Baseboards, Casings and Doors: The Details That Finish a Room
Trim is a small part of the budget with a big effect on how finished a room feels. Here’s how to choose profiles, sizes and doors.
New trim and doors are one of the most cost-effective ways to change how a home feels. They frame every wall and opening — and they are noticed most when they are done poorly.
Choosing baseboards
Taller baseboards (5 inches or more) suit higher ceilings and modern spaces; shorter profiles work in compact rooms. Simple, square profiles are easy to keep clean and match most styles.
Door casings
Casings should feel in proportion to the baseboard. Many homes use the same profile family for both, with casings slightly narrower than the base.
Prehung or slab doors?
- Prehung: the door comes mounted in a new frame. Best when frames are damaged or out of square.
- Slab: just the door, fitted to your existing frame and hinges. Good when frames are in good shape.
Older homes
Floors and walls in older homes are rarely straight. Good finish carpentry means scribing trim to follow the floor and adjusting joints so gaps don’t show — work that takes time but makes the difference.
Questions & answers
Is painting new trim included?
It can be. Your estimate will state whether filling, caulking and painting are included.
