Easy Guide: Caulk Baseboards & Laminate

If the gap between your baseboards and laminate is bothering you, you may be wondering how you can cover up that gap. This can be done with either caulk or wood sealant. The purpose of covering up this gap is to prevent dust and moisture from accumulating in your floor and baseboard trims, which can result in further damage. Keep in mind that caulk should only be used on nonporous floorboards.

Read on to find out how you can caulk between baseboards and laminate.

Benefits of Caulking

Below are some benefits of caulking you may wish to consider:

• Prevent dust and debris from getting trapped underneath your floorboards
• Ensure that water does not have a chance to enter any gaps, which can result in the growth of mold and mildew
• Keep pest damage at bay, as insects will not be able to burrow into the gaps
• Ensure that the floor does not separate or move
• Caulk can blend in with the existing color of your floorboards as you can use any type of paint over it
• … and more!

Type of Caulk to Use

You may be wondering about the best type of caulk to use for this purpose. We recommend either polyurethane caulk, latex caulk, or silicone acrylic latex caulk. The first option bonds well to floorboards and provides you with excellent water resistance. However, you may need to sand and prime it in order to paint over it.

Next up, latex caulk is relatively affordable and dries fast. It is compatible with all types of flooring, but it may not be the most durable and can wear off when exposed to high temperatures. Lastly, silicone acrylic latex caulk comes with great moisture and weather resistance, although it can be hard to paint over.

The Process of Caulking

Now that you have decided to go ahead with caulking, it’s time to get started. Follow the steps below to get the job done:

• Prep the Floor

When all the furniture in the area has been removed, sweep and clean the floor thoroughly. Ensure that any dirt, debris, and stains are removed.

• Tape the Baseboard

Next, use masking tape to cover up the trim and baseboards, ensuring that any accidental spills can be taken care of easily.

• Apply the Caulk

Whether you are applying it directly from the tube or making use of a caulking gun, be sure to only apply as much caulk as you need. After you are done, you can scrape up any excess using a putty knife.

• Leave It to Dry

Although the caulk will harden sufficiently within the first hour, you should give it at least a day to dry. Here is where you can remove the masking tape. We recommend giving it at least three days before reusing the floor to ensure that it is fully hardened and waterproof.

Take note that the time it takes for the caulk to dry will depend on how much you have applied as well as the specific type you have used.