How to Cut a Baseboard on Uneven Floors

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Cutting a baseboard on uneven floors can be challenging, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done effectively. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Measure the length of the wall where the baseboard will be installed.

2. Use a level to determine the highest point on the floor.

3. Transfer this measurement to the baseboard, marking the highest point.

4. Use a miter saw to cut the baseboard at a 90-degree angle.

5. Install the baseboard, starting from the highest point and working towards the lowest point.

6. Use a coping saw or a jigsaw to cut the baseboard at an angle to fit the uneven areas.

7. Sand down any rough edges and ensure a smooth fit.

8. Nail or glue the baseboard to the wall.

By following these steps, you can successfully cut and install a baseboard on uneven floors, creating a polished and professional finish.


To achieve a level line against the wall at the top of the baseboard while maintaining a flush position against the floor, special cutting techniques are necessary when dealing with uneven floors. However, cutting the baseboard to achieve this flush setting is a relatively simple process. By using the appropriate tools, you can replicate the unevenness of the floor on the bottom of the baseboard, creating a customized cut that accommodates the changing levels of your floor.

Step 1

Position the baseboard about 1/4 inch away from the floor surface and attach it to the wall. Use a carpenter’s level to ensure that the baseboard is positioned correctly.

Step 2

Secure the baseboard to the wall by nailing it in place, using a few nails spaced evenly along the board and inserted into the wall studs. The purpose of this is to prevent the board from moving while you mark the cut line.

Step 3

Adjust a compass to a distance of 1/4 inch. Place one point of the compass against the floor by the wall and the other point against the baseboard slightly above its bottom.

Step 4

While keeping the compass point against the floor, move the compass along the floor to draw a line across the bottom of the baseboard. As the floor’s unevenness changes, the line on the baseboard will mimic these changes. Continue drawing the line until you reach the end of the baseboard.

Step 5

Remove the baseboard from the wall by carefully prying it off at the nailed-in spots. Take caution not to damage the board by pulling it away gradually and evenly. Use the claw end of a hammer to remove the nails from the baseboard.

Step 6

Place the baseboard on a cutting surface. Adjust the circular saw blade depth to match the thickness of the baseboard and set it at a 5-degree bevel with the face of the cut towards the wall. Trim the baseboard along the penciled line to create a perfect fit with the varying floor height. Use sandpaper to remove any bevel and create a level cut at the marked line.

Step 7

Reattach the baseboard to the wall, ensuring it is flush against the floor. The baseboard should follow the changes in floor height along its length while remaining level at the top. Secure the baseboard in place by driving finish nails through the board and into each stud in the wall. Use the same nail holes used during the initial attachment to avoid creating additional holes in the baseboard.

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