Painting trim can be a challenging task, especially for those who aren\’t familiar with decorating. The other day a client asked me whether to paint the moldings first or remove them first. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right approach can make a significant difference in the outcome of your project.

Removing trim will likely break it, enlarge nail holes, requiring puttying and repainting. It\’s usually just as little work to mask and/or paint carefully with it in place.

Should You Paint Baseboards in Place or Remove Them?

Among the many tips for painting baseboards, it is recommended to leave the baseboards in place when painting them. However, in some situations, it can be more convenient to remove the baseboards to paint them separately. For example, if the baseboards are already loose or if you\’re planning a major renovation, removing them might be the better option. When painting baseboards in place, ensure you use painter\’s tape to mask the walls and floors to avoid any accidental paint splatters.

What is the General Rule for Painting Trim Work?

Many homeowners paint the walls first, then move on to the trim while they wait for the first coat to dry. Homeowners should think more strategically. “Paint all the woodwork first—the first and second coats—then move onto the walls,” says Rich O\’Neil of Masterworks Painting. This approach helps to avoid drips and ensures a cleaner finish. Painting the trim first also allows for easier touch-ups if any wall paint gets onto the trim later.

What is the Best Way to Paint Trim?

1. Prep: Use a damp sponge to clean dirt and grime from the trim. It\’s crucial to start with a clean surface to ensure the paint adheres properly.
2. Tape: Dust off walls and ceiling around the trim to ensure painter\’s tape adheres well. Apply the tape along the edges where the trim meets the wall and floor to create clean lines.
3. Prime: Apply primer to trim, covering any bare wood and spackled areas then allow primer to dry for 24 hours. Priming helps to seal the wood and provides a good base for the paint to stick to.
4. Paint: Apply the paint carefully, using an angled brush for better precision. Start with the edges and corners, then fill in the larger areas. Apply at least two coats for a durable finish, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Should You Paint Wood Trim or Leave It?

In general, trim paint affects the value of a home and directly increases your return on investment. However, it\’s best to maintain wood trim in its original state if you have a historic home. Painting over original woodwork can sometimes detract from the home\’s character and reduce its value. On the other hand, painted trim can give a room a fresh, updated look and can be easier to maintain than natural wood.

Advantages of Painting Trim In Place

· Less Damage: There is less risk of breaking or damaging the trim, as it remains attached. Removing trim can lead to cracks, splinters, or broken pieces that need to be repaired or replaced.

· Efficiency: Masking and painting trim in place can be quicker and less labor-intensive. You avoid the extra steps of removing, storing, and reattaching the trim.

· No Need for Repairs: You avoid the need to fill and repaint nail holes caused by removing the trim. This saves time and effort in the long run.

Disadvantages of Painting Trim In Place

· Precision Required: It requires careful masking and precision to avoid getting paint on the walls or floors. Any mistakes can lead to additional touch-ups.

· Accessibility Issues: Reaching all sides of the trim can be challenging, leading to potential missed spots. This is especially true for intricate or detailed trim.

Advantages of Removing Trim to Paint

· Complete Coverage: Removing the trim allows you to paint all sides thoroughly, ensuring a uniform finish. This can be particularly important for areas that are usually hidden or hard to reach.

· Ease of Work: It\’s easier to paint the trim when it\’s laid flat on a workbench. You have better control and can achieve a smoother finish.

Disadvantages of Removing Trim to Paint

· Potential Damage: There\’s a higher risk of breaking the trim or enlarging nail holes during removal. This can lead to additional repairs and costs.

· Time-Consuming: The process of removing, painting, and reattaching the trim is more time-consuming. You need to carefully remove the trim, store it safely, and then reattach it after painting.

· Additional Repairs: You may need to repair or replace damaged sections, adding to the overall project cost and effort. This includes filling nail holes and touching up any damaged areas.

Summary

When deciding whether to paint trim in place or remove it, consider the advantages and disadvantages of each method. If you value efficiency and want to avoid potential damage, painting the trim in place might be the best option. However, if you aim for complete coverage and don\’t mind the extra work, removing the trim could provide a more thorough and professional finish. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific situation and preferences.