Baseboards are an often-overlooked element in the home, but they can make a big difference in a room’s overall look and feel. If your baseboards are on the shorter side, you may wonder how to make them taller without replacing them entirely. The good news is that there are several simple and cost-effective ways to achieve this goal. In this expert guide, we’ll discuss how to make baseboards taller in 5 methods, including DIY options and professional solutions.
Can You Make Baseboards Taller?
You may have looked at your baseboards and thought, “These could be taller,” but can you actually make them taller? The short answer is yes, you can. Adding height to your baseboards can help give your room a more elegant and sophisticated look.
However, it’s not as simple as just nailing on another piece of wood. You’ll need to carefully plan out the process and make sure it’s done correctly to avoid any damage to your walls or existing baseboards. With the right tools and techniques though, you can give your baseboards the height they deserve and transform the look of your space.
Why Should You Make Baseboards Taller?
With its inherent low profile, the baseboard may seem like nothing more than an afterthought when it comes to decorating your home. However, making those baseboards taller can significantly impact the overall look and feel of any room. It introduces an added layer of elegance and sophistication, and taller baseboards can also make your ceiling appear higher.
It’s a simple yet surprisingly effective trick that can bring your home to the next level of aesthetics. By using taller baseboards, you’re not just adding a decorative touch to your room, you are also investing in enhancing your home’s overall value.
How to Make Baseboards Taller: An Expert Guide
1. Install Crown Molding
One of the easiest ways to make your baseboards appear taller is to install crown molding above them. Crown molding is a decorative trim that runs along the uppermost portion of your walls, often in the transition area where the walls meet the ceiling. Adding crown molding can create the illusion of a higher ceiling and more substantial baseboards. You can purchase crown molding in various styles and materials, from wood and MDF to polyurethane and foam.
To install crown molding, you’ll first need to measure the length of your wall and then cut the molding to size using a miter saw. Once the pieces are cut, you can attach them to the wall using construction adhesive and brad nails. It’s important to ensure that the crown molding is level and securely attached, so consider consulting a professional if you’re not confident in your DIY skills.
2. Add Baseboard Extenders
Another option for making your baseboards taller is to use baseboard extenders. These are narrow strips of wood or plastic that you can attach to the bottom of your existing baseboards to increase their height. Baseboard extenders are easy to install and can be painted to match your existing baseboards for a seamless look.
To install baseboard extenders, you’ll need to remove any existing quarter-round trim at the bottom of your baseboards. Once the quarter-round is gone, you can attach the extenders using construction adhesive and finish nails. Be sure to measure your baseboards carefully before purchasing extenders to ensure that you get the right size and style for your needs.
3. Replace Your Baseboards
If you’re looking for a more drastic solution, you may want to consider replacing your baseboards entirely. This can be a more expensive and time-consuming option, but it can give you the most significant impact in terms of visual appeal. When choosing new baseboards, consider a taller profile and a decorative design that complements your existing decor. You can also look for baseboards made from durable materials like hardwood or PVC, which can withstand wear and tear.
To replace your baseboards, you’ll first need to remove the existing baseboards using a pry bar and hammer. Next, you’ll need to measure and cut the new baseboards to size and attach them to the wall using nails or adhesive. Be sure to caulk any gaps between the baseboards and the wall and paint or stain them to match your existing trim.
4. Add Wall Trim
Another option for making your baseboards appear taller is to install wall trim around the bottom of your walls. You can choose from various decorative options, including panel molding and chair rail molding. These trim pieces will draw the eye upward and create the illusion that your baseboards are higher than they actually are.
To install wall trim, you’ll need to measure and cut the pieces to size before attaching them to the wall using construction adhesive and nails. Be sure to caulk any gaps between the trim, wall, or baseboards for a neat finish.
5. Hire a Professional
If you’re not comfortable with DIY projects or don’t have the time to invest in making your baseboards taller, you can always hire a professional. A carpenter or handyman can help you choose the best method for your needs and can ensure that the job is done correctly and efficiently. They can also advise you on options like crown molding or baseboard extenders, which you may not have considered before.
When hiring a professional, be sure to get multiple quotes and ask for references from past clients. You’ll also want to ensure that the contractor is licensed and insured and has experience working with trim and baseboards.
That’s it! You’ve now learned the top five ways to make your baseboards appear taller. Whether you choose to install crown molding or replace your baseboards entirely, you can be sure that a few simple changes will make a big difference in the look and feel of your home.
5 Considerations Things When You Need to Make Baseboards Taller
1. The height of your baseboards should be proportional to the rest of the room. If you have high ceilings, you’ll likely want taller baseboards to balance out the space. Conversely, if you have lower ceilings, shorter baseboards will help to make the room feel more proportional.
2. The type of wood you use for your baseboards can also affect their height. For example, hardwoods like oak and maple are typically thicker than softer woods like pine. As such, they can add more visual weight to a space and make it appear taller.
3. The finish on your baseboards can also affect their overall look and feel. A high-gloss finish will reflect light and make the baseboards appear taller, while a matte finish will absorb light and make them appear shorter.
4. The style of your baseboards should also be taken into consideration. For example, decorative moldings or trim can add visual interest and make a space appear taller. Conversely, simple and unadorned baseboards will have a more understated look and won’t add any visual height to a room.
5. Finally, remember that baseboards are not just for aesthetics – they also serve an important functional purpose. Baseboards help protect walls from scuffs and scratches and can also help insulate a space against drafts. As such, they should be tall enough to properly serve their purpose but not so tall that they become a trip hazard.
Making baseboards taller can add a touch of style to your space, so make sure you consider all of these considerations when making the decision! With careful planning and thoughtful consideration, you’ll be able to create an attractive look that is just right for your home.
Benefits of Making Baseboards Taller
When it comes to home renovation, even the smallest details can make a big impact. For homeowners looking to add sophistication and elegance to their living spaces, one often overlooked aspect is the height of their baseboards. Taller baseboards not only add visual interest and architectural detail, but they also have practical benefits.
They can help conceal imperfections in flooring and walls and create the illusion of higher ceilings. Additionally, taller baseboards can also improve the overall value of a home. Households can transform their living spaces into luxurious and refined retreats by making this simple change.
Some Common Mistakes People Make When Trying to Make Baseboards Taller
For those looking to upgrade their home’s baseboards, a common mistake is making them taller without considering the rest of the room’s design. While larger baseboards can make a statement, it’s important to complement the current interior style and not overpower the space. Additionally, many DIYers make the mistake of solely focusing on the height of the baseboards without considering their width or thickness.
A disproportioned size can make the room look off-balance and awkward. Therefore, before embarking on a baseboard renovation project, it’s crucial to research, seek professional advice, and consider the room’s overall aesthetic before making any alterations.
Conclusion
Making your baseboards taller is a simple way to improve your home’s overall look and feel. Whether you install crown molding, baseboard extenders, or replace your baseboards entirely, multiple options are available to help you achieve your goals. By following the above tips and tricks, you can create a more custom look while staying on budget and making smart design choices.
With a little effort and creativity, your baseboards can become a stylish element that ties your space together cohesively. Thanks for reading our post about how to make baseboards taller.