DIY Installation Guide: Step-by-Step Directions to Installing an MDF Baseboard
Installing an MDF baseboard is a great way to finish off a room and seal the gap where the walls meet the floor. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a professional and attractive finish to your room.
First, determine the suitable size of the baseboard that is required. For a regular two-and-a-half inch casing, the baseboard must be between three-and-a-quarter and four-and-a-quarter inches. The heavier the crown molding, the thicker the baseboard should be. To estimate the size of the baseboard pieces needed, measure the total wall space of the room, and add an additional 10% to account for waste.
Precise cuts are necessary to attain a neat and attractive finish, which is why a power-miter saw is the best tool for the job. Make sure the saw is set up on a table instead of the floor. Also, use blocks to keep the workpiece level on both sides. Also, place the pieces in order to ensure they are all cut at the same angle.
Once all the pieces are cut to size, arrange them against their wall in order. Secure them by using a nail gun compatible with 1 3/4 inch nails. As you secure one piece, start working on the next. Use a flatbar or a saw to trim any pieces to ensure an exact fit. For making inside corners, coat corners are often used and are easy to use.
When all pieces are secured, use joint compound to fill in the straight joints and outside corners. Sand the profiles with a sanding sponge or an 80 grit sand paper. Finally, use a latex caulking to paint the baseboard and the corners.
The installation of an MDF baseboard may seem intimidating, however, with the correct tools and method, it can easily be achieved. Start by measuring your wall space, and make precise cuts on the power-miter saw. Secure all pieces by using a nail gun and fill in all joints using joint compound. Finally, use latex caulking to paint the baseboard and its corners. With patience and attention to detail, you can replicate a professional and attractive finish in any room.
