Trim & Baseboard Guidelines for Hard Surface Flooring

When installing hard surface flooring—such as laminate, hardwood, or luxury vinyl—there are a few important considerations regarding trim, quarter round, and baseboards. Here's what you need to know to ensure a smooth and professional finish.

Do You Install Quarter Round on Top of Hard Surface Flooring?

Yes. Quarter round is used to cover the expansion gap that must be left between the flooring and the baseboards. This gap allows the flooring to expand and contract with changes in humidity and temperature, preventing buckling or warping over time.

Quarter round sits flush against the hard surface and baseboard, creating a clean, finished look while hiding the necessary gap.

Do I Need to Remove My Baseboards Before Installation?

No, baseboards do not need to be removed. Our installers will place the flooring up to the baseboards, leaving the required expansion gap, and then install quarter round to cover it.

Note: If your new flooring is thicker than your previous floor, your baseboards may appear shorter due to the raised floor height.

Should I Install Baseboards Before or After My Hard Surface Flooring?

If you're installing new baseboards, it’s often best to wait until after the flooring is installed. This allows for:

• Easier alignment with the new floor height.
• Proper spacing for expansion gaps.
• A cleaner overall finish.

If your baseboards are already in place, they can stay. Just be sure to remove any existing quarter round before installation. New quarter round will be installed afterward to cover the expansion gap.

I Purchased White Primed Quarter Round—Do I Need to Paint It?

Yes. “Primed” means the quarter round has a base coat and is ready for painting. You can choose to paint it before or after installation:

• Before installation: Easier to paint all sides, but you’ll need to touch up nail holes and cut edges afterward.
• After installation: Allows for a seamless finish, but requires careful taping to protect your new floors.

Please note: Painting is not included in the installation service.

I Purchased Pine Quarter Round—Do I Need to Stain It?

Yes. Unfinished pine can be stained to match your flooring or baseboards.

• Before install: Easier to stain all sides, but touch-ups will be needed.
• After install: Provides a seamless finish, but requires careful taping to protect your new floors.

Please note: Staining is not included in the installation service.