How to Install Baseboard Trim for Carpet Areas

Carpet installation goes more smoothly if the baseboard installed along the carpeted areas is done with the carpet in mind. In many cases, the baseboard trim for carpet areas is installed either too close to the floor or too far from the floor. The former requires the carpet installers to but the carpet edge against the baseboard and the latter leaves a space between the bottom of the baseboard trim and the top of the carpet. Both work but neither is ideal. By leaving a proper amount of space between the baseboards and the floor, those situations can be easily avoided.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 1/4 inch lattice

1. Cut the lattice into one inch wide pieces to use as spacers. The spacers will keep the baseboard trim a uniform 1/4 inch off of the floor.

2. Place the spacers on the floor in each corner and set a scrap piece of base board trim on top of them. Use a pencil to mark the top of the trim on the wall.

3. Snap a chalk line on each wall, using the marks made in Step 2. These guidelines will dictate where the top of the baseboards go.

4. Spread several more spacers along the walls, roughly every 2 feet or so. Place the baseboard trim on the spacers.

5. Nail the trim into the wall, lining up the top of the baseboard with the guidelines. It may be necessary to remove a spacer or lift the trim board up a little to keep the top of the baseboard lined up with the guideline.