What is a Baseboard?

The definition of baseboard is a length of wood or plastic that covers the area between the bottom of the wall and the floor. It is designed to hide the joint, but it also helps to protect walls from damage.

Baseboards are found in nearly every type of building. They are available in wood and durable plastic. Plastic is more commonly used in commercial buildings, while wooden baseboards add a finishing touch to residences. A baseboard is generally glued or nailed to the wall in order to preserve paint, sheetrock and wall boards. Plastic baseboards come in a variety of colors, and wooden baseboards can be painted to match the room. When carpet is installed, baseboards will help to cover the carpet strip along the edges of the wall. It will also keep debris out of the crevice between the carpet and the wall while holding the carpet as taut as possible.