How to Install Rubberized Base Molding

Trim work is one of the last facets of home building. An expert carpenter or well informed do-it-yourselfer can lay baseboard given enough time and the right set of tools. Cutting and mounting wooden baseboard is a complicated process. Rubberized base molding, also known as cove molding, is a quick and easy alternative when remodeling.

Things You'll Need

• Rolls of rubberized cove molding
• Preformed outer corners
• Razor knife
• Tape measure
• Speed square
• Stud finder
• Caulk gun loaded with construction adhesive
• Finishing brads
• Hammer
• Silicone caulk
• Wet rags
• Leather work gloves

Instructions

1. Unroll the cove molding and allow it to lie flat for 24 hours on a large, clean, flat section of floor. Turn up the heat in the room to help the rubber to relax.

2. Hold the rubberized baseboard to the wall and cut a notch into the top of the molding with your razor knife at the point where the baseboard meets the corner. Lay the molding face down on the floor. Place the speed square on top of the baseboard lined up with the notch you already cut. Slice through the molding with your razor knife while holding the square in place with your other hand to use as a cutting guide.

3. Place a bead of adhesive to the top and the bottom edges of the molding, and another up the middle of the rubber. Allow the glue 15 to 20 minutes to become tacky, and press the baseboard into place on the bottom of the wall. Press along the entire length of the baseboard to ensure a firm grip.

4. Start in the corner and place a finishing brad through the baseboard and into the wall. Place a brad every 16 inches so that there is one hitting each stud in the wall for a secure fit. Rub the stud finder across the wall and place a nail into the molding when the light on the finder indicates a stud in the wall.

5. Take your time when cutting inside corner pieces to get a tight fit. Glue prefabricated outside corners onto the wall junctures and slide the ends of the baseboard into the piece. Install rubberized molding around the entire room and allow the adhesive to cure for 12 hours.

6. Remove the adhesive tube from the caulking gun and load it with a tube of caulk. Place a bead of caulk at the top edge of the molding and smooth the bead with a wet rag. Place a vertical bead of caulk at every juncture and corner of the baseboard and smooth each bead with a rag. Place a bead of caulk at the bottom of the molding (unless it meets carpet) and smooth the caulk with a wet rag.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear work gloves when working with knives and hand tools.

References

• Gymboo Floor Installation Guide