choose the one that suits your indoor house theme the best.
Check Floor Level
Making sure that your floor is properly leveled is important. An uneven floor will pop out of your trim at different places. Not only will it look bad but it can also damage the molding.
Place a spare piece of molding on an even place against the wall and use a 4-foot level and pencil to mark a straight line on each wall. This line will indicate the point that the top of your baseboard molding should reach.
Cut Baseboard Molding
After leveling, start cutting your baseboard molding using the measurements you took earlier. Double-check your measurements and use a miter saw to cut your baseboard.
You can simply cut the baseboard at a 90 degrees angle. But when it comes to outside and inside corners, going for a 45 degrees angle is advisable. It’ll provide your corners with a better look.
You’ll also need to take care of objects that your molding can bump into. Trimming and scooting the board against such objects will do the job.
Once you have cut your material into desired pieces, sand the backside to achieve a smooth surface before starting the installation process.
Step 3: Start Installation Process
Taking measurements and cutting your baseboard will make the installation process a lot easier as you have all the materials and tools in place already.
- Secure the baseboard in place using finishing nails and a hammer. You can either use the best framing hammer, or try a cordless framing hammer. Use a stud finder to find the right place for nails. If you don’t have one you can bang on the wall gently to find the hollow sections.
- Align the baseboard with the line that you marked using a 4-foot level and pencil and hammer a couple of nails into each stud. You can also use some glue to fill in the nail holes to get a more secure finish.
- Use wood adhesive on the outer corners for a stronger connection. While you can use wood adhesive on the inner corners as well, it’s not required if you have cut the baseboard accurately at 45 degrees angle.
- Install the shoe molding to the flooring using the pin nails. If your floor is made of concrete, you’ll need to clip the shoe molding into the attached baseboard.
- We also recommend you attach the cap molding as well, whenever feasible.
Step 4: Finish the Installation
After installing baseboard molding, clear off your room by removing all the materials. Let the adhesive dry and use sandpaper on corners if necessary.
Once you’re done, find the damp areas and start caulking them. It’ll allow you to seal your molding to protect it from damage that water and moisture can cause. It’s really important if you’re installing baseboard molding in your bathroom.
You can fill other gaps using the same technique as well to make sure that insects, dust, dirt, water, and air don’t make their way to your living space. I also recommend you apply caulk to small dents, scratches, and nail holes.
If you want to go the extra mile, paint your baseboard molding to achieve an even more stunning look. Not only will it look good, but it’ll also increase the longevity of your application.
Tips to Install Baseboard Molding
Using a high quality nail gun is a fast way to install baseboard, but you don’t need one to get the project done. Here are a few tips for installing baseboard without a nail gun.
- Buy baseboard molding made of durable material and the one that matches your house’s theme.
- Get more material than what you think you may need.
- Always check your floor’s level and take the lower parts into account.
- Caulk small dents, scratches, and holes, especially if they’re around damp areas to keep insects, dirt, dust, and water at bay.
- Paint your molding to improve its appearance and lifespan.
FAQs
Is It Better to Glue or Nail Baseboards?
Using nails to secure your baseboards is necessary. While you can skip glue, using the combination of both will connect your baseboard to the wall more securely. The nails will keep the board in place for a longer period of time and the adhesive will keep the material from popping out. So, you should use both glue and nails to secure your baseboards.
How Can You Hide the Baseboard Nails?
You can easily hide your baseboard nails by using a hammer and finishing nail punch. Drive the nail head slightly below the surface and apply a mixture of wood filler and glue over the nail head into the depression using your finger. Then use sandpaper gently for a smooth surface. Use this technique before applying the finish coat on your baseboard.
Can You Install Baseboard Molding without Nails?
Yes, you can install molding without nails using adhesive but you should not go with this approach. Nails keep your baseboards in place and if you don’t use them, your baseboard will be displaced over time. Not only will you need to spend a whole lot of time reapplying your baseboards, but it can also cost you a pretty penny.
Conclusion
The process of installing baseboards isn’t tough and you can complete it without using a nail gun as well. Be very careful while taking the measurements and always double-check them before cutting your baseboards. I hope this step-by-step guide will help you understand the right way to install baseboard molding without using a nail gun.
