How to Prime a Baseboard
- 1). Prepare the surface. Drive in any nails that are sticking out, and nail up loose portions of the baseboard. Set nail heads below the surface with a nail set and hammer. Fill nail holes with caulk or wood filler, then sand the surface smooth. Scrape off any loose or flaking existing paint and sand rough spots; make the baseboard surface perfectly smooth.
- 2). Tape the the wall and floor surfaces along the edges of the baseboard with painter's tape, which will protect adjoining surfaces, but is low-tack so it leaves no marks when removed. Use tape wide enough to protect against any accidental brush strokes or paint droppings. Apply the tape up against the edge of the baseboard.
- 3). Apply the primer with the proper brush. Use a good quality brush that is recommended for the type of primer, either latex or oil-base. Work along the baseboard from one end of a wall to the other; you will have to work on your hands and knees to do this effectively and efficiently. Be careful to avoid runs from too much paint or spills from overloading the brush with too much paint. Let the primer dry thoroughly before putting on a finish coat.
