Baseboard Installation Cost Factors
The price of baseboard installation depends on a few different factors, including the finish you want and whether you're replacing existing baseboards or installing new. Additionally, when replacing baseboards, you may find the wall or floor needs repairs, too, which can increase the project price.
Removal and Disposal
For the average property with a 144-foot perimeter, expect to pay $220 for removing the old baseboards, including the cost of removing the waste and debris. Expect to pay around $20 for a service to come and collect it for you if the disposal isn't included in the cost,
Painting
If the baseboards you choose are unfinished, you'll need to stain or paint them. If your local handyperson does the painting at the same time as the installation, expect to pay an additional $1 to $5 per square foot. However, if you plan to paint your baseboards as part of a wider home painting project, it may make more sense to hire a local painter instead.
Floor and Wall Repairs
It's not uncommon for a contractor to find problems with your walls or floors while removing or installing baseboards. For example, if you have evidence of moisture damage, you may need new drywall. Replacing drywall costs $2.40 to $4 per square foot. Other wall repairs cost $360 to $1,240.
If your flooring is buckled, torn, or otherwise damaged, you may want to have new flooring laid before the baseboards go on. Flooring installation costs $3 to $22 per square foot. Alternatively, you can save money by having the floor repaired instead of replaced. Floor repair costs $200 to $580. While having a new baseboard, you may want to pay the price of repairing trim elsewhere in the room or installing new trim to give the whole space a facelift.
DIY Baseboard Installation vs. Hiring a Professional
Installing baseboards isn’t difficult, but it’s time-consuming. If you’re considering taking the project on yourself, you’ll need the proper tools to measure, cut, and attach the baseboard. Trying to do a DIY replacement could result in having to repair drywall, adding more time and money to your project.
Additionally, if your floors are not level you’ll have a lot more work cut out for you. Save yourself time (and potentially even money) by hiring a baseboard installation specialist near you.