Keep in mind:

• Expect to spend about an hour per room and 24 - 48 hours for curing and drying.
• Materials will likely cost between $55 and $130.
• Use paintable caulk for a seamless finish.
• Always clean the area thoroughly before starting; dirt affects adhesion.

Step 1: Cleaning Baseboards

• Dust the baseboards with a damp rag, paying attention to corners.
• Scrub stubborn dirt with soap and a sponge.
• Vacuum any leftover debris.
• Wipe dry before proceeding.

Tip: Use knee pads or a cushion for comfort while cleaning.

Step 2: Caulking Baseboards

1. Choose the Right Caulk
- Latex-acrylic caulk with silicone is best for flexibility, moisture resistance, and easy painting.

2. Gather Supplies
- Caulk scraper: $5 - $15
- Caulk gun: $4 - $15
- Painter's tape: $7 - $10
- Drop cloth: $2 - $10

3. Steps to Caulk
- Prepare the space: Lay a drop cloth and tape near the baseboards for clean lines.
- Remove old caulk: Use a scraper, moisten with rubbing alcohol if needed.
- Cut caulk tip: At a 45-degree angle for precision.
- Apply caulk: Slowly run a steady bead along the baseboards.
- Smooth the caulk: Use a wet finger or caulk tool for an even finish.
- Remove tape: While caulk is still wet.
- Drying time: Allow at least 24 hours before painting.

Step 3: Painting Baseboards

1. Choose the Right Paint
- Semi-gloss oil-based paint is durable and easy to clean ($15 - $25 per quart).
- Coverage estimate: 1 quart covers ~100 square feet.

2. Gather Supplies
- Angled paintbrush: $2 - $10
- Plastic drop cloth: $2 - $10
- Painter's tape: $3 - $6
- Wood filler: $8 - $12

3. Steps to Paint
- Prepare the space: Tape above caulk lines and protect floors with a drop cloth.
- Fill holes: Use wood filler for smooth baseboards, sanding if needed.
- Prime if necessary: For raw or unprimed wood.
- Paint: Use a small amount on the brush, apply evenly, and maintain a "cwet edge."
- Apply additional coats: Let each coat dry fully before applying the next.
- Remove tape: Only after the paint is completely dry (4 - 24 hours).

FAQs

• What caulk should I use?

• Use silicone-infused acrylic latex caulk for flexibility and easy painting.

• Do I need to remove baseboards to paint them?

• No, but use drop cloths and painter's tape to protect floors and walls.

• Brush or roller?

• Use an angled brush for precision; a small roller can be used for larger areas.

• Drying time before walking near painted baseboards?

• Wait about 4 hours to avoid dust or dirt sticking to the paint.

With patience and proper preparation, your baseboards can look professionally finished!

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