Fix a Gap between the Baseboard and the Wall

A gap between a baseboard and a wall can be especially bothersome and very noticeable, particularly if it is found in a well-traveled area of the home. Not only is it unattractive, but it creates a space into which things can fall inadvertently. More than likely it was caused by an uneven space along the wall or a slightly warped baseboard. It usually does not mean that the baseboard is pulling away from the wall, so a simple fix is what is required. Unfortunately, you cannot paint over it. That wouldn’t solve the problem anyway. The best thing to do is fill the gap with silicon caulk. It is an inexpensive fix that can be done in practically no time. 

Step 1: Pre-fill the Gap

If it is a sizable gap between the wall and baseboard, caulk will do the job, but as it dries water will evaporate from it. This will cause the bead to shrink up and leave you with a gap, albeit a shallower one. Depending on the size of the gap, then, start by stuffing a thin strip of foam into the gap. This is only necessary if the gap is large. Make sure the foam does not protrude from between the wall and baseboard. It should be situated about 1/8 of an inch below the surface. 

Step 2: Load the Caulking Gun

Load the new tube of silicon caulk into the caulking gun. Pull the ramrod on the gun all the way back and slide the tube’s nozzle through the hole in the front of the gun. Slide the ramrod’s disc into the back of the tube, but don’t apply too much pressure yet. 

Step 3: Cut the Tip Off of the Tube

At a slight angle, cut the tip off the tube of the caulk with the utility knife. It should not be too big or else the bead of caulk will be overwhelming. The opening should be about 1/8-inch wide. Now bring the ramrod up to the back of the tube and squeeze the trigger a few times until the pressure forces some caulk out.

Step 4: Lay the Bead of Caulk

However big the gap is, plan on squeezing out a bead of caulk no longer than 2 feet. Hold the gun at about a 30° angle with the open tip right on top of the gap where you will start. Make sure when you pull the trigger a constant flow of caulk will come out. Apply an even bead of caulk over the gap for 2 feet, sliding the tip of the tube over the gap then let up on the trigger. Some caulking guns will force the tubes to run, wasting material. If this is the case, set the gun upright. 

Step 5: Smooth Out the Bead

Run your bare finger over the bead to smooth it out and blend it in between the baseboard and the wall. Follow this with a moistened sponge that has been squeezed out. Run it along the bead to better blend in the bead. 

Step 6: Remove Excess Caulk

If any excess caulk drips or runs along the wood or the wall, immediately use the putty knife to carefully scrape it away. Use your finger and the sponge to blend in the bead, but use the putty knife to remove the excess. 

Repeat these steps over the entire gap. It is important that the bead of caulk, when applied, extend slightly above the gap so it can be smoothed into it. Again, if the gap is especially big, stuffing a piece of foam inside it before the caulk can help with the shrinking effect after it has dried. Don’t attempt to paint over the caulk until after it has fully cured.