The interior trims should not be left out when this is the case. Repainting the baseboards and other trims is the best way to furnish the room.
This guarantees that the room will look fresh and clean.
Best Paints to Paint Baseboard with Hardwood Floors
Choosing the right paint, the color of the paint, and the type of sheen is crucial.
This will determine how the painting job will look when you paint baseboards with hardwood floors.
Paint Options for Painting Baseboards
table below shows the best paint types to paint baseboards with hardwood floors.
| Type of Paint | Upside | Downside |
| Oil-based | Dries moderately, evenly, and smoothly. | It Evens out painting and creates smooth paint. |
| Water-based | Easy to clean up, less toxic. | It increases the visibility of brush strokes and blemishes. |
| Acrylic Alkyd | Dries moderately, even, and smoothly. |
Oil-based Paint
Oil-based paint is an agelong preference for professionals; even with the inception of the US regulations to reduce the usage of oil-based paint, the paint remains the best option for baseboards, cabinets, and other trim projects.
The advantage oil-based paint has over water-based paint is that;
- It evens out when painting, creating a smooth flow, especially when using a brush and rollers.
- It also dries slowly, which gives you time to take breaks when painting.
The downside of using oil-based paint is;
- It dries slowly, so you may only paint a coat at a time.
- It requires toxic solvents to thin it out.
- It can be stored because it contains flammable VOCs, so you should dispose of the containers when you finish with them.
Water-based Paint
Although not so popular among professionals, water-based paint is a veritable option for painting baseboards and other trims. Its benefits include the fact that;
- It dries faster than oil-based paint.
- It is less toxic than oil-based paint because it contains low volatile organic compounds.
- Because it is water-based, it is easy to clean.
However, it is not advisable to use water-based paint to paint baseboards or trims because;
- It dries too fast, which may not give you the chance to take breaks.
- As a result of its fast-drying feature, it makes brush strokes and blemishes more visible.
Alkyd Acrylic Hybrid Paint
Considering the dangers of oil-based paint, its advantages, and the advantages of water-based paint and its disadvantages, alkyd acrylic paint combines the upside of both types of paint.
The upside of acrylic alkyd paint is that it;
- It dries in a reasonable time, roughly 6-8 hours; this is slower than water-based paint and faster than oil-based paint.
- It creates smooth coats, which makes it the best option for DIYers that want to use paint or brush.
- It also contains a semi-gloss sheen, perfect for painting baseboards and other trims.
While they are different sheen types, the semi-gloss sheen is appropriate for baseboards.
Looking at the options available, the best paint to use is alkyd acrylic paint.
If you have already purchased an oil-based or acrylic paint, do not fret, as I already considered that in this guide.
How to Prepare Baseboard with Hardwood Floor to Paint
Getting a baseboard to be painted like a pro and improving the home decoration is often not a result of the painting itself; both the paint and preparation of the baseboards are essential.
To paint the baseboard with hardwood floors, you should prepare the baseboard first.
Items Needed.
- Painter’s Tape.
- Drop Cloth.
- Trisodium Phosphate (TSP).
- Plastic tarp.
- Sponge.
- Gloves.
- Caulk or Caulk Gun.
- Spackle.
- Sandpaper.
- Spring-loaded nail set tool.
- 5 in 1 painter’s tool.
Once you have gotten these items, let’s proceed to the steps to prepare your baseboard.
| Steps | Instructions |
| Step 1 | Prime the surface |
| Step 2 | Set any popped nail |
| Step 3 | Fill holes with spackle |
| Step 4 | Sand the baseboards |
| Step 5 | Caulk the baseboards |
| Step 6 | Lay down your plastic tarp |
| Step 7 | Tape off the hardwood floor and wall |
Prime the Baseboard’s Surface
To do this, mix some TSP with water in a bucket, and follow the instructions on the box.
Dip a sponge into the TSP water and use it to wipe down the baseboards and the bottom of the wall.
The TSP will eliminate dirt on the baseboard and make the painter’s tape adhere better to the surface to create a brittle, clean line.
TSP is also essential to remove dirt from hardwood floors; you should try it if needed.
Safety Caution
Make sure you are wearing gloves while dealing with TSP, or it make cause skin irritation.
Set Any Popped Nails
If the baseboard is new, this may not be an option, but some nails may have popped up over time if the baseboard has been there for a while.
Using the spring-loaded nail set, carefully pull it back and let it go.
You should not use hammers because the space is too tight, so you won’t be able to swing the hammer.
Fill Any Hole with Sparkle
Sparkling compounds are pretty effective for filling holes, filling any hole, scratch, or dents on the baseboard with them.
To remove any excess, use a putty knife to smooth it out.
Sand the Baseboards
Do you have to sand baseboards before painting baseboards?
Yes, you have to; the only exception is if the baseboard is relatively new or in good shape and has been painted before.
You must first sand an unpainted wooden baseboard to remove the polyurethane top coat.
Use a fine-grit sanding sponge with angle corners to sand the baseboard corners.
For the flat surface, use 220 sandpaper to smooth the flat surface.
This sponge will make your work easier because there is an angle to march every surface.
After sanding the edges, and the flat surface, remove the sanding dust with a vacuum cleaner.
Clean the baseboard with a microfiber cloth or a wet rag when you are done.
Caulk the Baseboards Before Painting
A newly installed baseboard will require caulking the gaps before painting it.
Check the seams of the old trim between the quarter round and the baseboard and between the baseboards and the wall.
If there is no caulk or a cracked caulk, apply a new tube.
To do that, cut the caulk tube’s tip at an angle and use a caulk gun to run a thin bead down the seam.
Wrap your hands with paper towels to smooth the caulk out and remove any excess.
Following the instructions on the caulk tube, wait for the caulk to dry.
Lay Down the Plastic Tarp
Now that the baseboard is prepared for painting, it’s time to take some precautionary measures to protect the room.
While painting your baseboards, the vulnerable area is the floor and wall.
Carefully lay down a plastic tarp all around the room.
However, a plastic tarp may not protect the edges between the floor and the wall, so you must.
Tape Off the Hardwood Floor and Wall
Carefully lay down a wide strip of painter’s tape. Ensure the paint is flat against the wall and not curling onto the trim.
Now that you have all that let’s begin painting correctly.
How to Paint Baseboard with Hardwood Floors
To paint baseboards, you have the liberty to choose from these options;
- Use Brush.
- Use Rollers.
- Use Sprayer.
- Use Pads.
How to Paint Baseboard with Hardwood Floors Using Brushes
Although not mandatory, most professionals use brushes when painting their baseboards, if you want to go down this route, follow these steps.
Items Needed
- Paint.
- 3-inch angled brush.
- Paint cup or tray.
- Stir stick.
Disclaimer:
Often, the paint type indicates the brush you will use on the can. Be sure to follow the instructions indicated on the paint can.
| Steps | Instructions |
| Step 1 | Prep the paint |
| Step 2 | Dip the paintbrush halfway into the paint can |
| Step 3 | Apply the paint to the baseboard |
| Step 4 | Clean your tools |
Instructions
Prep the Paint
- Depending on whatever paint you use, thin it before using it.
If you use latex paint, just water will thin it, but oil-based paint will require paint thinners.
Whichever paint you choose, ensure you choose the thinner indicated on the can.
- After thinning the paint, pour the paint into a pan and stir the paint thoroughly.
Cover the Bristles Halfway with the Paint
- Gently dip the paint brush halfway into the paint, then tap its bristles against the inner lip of the can to remove any excess dye.
Apply the Paint to the Baseboard
- The best place to begin is at the corner of the room.
Moving horizontally, gently work your way around the perimeter in one-foot sections.
Ensure you apply your strokes in a single direction instead of brushing back and forth.
In case of paint drips, quickly wipe the paint with a wet microfiber rag.
Clean your Painting Tools
After painting, clean the brushes and other items with warm soapy water.
You will need solvents to clean your used materials if you work with oil-based paints.
How to Paint Baseboard with Hardwood Floors Using Rollers
Although debatable, paint rollers offer a speedy and easy option for painting trims. Finishing takes less time, and the result is just as splendid as using a brush.
Items Needed
- Paint
- A smooth to medium, 3’’ roller.
- A paint can.
| Steps | Instructions |
| Step 1 | Prepare the paint |
| Step 2 | Load the paint |
| Step 3 | Roll the paint |
| Step 4 | Smooth the paint. |
Instructions
Prep your Paint
- Ensure you thin the paint before using it; you can either thin it with water, paint thinner, or even lacquer thinner, depending on which type of paint you are using.
Load the Paint
- Pour a sizable amount of paint into a tray and carefully stir the paint.
After stirring, dip the roller into the paint.
Roll the Paint
- This is where the technicality comes in.
Run parallel strips over the baseboard about two times in a row.
This will make sure you have enough coats on the surface.
Smooth the Paint
- This brings us to the final step. Use your roller to run over the strips to give the baseboard a smooth surface.
Using Sprayer to Paint Baseboard with Hardwood Floors
Using a sprayer is the fastest way to paint baseboards or other trims.
The best paint spray option for baseboards is High Volume, Low Pressure (HVLP) sprayers. HVLP works excellently in small areas like baseboards and trims.
To use a sprayer, follow the steps I will show you.
Items Needed
- Spray gun.
- Paint.
- Paint Can.
- Stir stick.
| Steps | Instructions |
| Step 1 | Thin the Paint. |
| Step 2 | Pour the paint into the gun. |
| Step 3 | Adjust the paint and flow pressure. |
| Step 4 | Test the spray gun. |
| Step 5 | Begin spraying. |
Instructions
Thin the Paint
Most spray guns demand that you thin the paint before spraying it.
Thinning the paint will make it easier for the paint to flow easily while spraying.
Load your Gun
After thinning and preparing the paint, the next step is to pour it into the spray gun.
Adjust the Paint and Flow Pressure
Adjust the paint and airflow to a speed you would like to work with.
Test the spray pattern on cardboard to see if you have gotten the proper flow.
Begin to Spray
When you begin to spray, start at an end and proceed to another end.
Ensure you are not swinging your wrist and stay at least 6 inches from the baseboard.
Tip
Ensure you clean the spray gun’s tip periodically, to prevent the paint from clogging when spraying.
Also, make sure you are working in a well-ventilated area.
Using Painting Pad to Paint Baseboard with Hardwood Floors
Of all the options listed, painting pads are the most tempting ones to use to paint baseboards.
Its square shape and size make it apposite for painting baseboards and other trims.
Items Needed
- Paint.
- Painting Pads.
- Paint tray.
| Steps | Instructions |
| Step 1 | Prep your pain. |
| Step 2 | Dip the pad into the paint. |
| Step 3 | Paint on. |
Instructions
Prepare your Paint
Pour your paint into a paint tray and stir the paint if necessary.
Dip Pad into Paint
This is the stage you have to be cautious; dip the pad in the paint to ensure that the sponge is drenched in the paint.
Do not dip the whole pad into the paint; this will make you waste paint. Remove any excess paint by running it over the edge of the tray.
Run the Pad across the Baseboard
Hold the painting pad vertically so that its paint-covered face is directly against the baseboard.
Make 1 ft long strokes as you slide the pad smoothly from left to right.
You can begin by painting the top of the board first, then the body, and lastly, the bottom.
Do this as often as needed until you have entirely covered the baseboard.
General Clean Up
When you are done painting, you want to clean whatever item you used and clean them immediately.
You should also remove the painter’s tape and drop cloths carefully before the paint dries, so it can be easy to use.
If you worked with oil-based paints and thinners, carefully dispose of the items you used following the paint disposal guidelines of your area.
Most paint thinners are flammable; keeping them in the home is unsafe.
Safety Measures
During your project, you should take some safety precautions by
- Wearing gloves.
- Wearing mask.
- Wearing overalls (when using oil-based paint).
- Wear safety goggles.
Most paints contain hazardous volatile organic compounds that can cause skin, lung, and eye irritation.
Final Thoughts
Having perused the options above, ranging from brushes to rollers to sprayers or pads to paint baseboards with hardwood floors.
It is essential to know which is faster and easier.
Using a sprayer is the fastest way to paint baseboards with hardwood floors, but remember that using a spray gun requires constant practice and study.
I hope you find this guide helpful in your job painting project.