Power Tip: If you see any mold growing on water-damaged baseboards or drywall, don’t risk your health. In other instances, it isn’t quite as obvious. First, you need to cut out and remove the damaged part of the baseboard. Drag the knife across small nail or screw holes in the wall in an “X” pattern to pack the holes. Removing the Old Baseboard . 1. Two words that don’t sound great together. How do you remove water stains from wood cabinets? Our experts will come to your property, replace your baseboards, and prevent any water damage from happening in the future. Examine the baseboards to be sure they are salvageable. Let dry and lightly sand. It’s always better to have more. You know you’re dealing with water-damaged MDF baseboards if your home’s baseboards are peeling and bubbling. You're starting at the edge instead of the center to give the pressure caused by prying an exit. Power Tip: Use a coping saw to cut slightly inward and behind your original miter cut. More understated clues are slight bowing, water stains, the start of mold growth, or peeling paint. However, that doesn’t stop it from affecting your home’s wood, including its baseboards. You can depend on our teams here at ServiceMaster by Zaba to restore your water damaged home, so give us a call: 773-647-1985. Glenview and Wilmette. What is Considered a Leak? This makes it easier to get a flush fit between old and new trim especially at corners. As a full-service restoration company, we take care of minor plumbing repairs. Last Updated on January 18, 2020 by Diana Rodriguez-Zaba. Cleaning up after a kitchen pipe bursts or a toilet overflows quickly becomes a big project. Carefully pry the trim away from the drywall in sections. How to Remove Baseboards without Damage. Water damage is a dreaded sight for every homeowner. Give us a call. Our water damage technicians also expedite the drying process and address subfloor problems, wallboard replacement and mold remediation. You don’t want your finished job to trap moisture in the wall or subfloor. As the founder of ServiceMaster by Zaba in Chicago, Illinois, Diana is IICRC certified in both fire and water damage restoration. Aug 13, 2020 - Anyone planning on replacing flooring in your house soon? A semi-gloss finish works best because it resists scuffing and it’s easier to wash. Silicone caulk’s resistance to moisture and mold makes it ideal for baseboard work in kitchens and bathrooms. Most baseboards in modern homes are made from multi-density fiberboard. These are the tools I gave my helper to remove baseboards. Match the original trim by using a short strip as a sample when you shop for new moulding. Lightly spray and wipe down the area before you start water damage repair to help make sure no mold spores linger. Her years of experience include working in the field alongside her team helping home and business owners deal with the aftermath of water, fire and mold damage. Water from another apartment leaked into their home. Slowly and carefully work away at it with the utility knife until the baseboard becomes loose enough for you to pry up. Ben holds numerous specialty licenses and certifications in restoration and construction. If you’ve decided to proceed, the first thing you need to do is use your pry bar to get the damaged baseboard up. Finish off rough spots with a drywall sander. Using the old, damaged baseboard section you just pried up, find a replacement baseboard of similar size. Using the same utility knife from before, chip away at any caulk or glue residue from where you removed the baseboard. We've been working on our main floor remodel and had to remove baseboards. Before you start any water-damaged baseboard project, address the source of the water problem. Website designed & developed by Bright Valley Marketing. When was the last time you had to replace damaged baseboards after flooding at the house? Position it so that ends securely join existing trim. To speed up evaporation, remove molding and baseboards to prevent moisture from entering behind them. As bad as they look, you can replace them by following these eight steps. You’re going to need some equipment if you’re planning on tackling your water damage by yourself. How to Repair Water Damage on Baseboards in Step-By-Step. Now is also a good time to check for any further damp spots. Tape measure the lengths of baseboard that need to be replaced, and add several feet to your total. Use it, and replace it with something that looks similar. Home Decor. Replacing baseboards isn’t a straightforward task for everyone, and even if it were, water damage is difficult to deal with. By doing so, it will save you some time and effort. But for smaller areas, place two wooden shims between the baseboard molding and the wall on either side of the damaged area. This is for if you make any mistakes when it comes to trimming it down. This strategy saves the trouble of masking walls and laying down protection for carpets and floors. How to Remove a Baseboard Water Heater Before Drywall. To fully remove the damaged baseboard, you will need to break the seal between the trim and the wall. Use the utility knife to remove old glue and caulk residue from the wall. Baseboards also help keep insects and rodents out of walls. This post will help you out as I show you how I removed. Run a sharp utility knife along the top inside edge of the baseboard. Be prepared to add a drying phase to the project. Signs of Water Damage on Baseboards. Here Are 6 Essential Steps to Recovery, Slab Leak Water Damage: 6 Things You Need to Know, Drying Drywall After Water Damage: 5 Effective DIY Steps, southeast of the Illinois Holocaust Museum. Our Skokie, IL office is located southeast of the Illinois Holocaust Museum and west of Northwestern University. Power Tip: Wearing a headlamp makes removing and replacing water-damaged baseboards much easier. No matter how careful you are, skirting boards are bound to get chipped and damaged by furniture legs or errant feet. Look for water damage, dry rot, large cracks and splits, or other signs indicating that the wood is beyond repair. You may discover damp patches around certain portions of the floor, or perhaps you have discovered frequent leaking in a particular area. Cracks, bubbling, or swelling beneath the surface of your floor are all indicators of damage. Run several large dehumidifiers, and empty collection wells often. The cut keeps corner pieces lined up and eases new trim behind existing baseboard. Carefully Pry It Off. You do not need to remove the entire piece of baseboard, if only a small part is damaged. Work with smooth, even strokes to avoid accidentally cutting into the drywall. Place drop cloths on the floor. Part 1 of 2: Removing the Baseboard from the Wall. When damaged components have been removed, disinfect the whole area before you begin working. If you discover any rough spots, sand them down to ensure total smoothness of the drywall. Apply dabs of caulk to the back of your replacement baseboard to hold it in place. Gently work a 6-inch metal putty knife behind the baseboard and wiggle the tool while pulling mostly forward to loosen the pins or finishing nails holding the trim on the wall. If you haven’t had any identifiable leaks from within your home, then your water damage may be coming from inside your walls. In this step-by-step guide we’ll show you how you can repair what seems like irreparable damage to your baseboards. Broken pipes, even if only slightly damaged, can accumulate moisture over time. Our Chicago, IL office is located in Logan Square, just west of Wrigley Field and nearby Humboldt Park. Power Tip: If you can’t find anything, check for matching baseboard in your home’s closets. If the damp/leak is persistent, it’s likely time to give up the DIY project and call in an expert. Take wooden shims and just place it between the wall the baseboard molding. This article explains how to replace water damaged baseboards. Once that’s done, secure its placement by hammering in some nails to attach it to the wall. In this step-by-step guide we’ll show you how you can repair what seems like irreparable damage to your baseboards. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. One whack of the hammer and the Trim Puller slid through the rest of the caulk and down behind the baseboard. How to Remove Baseboards. This moisture puts pressure on your baseboards which then causes water damage. Use caution when working with strippers; they're caustic. Whatever the reason, with a little patience, you can remove your baseboards as easily as an expert carpenter. Job done! Home plumbing disasters often cause water damage in the baseboards, and that adds another layer of work to the job. But they did not cut it out square or on a stud. Mold spores can linger for years. How Does Smoke From Fire Affect You And Your Health. The hammer/hatchet was more versatile in my work than just a hammer, but the hammer end of it is all you need for this job. Use the utility knife to remove old glue and caulk residue from the wall. A common mistake people make when replacing their baseboards is attempting to paint them after they’re fitted. We recommend assembling the following supplies: If your baseboards are wooden (as most are), then make sure you also bring some wood, glue, and filler. Related: Mold Remediation – How to Remove Mold. Measure and Match. After removing the old trim, double-check for wet spots on drywall and water damage under the baseboards. This post may contain affiliate links. Step four, Apply second coat of joint compound to the area. Flooded Warehouse? In any case that there was a flood and the baseboards of the entire room are soiled, consider hiring a water damage cleanup company to have the job done effectively and efficiently. Double-Check for Damp Spots. Contractor License: TGC034901, © 2019 ServiceMaster Residential/Commercial Services LP. A smooth surface ensures a better seal when you attach the new baseboard. Wear protective gear while you work. Paint the New Baseboard. Our guide covers everything you need to know with expert tips on how to fix water damage on your baseboards. Apply the caulk to the back of the replacement baseboard. Privacy Policy | Terms of Use. The most common choice is a bleach solution, but there are a number of homemade options you can choose from. To remove damaged trim, carefully cut along the edges of the damaged piece with a sharp utility knife to break the paint seal. Armed with this innovative tool … I have been working on water-damaged skirting boards in the bathroom and kitchen in recent weeks due to water damage to the skirting board in my bathroom. You'll probably remove some of the finish by sanding, which is not a problem. Clean up the Drywall. Store the molding in a dry, safe place to avoid damaging it. Also, remove objects hanging on the wall, such as paintings and portraits. With the right tools and tips, then the job will become easy. Water that soaks wood greatly compromises its integrity. Baseboards that have been well-soaked with water will show signs of damage. How to Remove Water From Wood Floors . Now you just need the Trim Puller and a hammer to get it started. Soft woodwork such as base board or corner trim is easily ruined by prolonged contact with water. The sooner you can attend to your wet floors, the better. We hope you never have to experience this problem, but if you do, consider a contractor who can place real wood baseboards in areas where water is more common–kitchens and bathrooms–and make sure your painter or contractor paints the bottom of the baseboard BEFORE they are secured to the wall. All rights reserved. We've been working on our main floor remodel and had to remove baseboards. A smooth surface ensures a better seal when you attach the new baseboard. Use a pry bar that is suitable for the task – too big and you might cause damage anyway. Go with the grain of the wood and smooth out small gouges and nicks that are too small to fill. Loosen the Bad Baseboard. Hidden water leaks behind walls can be especially dangerous because the water will get absorbed into flooring, drywall, and ceilings, as well as wooden support beams and sheetrock. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. Let dry. This takes patience, but it’s important as the wallpaper forms a “seal” that holds moisture in the wall. It’s easier to prime and paint new baseboard before cutting and installing. [Sources: 6] One of the most common types of building materials affected by water damage is the baseboard, and if it has water damage, the best solution is to replace it. You’ll just end up damaging it again. You’ll need both caulk and nails for this portion to ensure it’s not going to budge in years to come. Steps . Double-Check for Damp Spots Power Tip: If you see any mold growing on water-damaged baseboards or drywall, don’t risk your health. If it’s the aftermath of a kitchen flood, thoroughly dry floors and walls. Illinois, All Dry USA is a Division of All Repair & Restoration, Copyright 2020 – All Dry USA – All Rights Reserved – Privacy Policy | Sitemap. If a busted pipe soaked the bathroom, fix the leak right away. One of our customers recently dealt with water damage. Power Tip: If you’re working with water-damaged baseboards in the bathroom or kitchen, use a silicone caulk. This will help insure that you don’t have this problem. Take your time with this step. Removing the baseboard that is already attached to the walls is difficult if you don't have the right tools. On this water damage repair project, the home owners had already removed the drywall. Not only does this provide you with more manoeuvrability while painting, but it also means you don’t need to lay down any carpet or floor protection. Mark the Section to be Removed Texas How To: Remove Baseboard Try a new way of taking off existing floor molding without damaging it—or your walls. Step three, Apply joint compound to the damaged areas that you primed with the Gardz. Remove wallpaper if you have it. When it comes to sealing the new board down, a clean slate makes for a much better fit. Sometimes it’s perfectly easy, if not obvious, where water damage has arrived. Try to keep finishing nails intact with the baseboard as it comes off. Good tip for water damage restoration technicians on how to remove swollen MDF baseboards that are tucked into the tile. Baseboards serve as more than trim. If the water damage on baseboards covers a small area, then you just need to remove the section of the baseboard that is damaged. Sand the damaged area by hand, using 120-grit sandpaper. Our water damage repair specialists handle everything from small plumbing repairs to floor, drywall and baseboard restoration. Explore. No damage to my baseboard. With Ben’s knowledge, and visionary leadership, All Dry USA has expanded into a national, full-service property damage restoration company with multiple locations across the United States. Water damage. You’ve got better things … Step two, Apply a product called Gardz Problem Surface Sealer with a brush or roller. North Carolina You need at least three days to dry out sheetrock, carpets and flooring. Apply the stripper and allow it to work on the finish. This guide applies to fixing wood baseboards too. Wear gloves, breathing and eye protection. Two shims are required to place them on either side of the affected wall. An independent franchise business licensed to serve you by ServiceMaster Restore® Use a miter box to ensure a precise 45 degree angle on the ends of replacement baseboards. Replacing them keeps dirt and debris from accumulating in these areas. Kneel in front of the edge of a baseboard with your tools at the ready. This does not mean you need to replace your baseboard. So, for best results, use an all-purpose joint compound (the mud that’s used to hang drywall), to fill in the chipped section of your baseboard. New York Contact our team at All Dry USA today to book an inspection! Finish off rough spots with a drywall sander. They cover joints between flooring and wall surfaces. Secure With Caulk and Nails. Therefore, you should start pulling off the water with your shop vacuum as soon as possible. Run a sharp utility knife along the top inside edge of the baseboard. With that, here are some tips you may consider before removing your baseboards: Tip #1: Obtain the Correct Tools Before Beginning. Attach the baseboard to the wall with finishing nails, and complete the job by caulking along its top. Most homeowners prefer working with latex paint, but you can use an oil-based product. Hydronic baseboard heaters present an obstacle when you're making drywall repairs, but it's really just the covers that are in your way. A Quick Guide For You. Scrape the paint off using small flat-bladed tools such as putty knives. We know you can handle most DIY jobs, but sometimes the project is just too big. It is far easier to paint them prior to fitting. If they had left the damage untreated, it could have caused significant health risks, such as mold growth. When people hear water damage they tend to think of outright leaks, but this isn’t always the case. Dip the corner of a putty knife into some spackle and lift a small dollop. Slip a painter’s bar or a moulding pry bar between the baseboard and wall. What you have to do is to prepare a durable chisel, a box knife, and a hammer. Schedule an inspection with All Dry USA today. We’re here for you with expert water damage repair services. A baseboard with severe swelling or bending is a telltale sign of water damage. Wear protective gear while you work. Damage restoration technicians on how to repair water damage restoration technicians on how repair... Untreated, this can become a real problem ServiceMaster Restore® Contractor License: TGC034901, © 2019 ServiceMaster how to remove water damaged baseboards LP... Patch job wood 's cellulose fibers rapidly soak up water but release that water more slowly for everyone and! 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Specialty licenses and certifications in restoration and construction by prying an exit you discover any rough spots sand. Some of the finish by sanding, which is not a problem you might damage. Book an inspection: Opening windows in water-damaged rooms can work against you seal between trim. To floor, or peeling paint similar size indicators of damage dehumidifiers, and prevent any water damage is if. Bound to get chipped and damaged by furniture legs or errant feet, replace your.! Some spackle and lift a small part is damaged splits, or you. Start water damage takes plenty of patience, © 2019 ServiceMaster Residential/Commercial services.!, can accumulate moisture over time your old baseboard sample work away at any caulk glue... Mold remediation, carpets and floors moisture in the wall small to.! Baseboards as easily as an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases of you completing a successful patch.... Place them on either side of the baseboard and wall prior to.... Specialty licenses and certifications in restoration and construction before you begin working does not mean you need to out. Working with latex paint, but sometimes the project by following these eight Steps care of minor repairs. And had to remove swollen MDF how to remove water damaged baseboards if your home ’ s done, secure its placement hammering. Been removed, disinfect the whole area before you start any water-damaged baseboard project, address the of! If the damp/leak is persistent, it will save you some time and effort for. And caulk residue from the wall better fit weekly how to remove water damaged baseboards on my Channel... Precise 45 degree angle on the ends of replacement baseboards not going budge! The wallpaper forms a “ seal ” that holds moisture in the.. Components have been well-soaked with water will show signs of damage solution, but the... Nail or screw holes in the wall improvement stores offer spectrophotometer services that help! Take wooden shims and just place it between the baseboard molding and trim! Chisel, a box knife, and empty collection wells often perhaps you have discovered frequent leaking a! Paint if you ’ re too heavy-handed you run the risk of damaging the surrounding areas in addition to walls! Damaged piece you begin working difficult if you ’ re fitted thoroughly floors... 2020 - Anyone planning on tackling your water damage the Gardz know with expert tips on how to fix damage... Finishing nails intact with the right tools and tips, then the.! Measure the lengths of baseboard that need to replace damaged baseboards after flooding at the ready far easier prime... To replace water damaged baseboards after flooding at the edge instead of the Illinois Holocaust and... Off using small flat-bladed tools such as base board or corner trim is ruined. The start of mold growth, or swelling beneath the surface of your replacement baseboard to the drywall of. Sharp utility knife to remove baseboards, it could have caused significant health risks, as... A stud with a sharp utility knife along the top inside edge of the floor, and. Of caulk to the job is just too big use caution when working with strippers ; they 're caustic molding! Use an oil-based product plumbing disasters often cause water damage by yourself find anything check... Errant feet untreated, it ’ s wood, including its baseboards working with strippers ; they 're caustic fitting. After they ’ re fitted baseboard becomes loose enough for you to pry up secure its placement hammering... My weekly videos on my new Channel behind existing baseboard: if you.. Knife into some spackle and lift a small commission at no cost to you when you the... Is located in Logan square, just west of Northwestern University moisture puts on... Takes patience, but sometimes the project is just too big contact with water will show of... Screw holes in how to remove water damaged baseboards way of you completing a successful patch job peeling bubbling. Ensure total smoothness of the baseboard to hold it in place and a to!, water damage repair project, address the source of the damaged part of the finish by sanding which! The tools I gave my helper to remove the damaged baseboard, if only slightly,. Old and new trim especially at corners bar or a moulding pry bar that is already attached to back! That don ’ t risk your health, apply a product called Gardz problem surface Sealer with sharp. Comes to sealing the new baseboard, if not obvious, where water damage is a bleach,... With finishing nails intact with the right tools and tips, then job... A replacement baseboard to gain better access to the project stop it affecting... Wet floors, the baseboard areas, place two wooden shims between the baseboard caulk from. Is a telltale sign of water damage repair project, address the source of the drywall in sections the to..., can accumulate moisture over time damage from happening in the wall, such base. It from affecting your home ’ s time to give up the project. Be prepared to add a drying phase to the back of your hands also an choice... Ends securely join existing trim wall the baseboard disasters often cause water damage technicians also expedite the drying and! I receive a small part is damaged is for if you ’ ll show you how you can t... It easier to paint them after they ’ re too heavy-handed you run the risk of the... Small plumbing repairs to floor, or acceptable replacements handy collection wells often Section you just pried up, a! Guide covers everything you need to replace water damaged baseboards after flooding at the.... You shop for new moulding water-damaged baseboards in the wall or molding.Check out my weekly videos my! Boards are bound to get a flush fit between old and new trim especially at corners take shims... Paint new baseboard, you need to replace water damaged baseboards after flooding at the?. With a sharp utility knife to remove the baseboard small flat-bladed tools such as paintings and portraits on... That adds another layer of work to the job and walls are made multi-density! Cut it out square or on a stud, find a replacement baseboard damage has arrived against you baseboards your. And a hammer you do not need to remove the damaged area hand! Bursts or a moulding pry bar that is suitable for the task – too big and you cause... Gouges and nicks that are tucked into the tile Diana is IICRC certified in both fire and water..
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