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How to Paint Trim and Baseboards

Refresh your trim, baseboards, and crown molding with a clean, professional finish

Intermediate2-4 hours (per room)$25–$758 steps3 min read
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What You'll Need

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Tools

Angled brush (2-inch)

Angled sash brush works best

Amazon

Painter's tape

Amazon

Drop cloths

Amazon

Sandpaper

120-150 grit

Amazon

Tack cloth

For removing sanding dust

Amazon

Putty knife

Amazon

Materials

Semi-gloss or gloss paint

Trim paint is more durable

$30-$50 per quart

Amazon

Primer(optional)

If bare wood or heavy stains

$15-$25 per quart

Amazon

Wood filler(optional)

For dents and holes

$5-$10

Amazon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Clean the trim

15-20 minutes

Wipe down all trim with a damp cloth to remove dust, dirt, and grease. For kitchen areas, use a degreaser. Let dry completely.

Pro Tip

Pay special attention to the top edges of baseboards where dust accumulates.

2

Repair any damage

20-30 minutes

Fill dents, gouges, and nail holes with wood filler. Let dry and sand smooth. Caulk any gaps between trim and wall.

3

Sand the surface

20-30 minutes

Lightly sand all trim with 120-150 grit sandpaper to help paint adhesion. This is essential for glossy surfaces. Wipe with a tack cloth to remove dust.

Pro Tip

You're not removing paint, just scuffing the surface. A few passes is enough.

4

Apply painter's tape

15-20 minutes

Tape along the wall edge adjacent to trim and on flooring next to baseboards. Press firmly on the trim-side edge.

Pro Tip

For baseboards, you can also slide a wide putty knife along the floor as a shield instead of taping.

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5

Prime if needed

30-60 minutes including dry time

Apply primer to bare wood, repaired areas, or if the existing finish is very dark. Let dry per label instructions.

6

Apply first coat of paint

45-90 minutes

Load brush about 1/3 up the bristles. Apply paint with long, smooth strokes following the wood grain. Don't overwork the paint.

Pro Tip

Start at a corner and work your way around. Keep a wet edge to avoid lap marks.

7

Apply second coat

45-90 minutes

Wait for first coat to dry (usually 2-4 hours). Lightly sand any rough spots with fine sandpaper. Apply second coat with smooth, even strokes.

Pro Tip

Two thin coats always look better than one thick coat.

8

Remove tape and touch up

15 minutes

Remove tape while paint is still slightly tacky. Touch up any spots where paint bled through. Allow 24 hours before moving furniture against baseboards.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping the sanding step (paint won't adhere well)
  • Using flat paint instead of semi-gloss (won't hold up to cleaning)
  • Applying paint too thick (causes drips and brush marks)
  • Not letting coats dry fully between applications
  • Painting in direct sunlight or high heat (dries too fast)

Safety Warnings

  • Ensure good ventilation
  • Wear knee pads when painting baseboards

When to Call a Professional

For extensive trim replacement, lead paint situations, or intricate crown molding with detailed profiles.

Find a local painter on Thumbtack

Have a bigger project in mind? Tell us what you need and help us decide what to build next.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is it to paint trim and baseboards?
This project is rated as intermediate difficulty. Some DIY experience is helpful, but detailed instructions make this achievable for most homeowners. It typically takes 2-4 hours (per room) to complete.
How much does it cost to paint trim and baseboards?
The estimated cost for materials is $25–$75. This doesn't include tools you may need to purchase. Many of the tools required are common household items you may already own.
What tools do I need to paint trim and baseboards?
You'll need: Angled brush (2-inch), Painter's tape, Drop cloths, Sandpaper, Tack cloth, Putty knife.
How long does it take to paint trim and baseboards?
This project typically takes 2-4 hours (per room). The actual time depends on your experience level, the specific conditions of your home, and whether you encounter any complications. It's broken into 8 steps for easy tracking.
What are common mistakes when trying to paint trim and baseboards?
The most common mistakes include: Skipping the sanding step (paint won't adhere well). Using flat paint instead of semi-gloss (won't hold up to cleaning). Applying paint too thick (causes drips and brush marks). Following our step-by-step guide will help you avoid these issues.
Should I hire a professional to paint trim and baseboards?
For extensive trim replacement, lead paint situations, or intricate crown molding with detailed profiles.

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Project Overview

Difficulty
Intermediate
Time
2-4 hours (per room)
Est. Cost
$25–$75
Tools
6 items
Materials
3 items
Steps
8
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