Charles Wardell ("This Old House" magazine) said it best, "Despite their lowly position along the floor, baseboards are one of a house's defining features." Whether you paint or stain baseboards will depend on the style of room, the paint color and the type of baseboard used. Many materials are used to make baseboards and trim. Narrow the choices when choosing a baseboard by determining the budget and what is important in the room design.
Material
There are two basic types of trim and baseboard, paint grade and stainable. Within the paint-grade category, there are many choices. Composite materials are man-made and the most common is MDF (medium-density fiber board). Vinyl cover base is not that common in residential homes, but can be used. Most all paint-grade products are inexpensive compared to the stainable hardwoods. Wood base and trim vary in cost and quality. The hardwoods are more expensive than the soft woods like pine. Budget hardwoods like poplar are also available. Other products such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), products are also available. There are choices to fit every style and budget.
Painting
Painting baseboards expands design options for a room. There are more choices for drama and contrast by painting the baseboards and trim. Painted baseboards work well in both formal and casual rooms. People often choose wood baseboards if they have wood flooring, but a contrasting painted baseboard enhances the look of the wood floors. If the property is a rental, painting is the best option for both cleaning and maintenance of the trim. Painting the baseboards is another way to dress up an otherwise bland room. If expense is a concern, painting will be cheaper and look just as good as a stained baseboard.
Staining
Wood is a more traditional look for baseboards and trim. There are many types of wood with hues and grains that add a touch of old-world style to any room. Wood adds elegance and warmth and is a versatile material. Wood can be used to dress up or down a room. Different woods create their own style and the assortment of stains enhances the unique grain and texture of the wood. Hardwoods are expensive and add to the cost of remodeling. There are budget woods such as pine, but they would look better painted.
Choosing a Product
When deciding whether to use a paint-grade product or stain, narrow down the basic requirements of the project in order of importance. If cost is the most important, choosing a product that is less expensive and can be painted will be the choice. Building with green products or looking for warmth and elegance are great reasons to use high-grade stainable hardwoods. The room itself may have a style that determines the choice of trim. Start with the budget and narrow the choices according to the desired look and feel of the room. Also, choose baseboard that pairs well with the door and window trim.
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