How Much Does it Cost to Install Baseboards?
Typical Range:
$720 - $1,300
Cost data is based on research by HomeAdvisor.
Updated May 5, 2022
Reviewed by Andy Kilborn, Expert Home Building and Remodeling Contributor.Written by HomeAdvisor.
Baseboard Installation Costs
Installing baseboard for a home with a perimeter of 144 feet costs $1,060 on average. Homeowners might pay as low as $720 and as much as $1,300. These costs include both labor and materials. Expect to pay more if you need existing baseboard or molding removed.
“One trick when installing baseboards (if you're painting them) is to apply caulk to the joints as well as where the baseboard meets the wall. After painting, it creates a seamless look,” says Andy Kilborn, owner of Andy's Handyman Service in Des Moines, IA.
Average Cost to Install Baseboard
| Average Cost* | $1,060 |
| High Cost | $1,300 |
| Low Cost | $720 |
*For a house with a perimeter of 144 feet
Baseboard Installation Cost Per Linear Foot
Expect to pay between $5.70 and $8.95 per linear foot for baseboard installation. Contractors usually price installation by the linear foot, and these costs include materials and labor. However, you’ll likely pay at least $15 more if you need debris removal. Most contractors don’t include this in their installation pricing.
Labor Cost to Install Baseboard Trim
The labor cost to install baseboards is $4.90 to $7.75 per linear foot. Baseboard materials are pretty inexpensive (only about $0.80 to $1.20 per linear foot). Labor makes up most of your price.
Talk to Local Baseboard Pros for Custom Quotes
Cost to Replace Baseboards
Depending on how long it takes to replace your baseboards, you could pay anywhere from $70 to $360. Larger houses might exceed the high end price. Smaller homes or homes with only one room with baseboards will have lower costs.
The cost to hire a general contractor for baseboard replacement depends on their rates. Most contractor rates are 10% to 20% of the total project cost.
For a house with a 144-foot perimeter that needs baseboard replacement, the average cost is $1,280 ($1,060 for installation and $220 for removal). With a contractor’s fees, your project total would range from $1,410 to $1,540.
There are some other add-ons that may also impact your price:
Painting a baseboard costs $1 to $5 per linear foot.
The cost to repair drywall is between $280 and $790.
Interior home painting costs range from $970 to $2,760.
Baseboard Costs by Type
| Baseboard Type | Average Cost Per Linear Foot (Material Only) |
|---|---|
| Shoe molding | $0.40 – $0.50 |
| Quarter round molding | $0.60 – $1.00 |
| Base molding | $0.60 – $2.30 |
DIY Baseboard Installation vs. Hiring a Professional
Installing baseboards isn’t difficult, but it’s definitely time-consuming. If you’re considering taking the project on by 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 professional. Contact a baseboard installation specialist near you for an estimate.
FAQs
What’s the difference between baseboard and molding?
Baseboard and molding are often used interchangeably. The only real difference is that the baseboard is at the bottom of the wall, laying flush with the floor. Crown molding (a type of molding) is at the top of the wall, laying flush with the ceiling.
Because it’s higher up, crown molding costs more than installing baseboard (anywhere from $4 to $20 per linear foot).
How does vinyl baseboard installation work?
Installing vinyl baseboard is similar to installing wood baseboard. Professionals measure and cut pieces before attaching them to the wall with a type of wall adhesive.
What does it cost to add baseboard heaters?
The average cost to install a baseboard heater is $780. Homeowners might pay anywhere from $400 to $1,190 to add this type of heat source.
Still Have Questions About Baseboard Installation?
Find Pros Nearby
