Baseboard & Trim Styles
Flooring isn't finished until the trim is installed. Baseboards hide the expansion gap required for floating floors, but they also define the architectural style of a room. From sleek modern lines to ornate colonial curves, here is how to choose the right profile.
Popular Profiles
Modern / Square
Clean, sharp edges. Usually 4" to 6" high. Perfect for contemporary homes.
Colonial / Ogee
Classic curves at the top. Fits traditional and ranch-style homes.
Craftsman
Flat face with a simple reveal at the top. Sturdy and historic look.
Material Options
MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
The industry standard for painted trim. It comes pre-primed, is affordable, and doesn't warp. Not suitable for wet areas (bathrooms) unless sealed well.
Finger-Joint Pine
Real wood pieces joined together. Stronger than MDF and more water-resistant. Good for high-traffic areas.
Polystyrene
Plastic-based. 100% waterproof and rot-proof. Essential for bathrooms and laundry rooms.
To Shoe or Not to Shoe?
Shoe molding (or quarter round) is a small strip added to the bottom of the baseboard.
- Yes: If you are keeping existing baseboards and installing new floors (to cover the new gap).
- No: If you are installing new baseboards. We prefer to scribe the baseboard to the floor for a cleaner, modern look without the extra strip.
Trim FAQs
What height should I choose?
A general rule is 7% of your ceiling height. For 8ft ceilings, 3-5 inch baseboards look best. For high ceilings, go for 5-7 inches to keep the scale balanced.
Do you caulk and paint?
We fill nail holes and caulk the top gap for a seamless finish. We are flooring installers, not painters, but we leave the trim ready for final paint touch-ups.
Still unsure which floor is right for you?
Every home in Southern California is unique. Get a professional opinion from Alan Zurita regarding your specific subfloor, lifestyle, and budget.