Reuse or replace baseboards?
Floating floors such as LVP and laminate need an expansion gap at the walls. That gap is covered either by removing and reinstalling baseboards, or by leaving baseboards in place and adding shoe molding or quarter round.
Reusing existing baseboards keeps costs down and preserves original trim, which matters in older Portland homes with wide, painted base. Replacing baseboards gives a fresh, clean line and is common when the old base is damaged or the floor height is changing. Tell us your preference so it is in the scope.
Transitions between floors
Wherever the new floor meets another surface (tile, carpet, an existing hardwood floor) or ends at a door, a transition piece finishes the edge.
T-molding
Joins two floors of similar height, often used in doorways between floating floors.
Reducer
Steps down from a thicker floor to a thinner one, such as hardwood to vinyl.
End cap or threshold
Finishes the floor at sliding doors, fireplaces or exterior doors.
Carpet edge
Ties carpet to a hard floor cleanly.
Many floor lines sell color-matched transitions. Matching trim is product-specific, so we check availability before you order.
Door jambs and clearances
To get a clean edge at doors, door casings and jambs are typically undercut so the new floor slides underneath instead of being scribed around them. A thicker floor may also require trimming interior doors so they swing freely. We look at floor height changes at every doorway, including exterior doors and appliance openings such as dishwashers.
Painted trim in older homes
If your home was built before 1978, painted baseboards and casings may contain lead paint. Work that disturbs it is subject to lead-safe practices. Let us know the age of your home when requesting an estimate (see flooring removal).
Baseboards & transitions questions
Are baseboards included in a flooring quote?
Yes, we install baseboards and trim and can include them in your flooring quote. Tell us whether you want to reuse existing baseboards, add shoe molding, or replace them so the quote matches what you expect.
What is the difference between shoe molding and quarter round?
Both are small trim pieces that cover the gap between the floor and baseboard. Shoe molding is slimmer and more upright; quarter round is a true quarter circle.
Why do floating floors need an expansion gap?
Floating floors expand and contract with temperature and humidity. The gap at the walls lets the floor move without buckling; trim covers it.
Can transitions match my new floor?
Many flooring lines sell color-matched transition pieces and stair nosing. Availability varies by product, so check before ordering.