Title: How to Cut Baseboards Without Removing Them From the Wall | Home Guides | SF Gate
Headings: How to Cut Baseboards Without Removing Them From the Wall
How to Cut Baseboards Without Removing Them From the Wall
Measuring and Cutting
Oscillating Tool
Get the Best Mortgage Rate for You
Reciprocating Saw
Chiseling and Hand Cutting

Content: How to Cut Baseboards Without Removing Them From the Wall | Home Guides | SF Gate
How to Cut Baseboards Without Removing Them From the Wall
Whether you’re installing a new cabinet or another large unit, such as a bookcase, in an existing room, you should remove the section of baseboard behind the unit so it fits snugly against the wall. Most of the time, the baseboard comes off with ease and you can cut it and refit it after the unit is in place. But in the case of large, multi-piece baseboard, or a baseboard that’s glued or otherwise stuck to the wall, you can cut out just one section while the baseboard is still in place. Measuring and Cutting
The old carpenter adage, “measure twice – cut once,” is applicable when cutting any type of existing finish trim. When you can’t remove the baseboard, which is optimal, it’s best to err on the side of making the cut a little too snug, because you can always remove a little more if necessary. Position the unit you’re installing in front of the baseboard to visually verify your measurements. With the unit against the wall, you can place a straightedge along the bottom on each side when marking the baseboard for the cut lines. Oscillating Tool
There are consumer-grade oscillating tools on the market that cut through wood using a vibrating blade. This is probably the safest method for cutting through the baseboard without damaging the drywall behind it or the floor beneath it. By aligning the blade with the cut line on the baseboard and using a light touch, the oscillating tool will gradually cut through the baseboard.