Shoe molding gives your room a nice finish and protects the seams where it meets the floor. But when building your home, one of the questions you might have is whether you can install baseboards without shoe molding.
You should install baseboards with shoe molding as it helps cover the gap between the floor and trim. Also, if you expect a distinctive look, you’ve got to include it with the baseboard. The shoe molding will also prevent dirt buildup and insects from hiding below the trim.
Read on and learn more about shoe molding and baseboards.
Alternative To Shoe Molding
When installing baseboards, you might opt to try out something different from shoe molding. This means you need to look for a shoe molding alternative. The perfect alternative to go for is;
Quarter Round
A quarter-round molding works the same way shoe molding does. The quarter round will give your room a finished look and make it attractive because of the beautiful styles. It also seals the gaps and imperfections on the baseboard or floor.
But it has a different shape from shoe molding. The quarter round is like a quarter of a circle and is available in different sizes. Since the curved edge is smooth and defined, making your surfaces look attractive.
Quarter round comes in various materials like wood, laminate, or concrete, just as shoe molding. But most homeowners like wood as it looks unique and is top quality.
What Looks Better Quarter Round or Shoe Molding?
Quarter round and shoe molding perform the same function, the only difference between them being their shape, size, and styling. So, when looking for a better choice between the two, you should look at their difference to reach a decision.
If you like covering the gaps on the floor with a more curved and striking material, go for quarter-round molding. On the other hand, shoe molding is a better choice if you are looking for stylish yet precise molding. However, most trim carpenters and homeowners like shoe molding because it’s taller and narrower, giving a sleek look.
Should Baseboard Match Trim or Floor?
The decision to do this depends on your preference and how you want the final look to come out. This is because the baseboard can match the trim or the floors, but each has pros and cons.
When you paint the baseboard and floor or trim different colors, it can create unnecessary visual contrast or make it unique.
When you decide to match the baseboards and trim or floor, you have to consider the following;
Your Home Style
Everyone has a preferred style for their home, which they achieve through colors and various elements. Matching colors within the house will create a striking, harmonious look. However, when it’s mismatched, it will look unfinished or disjointed.
For example, if you’re working to achieve a rustic floor at home, a darker color for the baseboard will help you achieve this style easily.
Color Scheme
You also need to look at the color scheme of the room you want to install the baseboards. It will guide you when choosing the baseboard’s color and avoid interfering with the look of the given area. For example, if the room has warmer tones, use it to determine the baseboard colors. A neutral baseboard will match a warm-toned room, while a brighter baseboard fits a cool-toned room.
Theme
You must also consider your home theme when matching the floors and baseboards. To create a contrast on the surfaces, you have to play with the colors. For example, if you have dull floors using bold baseboards will create a contrast.
However, if you want a relaxed feel light colored baseboards will blend well with dark floors. When you want to create a home theme, let the colors and existing themes complement each other.
What Are the Effects of Matching Baseboard and Floor?
When you decide to match the baseboards and floor, know that it has its advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of Matching Baseboard and Floor
The advantages include;
- It helps make a smaller room look bigger
- It also enables you to highlight or makes other design elements the focal point in the room.
Disadvantages of Matching Baseboard and Floor
- It’s hard to choose and maintain a style for the floor and the baseboards
- It forces you to work with consistent and complimenting colors throughout the room
- It can make it challenging to make repairs on the floor or baseboard as it will be visible.
Bottom Line
Shoe molding will make your baseboard attractive and seal gaps that can hide dirt around the floor. For this reason, you need to install a baseboard with shoe molding. However, if you don’t like the size, shape, and style of shoe molding, you can replace it with a quarter-round.
This alternative to shoe molding will also create a striking look that will make your rooms beautiful. When installing baseboards, you can let them match your floor or trim to create a harmonious look, depending on your preference.
