Can I Cover Old Baseboards With Latex Paint?

Finish

• Latex paint does not adhere to oil-based paints, varnish or polyurethane. In order to use latex paint over these finishes, you must prepare the surface properly. If the trim is painted, you can test the kind of paint by rubbing the surface with a rag soaked in denatured alcohol. If the paint comes off, it is latex paint. If it does not come off, the paint is oil-based and must be sanded and primed to accept a coat of latex paint. Similarly, if wood baseboards are stained with a varnish or polyurethane finish, you can paint with latex paint with proper preparation.

Latex Paint

• Latex paints are water-based, making your cleanup easy with just soap and water. The paint has less odor and low VOC (volatile organic chemicals). Although latex paint is not as durable as oil-based options, it comes in high-gloss and enamel options that retain sheen well and are washable. Oil-based paint dries hard and provides a smooth, washable finish suitable over either latex or oil-based finishes. The paint has a strong odor during application and requires mineral spirits for cleanup, making the product less favorable to many do-it-yourselfers.

Preparation

• Before applying paint, rough up the surface by sanding lightly with fine, 220-grit sandpaper. After sanding, clean the baseboards using a mild liquid detergent and water solution. Caulk along the baseboards where they meet the wall and fill cracks or holes with wood putty to provide a smooth, even surface. After the baseboards are prepared, apply a coat of bonding primer to establish a smooth surface. Either oil-based or latex primer is suitable as a surface preparation for latex paint. An oil-based primer provides a smooth surface and provides a good barrier to keep knots, stains and wood tannins from bleeding through. If you are painting over a previously painted surface without stains or exposed wood, however, latex primer is appropriate.

Painting

• Protect the surrounding surfaces before painting. Masking tape placed along the edges of carpet prevents paint from staining the carpet. Blue painter’s tape keeps paint off of walls and wood or tile floors. Apply paint with a paintbrush, creating even lines along the edges. Finish by painting along the center of the baseboard. Latex paint dries quickly, allowing you to add a second coat for a smoother finish.