How to Miter Cut a Baseboard

There are many different angle cuts necessary when you are installing baseboard.

Baseboard is found along the floor of many homes and is installed where the wall meets the floor. Baseboard not only adds protection for the base of the wall, but also gives the room a more distinct look. When you are installing baseboard, there will be many straight cuts that need to be made with your miter saw. At corners, angle cuts can be made. These are a little trickier than straight cuts, and proper measurements must be taken to ensure the proper cuts are made.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Pencil
• T-square
• Protractors
• Miter saw
• Safety goggles

Instructions

1. Measure the distance from the piece of baseboard already installed to the first corner with a tape measure and record that measurement. Transfer that measurement onto the piece of baseboard that needs to be cut and draw a small mark with a pencil at the desired cut location.

2. Line up a T-square along the pencil mark and draw a straight line across the entire width of the baseboard so the cut can be made much easier. Stand the baseboard up and slide it into the miter saw with the back of the baseboard pushing against the fence on the saw.

3. Measure the angle of the wall that will need to be mitered. Line up a protractor at the angle location and open it up. Record the angle measurement. Most corner angles on a wall will measure around 90 degrees, but always measure to be certain.

4. Pull the knob on the miter saw and turn it in either direction to half of the recorded angle measurement. If the angle was 90 degrees, turn it to 45 degrees in either direction. The two pieces of baseboard you will cut will add up to the total angle measurement when they are butted together. Tighten the knob and lock it into place.

5. Line up the blade of the saw with the mark on the baseboard and pull the lever. Bring the blade straight down over the baseboard. Pull it out and turn the blade to the angle measurement in the opposite direction. Cut the second piece just like the first was cut.

6. Butt the two pieces up together on the wall at the corner and verify that they fit together properly. Repeat the process for any other angles that need to be cut.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear safety goggles when you are working with a circular saw to protect your eyes from flying pieces of wood and other debris.

References

• The Family Handyman: How to Use a Power Miter Saw