How to Cut Baseboard Trim

It can be a snap cutting baseboard trim as long as you know the type of cuts you need. Different types of saws are used for different types of cuts so follow the directions carefully to ensure your cuts are perfect.

Things You'll Need

• Baseboard Trim
• Coping Saw
• Miter saw
• Table Saw
• Tape Measure

Instructions

Cut Baseboard Trim

1. Cope the inside corner where two pieces of baseboard trim meet. Start by using a table saw to cut away the majority of the wood.

2. Use a coping saw to follow the edge of the trim and ensure a tight fitting joint. Dry fit the coped joint to check the work before finishing with nails.

3. Miter cut the ends of baseboard trim as they meet together, usually when one board runs out and a new board begins. Standard miters are usually a 22.5 degree or 45 degree cut. The size cut is optional depending upon the contractor's preference.

4. Cut one end of the baseboard with an inward miter cut and the other with an outward cut. The cuts will meet at an overlap. Glue the ends together. This will ensure the ends will not pull apart in the summer heat when boards shrink. Overlapping the ends will also hide the seam.

Tips & Warnings

• At times your cut will be a perfect fit the first time, but occasionally you'll need to file or sand to get a tight fit. If the joint is close, sand down the high areas with sandpaper.

• All automatic miter saws have stops at both of the standard miter angles of 22.5 and 45 degrees.

• Avoid nailing your baseboard trim into the corners. You might accidentally knock off chunks of dried sheetrock mud.