Trim It Right: Pro Tips for Perfectly Painted Trim & Baseboards

Looking to give your room a polished, professional finish? Painting trim and baseboards might seem like a small detail compared to walls or ceilings, but trust us, these details truly make a difference. Freshly painted trim and baseboards frame your space, enhance architectural details, and pull the overall look together. 

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a home improvement newbie, we’ll guide you through the process. We’ll address essential tools (like the unbeatable ALEX PLUS), and tips for achieving a flawless, long-lasting result. By the time you finish reading this post, you'll be inspired to make painting your trim your next weekend project.

Why Painting Trim and Baseboards Matters

Think of your trim and baseboards as the accessories to your home’s outfit. A perfectly painted trim can elevate a space from plain to polished. Here’s why it matters:

• Enhances Room Aesthetics: Trim provides structure and refinement, framing walls and floors to create a cohesive design.
• Draws Attention to Architectural Details: Well-painted baseboards, crown moulding, or decorative trim make the craftsmanship of a space truly stand out.
• Brings the Space Together: A fresh, crisp coat of paint creates a complete, harmonious aesthetic, tying your room's colours and textures into a seamless look.

But achieving that clean, professional finish isn’t just about slapping on some paint. But achieving that clean, professional finish isn’t just about slapping on some paint. A little preparation and planning will make all the difference.

The Secret to a Flawless Finish?

Sealants are the unsung heroes of a polished paint job. They don’t just protect your trim from wear over time; they actively enhance the outcome.

Why Sealants Matter

Sealants, like ALEX PLUS Acrylic Latex Caulk Plus Silicone, help prepare your trim for painting by:

• Filling cracks and gaps to create a smooth surface.
• Preventing paint from peeling or cracking.
• Helping draw clean, sharp edges at joints and corners.
• Adding flexibility to handle natural home movement without damage.

Why ALEX PLUS Stands Out

If you’re serious about getting pro-level results, ALEX PLUS is your go-to:

• Fast Results: Paintable in just 30 minutes, so you don’t waste time waiting.
• Strong Adhesion: Works on multiple surfaces like wood, vinyl, and drywall.
• Moisture Protection: Keeps paint solid by creating a waterproof seal.
• Durability: Its flexibility prevents cracks or shrinkage over time.

ALEX PLUS is ideal for trim and baseboards, guaranteeing a smooth, professional finish every time.

Want more tips? Read our Beginner’s Guide to Caulk & Sealants or our blog that explores the debate, Should You Caulk Before or After Painting?

How to Choose the Perfect Paint for Trim

Not all paints are created equal, especially when it comes to baseboards and trim. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Best Paint Finishes for Trim

• Semi-Gloss: The most popular choice for its durability, easy cleaning, and subtle sheen.
• High-Gloss: Adds dramatic effect with a polished, reflective finish. Best for modern spaces.
• Satin: Offers a softer, low-sheen look while still being durable enough for trim.

Picking the Right Colours

• Classic White: White trim is a timeless, versatile choice that complements nearly any space. In older homes, outdated cream or beige trim can often appear dull or dingy. A fresh coat of crisp white can instantly brighten and rejuvenate your home, creating a clean and modern look.
• Bold Contrasts: Dark trims in black or navy create eye-catching drama and sophistication, especially when paired with a light wall colour. They add depth, emphasize architectural features, and highlight intricate trim details.
• Monochromatic Looks: Heavenly Hideaways predicts that Monochromatic Paint will dominate design trends in 2025. This style, where walls, trim, and ceilings are painted the same colour, is gaining traction for its seamless, cozy, and timeless charm. By creating a serene, immersive atmosphere, it’s particularly well-suited for spaces like bedrooms, bathrooms, and reading nooks. Just be sure to choose the right finish for the trim to perfect the look.

Pro Tip: Sealants like ALEX PLUS are paintable and won’t interfere with your colour selection. Plus, they prevent uneven finishes like "flashing" (shiny spots under paint).

Should You Paint Walls or Trim First?

One of the most debated questions in home painting is whether to start with the walls or the trim. The truth is, there’s no definitive answer. According to Bob Vila experts, the choice is largely personal and depends on what feels most comfortable for you. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each approach to help you decide:

Painting Walls First

• Pros: This method is often easier for beginners. You can be less precise when painting the walls, knowing that any splatters on the trim will be covered later. It also offers instant visual gratification, as freshly painted walls quickly make a room feel transformed.
• Cons: When it’s time to paint the trim, you’ll need a steady hand to cut in and avoid getting paint on your completed walls. This can be tedious for some.

Painting Trim First

• Pros: Many professionals prefer this method, as it’s easier to tape off dry trim than walls. Once the trim is painted, you can cut in smoothly along the broader, flatter surfaces of the walls.
• Cons: Painting trim first requires a more meticulous approach upfront since splatters or uneven lines could affect the final wall painting.

No matter which order you choose, achieving clean lines and a polished finish depends more on preparation and tools than the method itself. Tips for success include using primer for smoother coverage, investing in quality painter’s tape, and working with tools like paint edgers for precise lines.

Check out this video for Refresh Home Improvements' best painter's tape tips!

Tips for Long-Lasting Results

Want your painted trim to look pristine for years? Follow these tips:

• Regular Cleaning: Dust and clean trim regularly to keep its fresh appearance.
• Touch it Up: Keep some extra paint on hand for occasional scuffs or chips.
• Inspect and Reseal: Over time, gaps or cracks might reappear. Reapply sealant as needed to maintain a flawless finish.

With DAP caulks and sealants, maintaining your trim becomes much easier.

Tips for Long-Lasting Results

Want your painted trim to look pristine for years? Follow these tips:

• Regular Cleaning: Dust and clean trim regularly to keep its fresh appearance.
• Touch it Up: Keep some extra paint on hand for occasional scuffs or chips.
• Inspect and Reseal: Over time, gaps or cracks might reappear. Reapply sealant as needed to maintain a flawless finish.

With DAP caulks and sealants, maintaining your trim becomes much easier.

Refresh Your Trim with Confidence

Transforming your trim and baseboards with a fresh coat of paint can elevate any space from ordinary to extraordinary. By addressing challenges like cracks or uneven surfaces and using the right tools and finishes, you can achieve a professional-quality look that lasts for years.

For a seamless finish every time, trust DAP caulks and sealants—the secret weapon of both DIYers and professional painters for creating durable, flawless results.

Sources

Clark, K. (2024, December 3). Prediction: This Will Be the #1 Paint Trend of 2025 (And We Love It). Heavenly Hideaway. May 1, 2025, https://havenly.com/blog/painting-walls-and-trim-same-color

Vila, B., & Nolan, K. (2021, February 16). Solved! Which Comes First: Painting the Wall or Trim? Bob Vila. May 1, 2025, https://www.bobvila.com/articles/paint-walls-or-trim-first/

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