Who to Hire to Replace Baseboards in Your Home

Installing or replacing baseboards is a home improvement project that can truly transform the look and feel of your living space. Although baseboard replacement may seem simple, the level of precision and attention to detail required for this project makes hiring a professional a smart move. In this guide, we will delve into why you should consider enlisting the help of a professional for a successful baseboard replacement, who the right experts are for this job, and how you can make an informed decision to help you achieve the desired result.

Benefits of Hiring a Carpenter or Trim Specialist

Carpenters and trim specialists work with wood and trim on a daily basis. This includes extensive experience with measurements, tools, and the ability to make precise adjustments to fit and finish. Carpenters cost between $30 and $200 per hour, depending on their skill level and the complexity of the project.

They bring the highest level of expertise, but not every baseboard job needs their specialized skills. Get bids from a local carpenter near you when:

• The baseboards have extensive damage, like warping, cracking, or rotting

• You’re installing intricate, custom baseboard designs

• Replacing the flooring, too

A carpenter or trim specialist has the equipment and skill to not only replace damaged baseboards but also assess and potentially repair damage surrounding the baseboards. They can also create custom designs for odd room layouts that other types of pros might not have experience with. Finally, if you’re replacing the flooring, a carpenter can ensure the baseboards are correctly installed and adjusted to accommodate any height differences in the new flooring. 

Can I Hire a General Contractor to Replace Baseboards?

General contractors typically handle baseboard replacement when the replacement is part of a larger renovation project. This type of professional manages and organizes specialty trades, such as carpenters, electricians, and plumbers, to complete projects. Contact a local general contractor or two for a quote if you’ll need baseboard replacement along with other upgrades or repairs that include other trades. General contractors cost between $50 to $150 per hour.  

Can I Hire a  Handyman to Replace Baseboards?

A handyman can handle baseboard replacement when replacing or upgrading baseboards with similar styles and designs. If you’re changing the color or simply replacing scratched, dented, and nicked baseboards (not extensive damage), contact a local handyman to get an estimate, knowing that most handymen charge between $50 to $150 per hour or a flat project fee.

How Do Pros Replace Baseboards?

The first step in replacing baseboards is removing the old ones. Your local baseboard installation pro will score the caulk line along the top edge of the baseboard with a utility knife, which will prevent damage to the wall when the old baseboards are removed. They’ll then carefully pry the baseboards away from the wall. Finally, the pro will remove any remaining nails from the wall using a nail puller or pliers.

Once the old baseboards are gone, the pro will install the replacements. They’ll measure and cut the baseboards to size ahead of time, then nail them to the walls at a slight downward angle, which helps keep the baseboards in place while ensuring a clean finish. Once the baseboards are installed, your pro will caulk the top edges of the baseboards and paint or stain them in your desired color.

How Much Does it Cost to Replace Baseboards?

Installing new baseboards costs an average of $1,100, with a total cost range of $800 to $2,250. Your pro may include the cost of removing old baseboards in the installation cost, but if not, expect to pay between $50 and $100 per hour in labor. Your costs will depend on several key factors, including the size of your home, the type of baseboard material and style, and the cost of any necessary repairs.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Baseboard replacement can be a DIY project if you have the time, the necessary tools, and the relevant experience. DIY baseboard installation is best suited to homeowners with some previous DIY experience. The project involves carefully removing old baseboards, measuring the installation area carefully, cutting joints into the new baseboards, and securing the baseboards to the wall using a nail gun. Installing baseboards yourself takes around 48 hours in total.

If this sounds like a lot of work, you might prefer to hire a pro. Professional carpenters, contractors, and handymen have the skills and experience to complete this project quickly and effectively the first time. They also have the right tools and supplies on hand, whereas you might need to buy or rent tools to complete the project yourself. Ultimately, the choice between doing it yourself and hiring a professional will come down to your comfort level, available time, and project budget.