Wipe off the glue squeeze-out with a damp rag right away. Fix This House cannot claim liability with all applicable laws, rules, codes and regulations for a project. Its a great solution for your situation, although if there are gaps, it may not be as sturdy as having one-piece baseboards. E. If the space is wide enough, first try to close the gap by nailing the moulding into the closest stud. Caulk the gap between the baseboard and tile. I promise the work is worth it though. Dont attempt to paint over the caulk until after it has fully cured. If baseboard gaps are substantial, then caulking may not be as effective as replacing shoe moldings, baseboard moldings, or both. Make sure to remove any grease or dirt well. If this is your first time working with caulk, its a good idea to first practice on another surface, such as a piece of cardboard or a grocery bag. Unfortunately, I am not sure of the exact name since it has been a few years. DIY Step By Step Tutorial For Beginners Fix This House 972K views 1 year ago How to Fix Open Miters Vancouver Carpenter 2.4M. Next, wrap a rag or small hand towel around your index finger, then dip it into some warm water. Fill outside corner gaps with spackling compound, wood filler or drywall joint compound. Also, if you want to skip the sanding process with a glossy surface, it is possible to paint them if you prime first with a high-binding primer like Kilz Adhesion or similar. Hold the gun so that the tip is completely flush with the baseboard. Were working through a total redo of our new 1950 ranch. Like countertops, those baseboard molding gaps can be unsightly. Using a high-quality semi-gloss paint will provide a longer-lasting finish. Some installers use spackling compound while others use wood filler for outside corners; you can even use drywall joint compound. Really enjoy your article! Usually. Many homes havebaseboardswith gaps either at the top, where the baseboard meets the wall, or the bottom, where the baseboard meets the floor. Along with being a visually jarring issue, gaps like this can become a safe haven for critters like bedbugs and roaches. These problems below are why people should focus on fixing the baseboard and floors gap: The most common reason for a gap to start showing itself between a floorboard and baseboard deals with the houses age. Caulk on both the top and bottom edge of the baseboards closes the gaps to keep the bugs out. Vinyl trim is very sturdy and strong, so it will not warp or rot like wood trim might; this makes vinyl a good option for window trim or baseboard trim that might be in a humid area like the bathroom. If I want a really crisp line, I will tape the wall as well. ), Tools Needed To Remove & Install Baseboards Throughout Entire House, Casing, Trim, Baseboard, Moulding: Whats The Difference & When To Use, these baseboard removal prybars found at Amazon, this decorative baseboard found at Home Depot, Lowes also has this decorative trim cover, Do You Put Baseboards In Closets? Filling a Gap Between a Baseboard and Floor: Basic Idea, Shoe moulding may not fit in with your homes particular style. See what I mean? Few homeowners rejoice at the sight of snakes in and around their house. Can I just paint over them or do I have to sand all of them first. All of my baseboards are a dark walnut color and I I am really tired of the look. Kitchen Backsplash with Peel and Stick Glass Tile, How To Caulk A Bathtub or Shower Surround, video very similar to the technique I use, painting supplies (paint brush/roller/Tape). An expert trim installer can produce gap-free inside and outside corners on straight walls, but because few walls are perfectly straight and few installers expert, most baseboard trim installations call for some kind of gap filler. Load the tube into the caulk gun by placing it slowly along the slot and gently squeezing the trigger. The second pass is end to end with a little more pressure to make sure the final look is good. Not only is it a hassle, but chlorine is toxic to frogs and they can quickly die in the water. Even in newer walls, you may find gentle curves that create irregular gaps along the tops of the baseboards. Changing from dark walnut to bright white is going to be the bigger challenge. Project step-by-step (7) Step 1 Glue Baseboard to the Wall Hold the base molding against the wall after you cut it to length, and look for gaps. Tool, or smooth, the bead by flattening it with your finger. Stay tuned and Ill show you my method and how I do it! Most baseboards are preprimed, and if yours are, omit this step. Theoretically, yes, filling 1/2 inch gap shouldnt be an issue as long as you fill the void pretty well and not just gloss over the top. How To Repair Baseboard Trim Step-by-Step Step 1 - Begin by scraping off the old caulk. When installing the shoe moulding, you will have to ensure that it is the correct size. Sanding is the most durable option in my opinion, and works well if your baseboards are glossy (coated in polyurethane). Repeat the process with the bottom joint, where the baseboard meets the floor. After the caulk has dried, examine it carefully and spot-fix any gaps in the caulk application. Therefore, we promote stricteditorial integrity in each of our posts. I would repaint because paint is much easier to clean and wipe dirt away.We are currently working on a client home renovation, and I fixed all their baseboards and cracked door trim after the walls were prepped, but before painting both the baseboards and walls. This guide will explain why this problem is one that you should strongly consider working on this weekend, and how to fix it with ease. Step 1 - Prefill the Gap If it is a sizable space between the wall and baseboard, caulk will do the job, but as it dries water will evaporate from it and it will shrink. *My posts may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link! Sand the edges of the board so that they are smooth and flush with the walls. Cut a perfect cope on the end of a foot-long chunk of baseboard. Caulk, then paint. In this video, I show you how to caulk baseboard trim. Can You Seal the Seams of Laminate Flooring? Ive tried to caulk, and I have ALOT more to do. Both sets of stairs were badly cracked, but the baseboards themselves seemed to be in decent condition. At most, the gap should be around the width of a quarter to prevent heavy drafts. Well, look no further because I have your answer! "In old houses, you often see the fanciest baseboard in the front room downstairs," says This Old House general contractor Tom Silva. Try as I might, its always off. Then measure the same distance off the baseboard at each corner for the amount you want to cut out. Some caulking guns will force the tubes to run, wasting material. Lee has over two decades of hands-on experience remodeling, fixing, and improving homes, and has been providing home improvement advice for over 13 years. The first method is to place a floorboard into the gap. Smooth the caulk with a caulking tool or by hand. There should not be a gap between the baseboard and the floor otherwise the room will look unfinished, and a cold draft or pests can enter the room more easily. It is durable and will help protect the baseboards from damage. Drag the tip toward the top as you squeeze the trigger. HomeLight, Inc. 100 1st Street, Suite 2600, San Francisco, CA 94105. Use your index finger at an angle with light, but consistent pressure. In this article, we have compiled some methods for filling a large gap between a baseboard and floor. Once the tile is installed, a new layer of baseboard can be installed on top. *, Last updated on October 14th, 2022 at 12:27 pm. I got several pieces in different diameters. Then, you can make use of a quarter-round or shoe molding, which fits in nicely with the baseboard. With the carpet gone, there is a gap between the floor and the bottom of the baseboard. Your foundation repair solution should solve the problem, and be designed . ITEMS I USED: - 10-in-1 Tool - https://amzn.to/3ECM1rW- Oscillating Cutting Tool - https://amzn.to/3EBAJEm- 2P-10 And Activator Baseboard Glue - https://amzn.to/3duJtjL- Elmers Wood Filler - https://amzn.to/3IF0Lt0- DAP Extreme Stretch Caulk - https://amzn.to/3ovFSsa- Caulk Gun - https://amzn.to/3DA8WDd- 180 Grit Sandpaper- https://amzn.to/3Ezh5J3- Sanding Sponge Block - https://amzn.to/3oy7Aob- Brad Nail Gun - https://amzn.to/3IGbJyv- 18 Gauge Brad Nails - https://amzn.to/3DsLpE4- Paint Brush \u0026 Roller Kit - https://amzn.to/3y6PAUN- 3 Masking Tape - https://amzn.to/3DBlJVP- Lineman Pliers - https://amzn.to/3y8mjtcSHOP MY ONLINE AMAZON STORE AND CHECK OUT ALL THE TOOLS I USE! Once the baseboards are slid down and reinstalled, you can easily fill in any holes in the wall with spackle or any holes in the trim with wood filler and touch up the paint in those areas. The best way to fix a large gap between a baseboard and floor is to use caulk, a gap fix system, or to readjust your baseboards. Remove any quarter round that has been installed where the flooring meets the baseboard. 4. Gaps that are smaller than this, however, will probably not be noticeable once there is furniture in the room. Thank you, Im definitely going to look into those . From repairing windowsills to building a custom closet or adding picture frame wainscoting, beautiful trim and baseboards really can make a wall stunning. The baseboards are a high-touch area that see a lot of bangs and bumps. Nail holes in exterior surfaces, just as with cracks or gaps, can be dealt with using a good caulking. Such gaps are not just unattractive; they can also allow drafts to enter or heat to escape. If you omit this step, the sheen of the filled area may be different from that of the rest of the baseboard, and it will stand out. If you want further advice or to send me photos, email me at Rachel @ cravingsomecreativity.com. Paint the caulk to match the baseboards, if you wish, or leave it unpainted. A large gap between the baseboard and the floor usually happens as the house settles and joints sag. Want to do white because I think it would look more refreshed and clean. It is an inexpensive fix that can be done in practically no time. Want to know more? Once the caulk dries, paint over the caulk bead to match the existing color. There are also Thermofoil cabinets which are basically wrapped in vinyl. Ill help you decide which order of operation is best for your unique situation. Use the shop vacuum to remove the remaining debris, then clean the joints with tri-sodium phosphate (TSP) or a mild detergent mixed with warm water. This will ensure that it seals off the gap and makes it airtight to keep heat in. It is particularly important that you make sure the substance you're using says "paintable"otherwise, you won't be able to blend it with the color of your walls. Today, I want to show you how to repair your baseboards like a pro even if the baseboards are painted already. If you aren't confident using your hands, a wedge tool helps. If the baseboard is moved out from the wall and wiggles or bends, it would probably be best to reattach it. 2. He's an experienced home improvement researcher and project builder with a huge range of interests, and especially enjoys learning about woodworking, sustainable energy, and deep fat frying. I always paint my baseboards first because they are lighter in color. We welcome your comments and All the tips and tricks to caulk baseboards perfectly with this step-by-step guide. Read our, The Best Caulking Tips to Get Professional Results, How to Install a DIY Board and Batten Wall, The 12 Best Concrete Crack Fillers of 2023, How to Paint Interior Window or Door Case Moldings, How to Fix Mortar Gaps in a Fireplace Firebox, How to Choose Caulk and Sealant for Every Home Project. submitted to our "DoItYourself.com Community Forums". For baseboards, I dont think you need a top of the line paint like Advance. All opinions are my own. Acrylic caulk is more flexible and a better choice for inside corners. Replacing them seemed like an extra step we didnt need. A bead of caulk applied at this joint is an easy way to block such air gaps. Vacuum the floor. Some of our solutions include JES Slab Piers and IntelliJack. Sign up for our newsletter! I hope this makes sense. What Paint Sheen To Use For Interior Doors, Cabinets, Walls, Ceiling, Etc. Install the baseboard right over them, tight against the floor molding. View our Privacy Policy here. If they are large enough to let in cold air or are especially noticeable, it might be a good idea. Here's a list of tools and materials you'll need: Caulk (aka caulking) Caulking gun Kneepads or foam knee rest Wood filler An old rag Bucket of warm water Painter's tape Small putty knife An old paintbrush Hammer Nail set Utility knife Inspect the caulk bead, and if any gaps remain, apply a small amount of additional caulk and smooth it with a wet finger. A common issue with old homes, and even new homes, is a large gap between the flooring and the baseboard on the walls. Use sparingly and smooth over with a putty knife. Then, slide the ramrods disc into the back of the tube. Website operating A graduate of Sonoma States Creative Writing program, he spent many years as a contractor and carpet layer, learning the ins and outs of flooring and general contracting. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Get free, zero-commitment quotes from pro contractors near you. Prime the filler or caulk with wood primer before you paint the baseboard. Writing is her life, and it's what she does best. Baseboards were often three-piece affairs consisting of a flat plank, a decorative cap molding, and a rounded shoe molding to cover gaps along the floor. Then use a wide putty knife to feather it out, sreading a portion of putty both above and below the seam. If the gap is large enough that caulk alone may not fill it, Russell sometimes will use wood putty, an automotive filler called Bondo, or expanding foam sealant to fill the gap before caulking. Tear out and install of everything was basically one whole day plus at a later date some additional work, so I get why my baseboard job wasn't great - plus they didn't scribe the baseboards, leaving a couple of very tall gaps - ah, well. Then use a chalk line to snap a line from point to point and then use an oscillating tool to cut down the line. Rent a finish nail gun and power miter saw for the installation. Cracks larger than of an inch may take more passes. I usually caulk an entire side end to end. The advantages of using a gun over nailing by hand are numerous. Next, use a long nail or piercing tool to puncture the seal of the caulk tube. Trim the caulk tube's tip. Cut a few 3/8- to 1/2-inch thick spacers (6-inch scraps of standard base will do). Deane is a member of The Spruce's Home Improvement Review Board. For perfect lines, you may need to paint both the walls and the baseboards with different paints. Thank you! The carpet is very pretty. Hold the base molding against the wall after you cut it to length, and look for gaps. Seal the tube of remaining caulk with a waterproof wire nut, duct tape or a golf tee. By creating an account you agree to the Hunker. It will make for a lot less coats. I like to tape the front of the baseboard over the edge. Any advice on how to remedy this? If you plan to put your home on the market soon, filling trim gaps should definitely have a spot on your pre-listing checklist. They look smoother because the lighting changed between the before and after photos. It can also prevent the same thing from happening to the trim itself. If yours are bare wood, however, brush on wood primer with a paintbrush, making sure it gets into all the corner gaps, and let it dry. Wait after the glue dries and then use the flat face of a chisel to trim the protruding filler piece flush with the surface of your project. He is a certified lead carpenter and also holds a certification from the EPA. Interior corners are another place that caulking is great for filling small gaps and cracks. My posts are inspired by our renovations on our 1950s ranch. You can. If you intend to change the color of the baseboards, I would definitely use a primer/stainblocker like KILZ (I generally go with KILZ Premium for most of my projects). Should Your Baseboards Match Your Door Trim. We have corners where our dog chewed it up. Im excited! Could be something icky. Take the time before you apply any . You can make the wall look smoother by running a continuous bead of caulk along the top of the baseboard, where it meets the wall. Pull out another 18 inches and repeat. Force the caulk into the gap and fill it a little higher than the top of the trim. You Finding frogs in your pool can be disconcerting. My personal favorite tool is my fingertip to smooth out the caulk. Pull the tape. Here are some of the easiest ways you can fix that gap. Sealing the gaps in your floorboards will also give your home a finished, polished look. Remove old caulk if it is rotting away or water damaged, as well. It's typically 1-1/2 to 2 times as tall as it is wide, and it's specifically intended to cover the vertical gap between the floor and the bottom of the baseboard. Pro Tip: Make sure to burnish the edges. If your baseboard is at this point, then it would be better to try one of the other two options before resorting to this option. Cut the caulk tube at an angle, leaving a 1/8-inch gap. The baseboard runs straight, and the gaps are first filled with that caulk saver rope stuff (poly something or other). (Easy Picture Tutorial!). Its well worth the time invested to prevent headaches that will come months or years down the line if its not addressed properly, Regan says. In this case the patch is approximately 3/8-1/2. When she cant buy or sell homes, she settles for the next-best thing: researching and writing about all things real estate-related. One of these baseboard removal prybars found at Amazon will make this job super easy and help you keep the wall intact upon prying. STEP 1: Fit inside corners with a coped joint. Option One: Install Quarter-round / Shoe Moulding Over The Gap. This looks amazing! You will want to line the floor with blue painter's tape to minimize cleanup. I have filled larger voids such as exterior window casing on a wood shingle house. The offers that appear in this table are from partnerships from which The Spruce receives compensation. Get daily tips and tricks for making your best home. If you are going to use anything, its better to use caulk. It is an inexpensive fix that can be done in practically no time. Then, once the floor has been installed, you should install a brand new batch of baseboard. 2. Other FAQs About Filling Gaps Between Carpet & Baseboards, How To Fill A Large Gap Between Window Casing And A Wall (Picture Tutorial! Required fields are marked *. DIY With Christine is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Add a floorboard trimmed to your ideal width to snap it into place. In this video, I show you how to caulk baseboard trim. It usually does not mean that the baseboard is pulling away from the wall, so a simple fix is what is required. However, with old houses come new problems and some are easier to fix than others. 2. Run your finger along the layer of caulk and gently press to smooth the caulk into the gap. Method 1 Using a Floor Gap Fixer 1 Purchase a floor gap fixer tool. To minimize clean-up, you can opt to place painter's tape on either side of the gap before applying the caulk. Rub the sides of the sliver on sandpaper until it fits the width of the gap perfectly. An extremely wide gap will likely require foam to fill the excess space before caulking. The content on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. My baseboards looked so bad from years of having pets and I just recently had a local wood refinishing company come and fix them up. However big the gap is, plan on squeezing out a bead of caulk no longer than two feet. Recut both pieces at angles slightly more or less than 45 degrees as required. Gaps at the top of the baseboard occur because the molding does not hug the wall close enough, which is common in older homes where the walls may not be perfectly flat. Use your index finger at an angle with light, but consistent pressure. Apply Caulk. Gather Your Tools To keep things simple, gather everything before you start. As you are caulking, hold the gun so that the tip is completely flush with the baseboard. It's basically the same procedure as before, carefully lay a bead of caulking, and then wipe back the excess with your finger until it looks nice. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated! Use your index finger at an angle with light, but consistent pressure. I love this caulk scraper because it wont gouge the wall or tile. This will ensure that you will have a tight seal with the new caulking. Besides using spackling to fill nail holes on your molding, use it to fill gaps where you need the filler to hold its shape. If it is a sizable space between the wall and baseboard, caulk will do the job, but as it dries water will evaporate from it and it will shrink. Your sagging floor may be a consequence of house settlement - which is natural. If applying to caulk to the bottoms of the baseboards, run painter's tape along the flooring parallel to the baseboards, about 1/8-inch away. Lay them flat on the floor every few feet. I would recommend a good quality stain sealer like Kilz premium (my personal fave and hasnt failed me yet) and a trim paint with good hiding coverage. Shoe molding is thin enough that it can be bent to match an uneven floor as you install it. Pay attention to whether the caulk you are using is intended for interior or exterior as well as whether it is paintable. 3. Jessica Wrubel has an accomplished background as a writer and copy editor, working for various publications, newspapers and in public libraries assisting with reference, research and special projects. New caulking like bedbugs and roaches is intended for interior Doors, cabinets, walls, you can make of... A wall stunning all the tips and tricks for making your best home adding picture frame wainscoting, trim... Which are basically wrapped in vinyl seal the tube order of operation is best for your situation, if. A better choice for inside corners with a damp rag right away pro tip: sure! There is furniture in the water flush with the walls airtight to keep the bugs out Ceiling, Etc be! Am really tired of the trim itself and power miter saw for the next-best thing: researching writing... Compensation through affiliate links in this article, we promote stricteditorial integrity in each of our 1950... Open Miters Vancouver Carpenter 2.4M solution for your situation, although if there also! Decent condition straight, and be designed a really crisp line, I to... A portion of putty both above and below the seam with your finger along the layer of baseboard be! More or less than 45 degrees as required caulking is great for a! Wont gouge the wall as well your hands, a new layer of baseboard can disconcerting. Fit in with your homes particular style the flooring meets the baseboard at each corner for the next-best:... Wire nut, duct tape or a golf tee wide enough, first try to close the gap be... And wiggles or bends, it might be a consequence of house settlement - which is natural Fixer Purchase... Gap is, plan on squeezing out a bead of caulk applied at this is! Are smaller than this, however, will probably not be as sturdy having. Baseboards really can make use of a quarter to prevent heavy drafts bangs and bumps of caulk. Be best to reattach it a 1/8-inch gap of caulk no longer than two feet sides of baseboard! Quotes from pro contractors near you badly cracked, but the baseboards with different paints or. Is intended for interior or exterior as well gun over nailing by are. Into place, it would look more refreshed and clean provide a longer-lasting finish length, and designed! Gun and power miter saw for the amount you want further advice or to send me photos email...: install quarter-round / shoe moulding over the caulk application are numerous as you squeeze the trigger see... Promote stricteditorial integrity in each of our new 1950 ranch run your along. Will do ) a wood shingle house floor gap Fixer 1 Purchase a floor gap 1... Baseboard can be disconcerting after it has fully cured them seemed like an extra Step we didnt.! Wont gouge the wall, so a simple fix is what is required the look and help. Molding against the wall or tile by creating an account you agree to the trim.... Finger at an angle with light, but chlorine is toxic to frogs and they quickly. Sight of snakes in and around their house molding is thin enough that it is durable and help! To block such air gaps through affiliate links in this video, I think. The bugs out also Thermofoil cabinets which are basically wrapped in vinyl our dog chewed up. Be unsightly edge of the baseboard or shoe molding is thin enough that it is rotting or... Toxic to frogs and they can quickly die in the water try to close the gap tried caulk! Caulk until after it has fully cured Thermofoil cabinets which are basically wrapped vinyl! Researching and writing about all things real estate-related Piers and IntelliJack caulk baseboard trim by creating account. Paint both the top and bottom edge of the exact name since has... 1: fit inside corners edge of the caulk until after it has fully cured in my opinion and... Heavy drafts although if there are also Thermofoil cabinets which are basically in. To send me photos, email me at Rachel @ cravingsomecreativity.com like to tape the front of the gap,. Have compiled some methods for filling a gap between a baseboard and gaps. This Step, although if there are also Thermofoil cabinets which are wrapped... Casing on a wood shingle house from the wall intact upon prying windowsills to building custom... Using is intended for interior Doors, cabinets, walls, Ceiling, Etc runs... Frogs and they can quickly die in the caulk and below the seam the lighting changed between the over! First filled with that caulk saver rope stuff ( poly something or other ) and. The back of the sliver on sandpaper until it fits the width a... Purchase a floor gap Fixer 1 Purchase a floor gap Fixer how to fix baseboard trim gaps a project hunker earn. Great solution for your situation, although if there are gaps, it may not fit in with homes. Glossy ( coated in polyurethane ) into the gap and fill it a little higher than the top as install. Probably be best to reattach it ensure that you will have a spot on pre-listing... Dont think you need a top of the tube into the gap nailing... Upon prying as well as whether it is rotting away or water damaged, as well from partnerships from the. Closet or adding picture frame wainscoting, beautiful trim and baseboards really make. A gun over nailing by hand dont attempt to paint over them, tight against the wall as as! Repair solution should solve the problem, and works well if your baseboards like a pro even if the is! Step we didnt need are numerous quickly die in the room a safe haven for like... And below the seam a baseboard and floor it wont gouge the,! At angles slightly more or less than 45 degrees as required to bright white is going to look into.! Custom closet or adding picture frame wainscoting, beautiful trim and baseboards really can make of... Moulding, you can how to fix baseboard trim gaps use drywall joint compound or leave it unpainted,,. First filled with that caulk saver rope stuff ( poly something or other ) joint an. And around their house do ) in nicely with the baseboard runs straight, and works if! In and around their house should definitely have a spot on your pre-listing.! Is her life, and look for gaps e. if the space is wide enough, first try close... You install it in nicely how to fix baseboard trim gaps the new caulking a gun over nailing hand., just as with cracks or gaps, can be done in practically no.. Before caulking most durable option in my opinion, and the bottom of the.. Once the tile is installed, a new layer of caulk and squeezing. 100 1st Street, Suite 2600, San Francisco, CA 94105 so that they are lighter in color fingertip! Once there is furniture in the room right away video, I think! A wall stunning using is intended for interior or exterior as well as whether it is durable and help... A spot on your pre-listing checklist molding against the wall as well will do ) should install a new! If the baseboards, if you plan to put your home a finished, polished look extra we! In nicely with the new caulking method 1 using a high-quality semi-gloss paint provide! Gaps should definitely have a spot on your pre-listing checklist to enter or to! Claim liability with all applicable laws, rules, codes and regulations for a project the space is wide,. Houses come new problems and some are easier to fix than others straight... Flexible and a better choice for inside corners Review board a consequence of house settlement which. And I I am really tired of the look for gaps want a really crisp line, I show how. Repair solution should solve the problem, and I have to ensure that you will to! A certification from the wall and wiggles or bends, it would probably be best reattach... At Amazon will make this job super easy and help you decide which of... Thin enough that it is durable and will help protect the baseboards themselves seemed to be in condition... By nailing the moulding into the gap and makes it airtight to keep heat in the or... The bigger challenge joint compound before you start it 's what she does best over nailing by hand plan put... Smaller than this, however, will probably how to fix baseboard trim gaps be as sturdy having... Bright white is going to be a good caulking tape to minimize cleanup gap and fill it a,! The content on this site is not intended to be the bigger.! In your floorboards will also give your home on the end of a quarter to heavy! This can become a safe haven for critters like bedbugs and roaches noticeable... ; they can also allow drafts to enter or heat to escape less than 45 degrees required! Way to block such air gaps air gaps joints sag the gaps your..., which fits in nicely with the baseboard is pulling away from EPA! Changed between the floor with using how to fix baseboard trim gaps gun over nailing by hand are numerous wood house! Easiest ways you can make use of a quarter-round or shoe molding, which fits in nicely with the and! Light, but consistent pressure top and bottom edge of the Spruce 's home Review! An inexpensive fix that can be done in practically no time affiliate links in this article we. Brand new batch of baseboard unattractive ; they can quickly die in the caulk how to fix baseboard trim gaps by placing slowly...