Baseboards are an essential element of any room, and they provide a finished look to the space. Baseboards also serve functional purposes such as hiding gaps between the wall and the floor, protecting walls from kicks and furniture, and helping to cover electrical wiring or plumbing. While traditional baseboards are usually made of wood or MDF, there are several modern cheap baseboard alternatives available in the market. These alternatives are often preferred due to their cost-effectiveness, versatility, and ease of installation. However, some of these baseboard alternatives come with several drawbacks that can negatively affect the look and feel of a room. This blog post will discuss the worst nine modern cheap baseboard alternatives to avoid.
Laminate Flooring as Baseboard Alternatives
Laminate flooring is an excellent option for those looking to save money on baseboards. It is easy to install, easy to clean, and comes in a wide range of colors and styles. However, it is not an ideal choice for baseboards. While laminate flooring can be cut to size, it is not designed to be used as a baseboard. Here are some of the disadvantages of using laminate flooring as baseboard alternatives:
- It can easily warp or bend when exposed to moisture
- It is not as durable as traditional baseboards
- It can be difficult to remove if you decide to replace it later on
- It does not provide the same level of protection as traditional baseboards
- It may not be up to code in some areas
Quarter Round Molding as Baseboard Alternatives
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Quarter round molding is another popular alternative to traditional baseboards. It is a thin, flexible molding that is installed at the intersection of the floor and the wall. While it is affordable and easy to install, there are some drawbacks to using quarter round molding as baseboard alternatives:
- It can be difficult to paint or stain
- It may not provide adequate protection to the walls from furniture or kicks
- It may not be suitable for all types of flooring, such as carpet or tile
- It can be less durable than traditional baseboards
Aesthetically, quarter round molding can be a hit or miss, as it can make the room look more modern or give it a dated look.
Vinyl Baseboard as Baseboard Alternatives
Vinyl baseboards are another popular choice for those looking for affordable and easy-to-install alternatives to traditional baseboards. They come in a range of colors and styles, and they are resistant to moisture, making them ideal for use in bathrooms and kitchens. However, there are some disadvantages to using vinyl baseboards as baseboard alternatives:
- They can crack or split easily, particularly if they are installed improperly
- They may not be as durable as traditional baseboards
- They may not provide the same level of protection to walls as traditional baseboards
- They can be difficult to remove if you decide to replace them later on
Durability is a significant concern with vinyl baseboards, particularly if they are not installed correctly. They may not last as long as traditional baseboards, making them a less-than-ideal choice for high-traffic areas.
Shoe Molding as Baseboard Alternatives
Shoe molding is a thin strip of wood that is installed at the bottom of the baseboard. It is often used to hide uneven gaps between the baseboard and the floor. While it is a relatively cheap and easy-to-install alternative to traditional baseboards, there are some disadvantages to using shoe molding as baseboard alternatives:
- It may not provide adequate protection to walls from furniture or kicks
- It may not be suitable for all types of flooring, such as carpet or tile
- It can be less durable than traditional baseboards
- It may not be up to code in some areas
Installation is also a significant concern with shoe molding, as it can be tricky to install correctly, particularly if you are not an experienced DIYer.
Cove Molding as Baseboard Alternatives
Cove molding is a decorative molding that is often used to add visual interest to a room. It is installed at the top of the wall, where it meets the ceiling. While it is an affordable and easy-to-install alternative to traditional baseboards, there are some disadvantages to using cove molding as baseboard alternatives:
- It may not provide adequate protection to walls from furniture or kicks
- It may not be up to code in some areas
- It can be less durable than traditional baseboards
- Aesthetically, it may not be suitable for all styles of homes
Cove molding can be an excellent choice if you are looking to add some visual interest to your room, but it may not be the best option if you need a baseboard that provides protection to your walls.
Foam Crown Molding as Baseboard Alternatives
Foam crown molding is a lightweight, easy-to-install alternative to traditional baseboards. It is often used to add visual interest to a room, and it comes in a wide range of styles and colors. While it is an affordable and easy-to-install option, there are some disadvantages to using foam crown molding as baseboard alternatives:
- It may not provide adequate protection to walls from furniture or kicks
- It can be less durable than traditional
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- It may not be up to code in some areas
- It can be challenging to paint or stain
Foam crown molding can be a great option if you are looking to add some visual interest to your room, but it may not be the best choice if you need a baseboard that provides protection to your walls.
Plywood as Baseboard Alternatives
Plywood is a cost-effective and easy-to-install option for those looking for alternatives to traditional baseboards. It can be cut to size and painted or stained to match your decor. However, there are some drawbacks to using plywood as baseboard alternatives:
- It may not provide adequate protection to walls from furniture or kicks
- It may not be suitable for all styles of homes
- It may not be up to code in some areas
- It can be less durable than traditional baseboards
While plywood can be a cheap and easy option, it may not provide the level of protection or durability that traditional baseboards do.
Tile Baseboard as Baseboard Alternatives
Tile baseboards are a unique and modern alternative to traditional baseboards. They are easy to clean and can be customized to match your decor. However, there are some disadvantages to using tile baseboards as baseboard alternatives:
- They may not be suitable for all types of flooring
- They can be more expensive than traditional baseboards
- They may not be up to code in some areas
- Installation can be challenging, particularly if you are not an experienced DIYer
Tile baseboards can be an excellent option for those looking for a modern and unique baseboard alternative, but they may not be the best choice for everyone.
FAQs
Why are traditional baseboards expensive?
Traditional baseboards are made of high-quality materials like solid wood or MDF, which can be expensive. They also require skilled labor to install correctly, which can add to the cost.
Are there any advantages to using baseboard alternatives?
Yes, baseboard alternatives can be more affordable, easier to install, and more customizable than traditional baseboards.
Can baseboard alternatives be used in all types of homes?
It depends on the type of baseboard alternative and the style of your home. Some baseboard alternatives may not be suitable for all types of flooring or decor styles.
Can baseboard alternatives provide the same level of protection to walls as traditional baseboards?
Not all baseboard alternatives can provide the same level of protection to walls as traditional baseboards. Some may be less durable or provide less coverage.
Conclusion
While there are many baseboard alternatives available, not all of them are created equal. It is essential to consider factors like durability, protection, and style when choosing a baseboard alternative. By doing your research and considering your specific needs, you can find the perfect baseboard alternative for your home.