Baseboard molding tends to be the overlooked component of interior decor yet its value cannot be denied. As crown molding frames a room from above, baseboard molding will tie a room together from below. It accentuates other trim such as wainscoting and chair rail, giving the space a complete and homely feel. It protects the wall from damage by the vacuum during cleaning or scrapes by moving furniture.

            In this article, we shall delve into some of the very commonly asked questions about this invaluable element of decor.

1.   Must baseboard be similar to crown molding in a room?

Ideally, all the trim in a room and in the house, in general, should give off a sense of consistency. To this, the baseboard molding should be in harmony with the crown molding, chair rail, wainscoting, and any other trim in the space.

This, however, does not mean that they all have to be exactly the same. Often, baseboard trim tends to be less embellished than crown molding. To achieve uniformity, consider keeping the style within the same family. If you prefer to use different styles, maintain another aspect such as the proportions.

2.   What color should baseboard molding be?

As with the ceiling and other trim, most homeowners tend to maintain baseboard molding at a simple white color. White is versatile and can be used literally anywhere without worrying too much about color coordination. It also pairs well with wallpaper or dramatic wall colors and will offer a tone-down for such hues.

All the same, there are no limitations on the color options for baseboard molding. A general consensus is that for homogeneity, the baseboard, crown molding, and other trim ought to be painted the same way.

Nonetheless, painting the molding a shade darker or lighter than the walls leaves a subtle yet outstanding finish that adds to the beauty of the room.

Alternatively, painting the wall, crown molding, and baseboard molding in a similar hue provides a fluidity that helps to subdue and even out the look in a room that is too elaborately decorated. This finish will also draw focus to other elements such as ornate furniture without understating the magnificence of the trim itself.

If the floor has wood paneling or its faux parallel, consider staining the baseboard molding in the same color to retain the finish.

3.   Does the baseboard height matter?

Traditionally, baseboard heights were based on the ceiling height, with taller trim being suitable for higher ceilings. Today, taller baseboard molding is gaining traction even in smaller rooms as it makes a more grand statement and stands out more.

With creative ideas coming up every day, new designs such as stacked up baseboard are fast gaining popularity. The key is to consider elements such as crown molding and how these two will come together when the work is done.

4.   Can baseboard molding be installed on uneven walls?

            Baseboard molding comes in handy in hiding uneven wall surfaces. The installation process, however, may not be as smooth as it would have been on an even surface. There are likely to be gaps in sections where the wall recedes because the trim will rest on the jutted surface. 

In spite of all this, it is possible to install baseboard molding on a crooked wall. To ease the work, opt for a material that is pliable and that will bend with the wall. Polyurethane is such a material that is light and flexible, and that can be worked onto the wall. If there are still a few gaps left despite these efforts, a bit of caulk will go a long way.

5.   What are some baseboard molding materials?

Molding comes in varying materials which have their good qualities as well as their demerits. They include:

●     Wood

Wood can either be hardwood or softwood. Hardwoods stain handsomely and add color and warmth to any room. Softwood are a cheaper alternative to hardwood because the raw material is more readily available.

Wood is often considered an elegant choice of molding because solid wood is considered sturdy. It is also customizable and will be regarded as more valuable than other materials such as MDF and polyurethane, which are cheaper alternatives.

However, this material is not water-proof in its unfinished state. It will be prone to damage if exposed to humidity unless a waterproof finishing is applied. It also tends to expand and contract due to changes in temperature and humidity, making it vulnerable to warping and therefore a poor choice for spaces such as bathrooms. In addition to this, wood molding is likely to be attacked by bug infestations, thereby requiring the proper finishing and regular maintenance.

●     Medium-density fibreboard (MDF)

MDF is a type of engineered wood made of wood fiber, resin, and wax. It is an inexpensive alternative to wood that varies in density, glue type, size, moisture content, and thickness. The thicker and denser the MDF board, the more costly it is likely to be.

It will not split when cutting and is resistant to warping, making it ideal for bathroom and kitchen spaces as well as cabinet doors.  Often compared to solid wood, it is considered a cheaper option that is still as strong and that can last for a good, long while with proper maintenance.

On the flip side, it scratches very easily and will not be repairable when this happens, unlike wood, which is easily sanded down.

●     Poly-vynil chloride (PVC)

This plastic material is ideal for spaces where humidity is a concern such as a bathroom. Molding made out of PVC will be resistant to warping, rotting, and growth of mildew.

However, its sheer composition limits its profile option while its smooth surface makes it difficult to paint even while the paint will be advisable to cover the plastic gleam.

●     Polyurethane

Polyurethane is quite relatively more affordable than other materials and is resistant to insect damage and rotting. Because it is water-resistant, it is ideal for almost any space, including the kitchen and bathroom.

It is light and therefore very easy to work with and install. Dreamwall Decor’s polyurethane baseboard molding also comes pre-primed and ready to paint, making your work a whole lot easier as compared to other material that needs to be primed beforehand and then painted.