BROWSE HOW TOs

How to Mark and Cut in Base Molding

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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After you've taken all of your measurements, you need to mark and cut your base moldings. You must account for all doorways and corners before you start cutting. Properly cut baseboards create a nice, clean accent to your room.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Measuring tape
Pencil
Miter saw
Fine sand paper
Safety goggles

Step1

Measure and mark the base moldings that need to be cut. You can mark all your pieces first and cut them later to save time going back and forth from the measuring tape to the saw.

Step2

Set your saw at zero degrees for straight cuts and forty-five degrees for corners. You may need to use other settings depending on your room.

Step3

Make a steady cut on the pencil marks made in Step 1. Cut slowly because thinner pieces could crack or splinter. Cut all your 0-degree pieces first, then make all your 45-degree angle cuts. Cut any other angles last. This way, you're not resetting your saw for every cut.

Step4

Sand any rough ends on the base moldings. A smooth finish makes for easier installation.

Step5

Check your corner pieces where they meet for proper alignment.

Tips & Warnings

After you cut all of your pieces, you can prime them. It's easier to prime the base moldings before they're on the wall.
Always wear goggles when using power tools and saws.