Baseboard removal doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the right materials and knowledge, you can remove baseboards without damaging them or the walls. This way, you can restore the look of your existing baseboards and then re-install them for a cost-effective interior upgrade, or, you can reuse them for another woodworking or crafts project. If you are installing new floors, you will also be required to remove your baseboards, so preventing damage during the process will allow you to reuse them and save money.

In the past, removing baseboard without damaging them was a very difficult job to do. It required a lot of hard work, time, money, and patience to get the job done right; and even then it wasn’t always successful. But with the advancements of tools and materials available today, you can get professional-grade results in a convenient time frame! Continue reading to learn how you can remove baseboards without causing them damage, as well as, tips for expert results.

What to Get:

  • Trim Puller Tool
  • Mallet or Hammer
  • Caulk Remover (depending)
  • Side-Cutting Pliers (optional)
  • 6″ Utility Knife
  • Utility Gloves

Preparation

One of the most important tools to acquire for a baseboard removal job is a trim puller. This ergonomic tool is what makes baseboard removal much easier than it was years ago. Before trim pullers, you would have to insert a putty knife in between the trim and the wall and twist back and forth in order to loosen the boards. With a trim puller, the specially-designed center wedge allows for simple and quick extraction, and prevents wall and baseboard damage. This saves loads of time and money, not to mention stress.

If your baseboard seams are caulked, then you will need to get caulk remover product. But if they are sealed with standard latex paint, you will only need your utility knife. Gloves are optional but help to prevent splinters, blisters, and sores. Side-cut pliers are optional as well, but very helpful for removing leftover pins and nails in walls after the baseboards are removed. If you have a hammer, the backside will work just as well.

Step 1

If your walls and baseboards are sealed with latex paint, start by using your utility knife to cut along the seam where the baseboards meet the wall to release them from their seal. Be sure to stay along the seam to prevent pulling off any wall color.

Note: If your baseboard and wall seams are sealed with caulk, you will need to apply a line of caulk remover instead. Follow the instructions on the label. Then move onto the next step.

Step 2

Starting at one end of a strip of baseboard, place the trim puller front-faced against the wall, with the sharp edge along the baseboard seam.

Step 3

Hold the trim puller with one hand, and with the other hand, strike the top of it with your hammer or mallet. This should drive the sharpened edge in between the trim and wall. You will notice that the center wedge of the trim puller (the part that sticks out in the middle) automatically separates the baseboard from the wall.

Step 4

Gently pull the trim away from the wall with your puller tool. Then, continue step 3, moving along the baseboard in 1 foot increments until you reach the end of the strip.

Step 5

Remove any leftover pins or nails with your side-cutting pliers or the back part of your hammer.

Professional Home Remodeling

If you are not comfortable with handyman jobs such as this, trust a professional instead! You will be surprised to see just how inexpensive it is to hire a general contractor for baseboard removal, flooring installation, and more. For the best results that come insured, always choose professional home remodeling services.