Formula used
- Length(ft) = input length × 3.28084 (if meters).
- Qty(ft) = Length(ft) × (1 + Waste%/100).
- Materials = Qty(ft) × Material cost per ft.
- Labor hours = (Length(ft) ÷ Productivity) × Height factor.
- Subtotal = materials + corners + removal + disposal + supplies + finishing + labor.
- Overhead & profit = Subtotal × (O&P%/100).
- Tax = (Subtotal + O&P) × (Tax%/100).
- Total = Subtotal + O&P + Tax.
Accurate measurements and scope control
Baseboard replacement estimates start with a clean linear measure of each wall run. Subtract door openings when trim will stop at casings, and note returns at open ends. This calculator converts meters to feet, then applies a waste allowance for miters, defects, and layout changes. Keeping scope consistent across rooms prevents underbuying material and avoids extra mobilization time.
Material selection and unit pricing
Material cost is driven by the chosen profile and substrate. Primed MDF is economical for stable interiors, while PVC or composites perform better in moisture-prone areas. Hardwood options raise unit cost and may require more careful cutting. Enter your supplier price per linear foot to reflect local availability, delivery, and minimum order quantities. The materials line item is calculated from quantity including waste, not just the measured run.
Labor productivity and height factor
Labor hours are estimated from productivity in feet per hour and adjusted by a trim-height factor. Taller boards often require additional fastening, longer paint lines, and more surface preparation. Productivity should include measuring, cutting, coping/miters, fastening, and cleanup. Updating labor rate and productivity to match your crew’s experience provides a realistic installed cost, especially on long hallways and multi-room projects.
Removal, finishing, and job adders
Replacement work frequently includes demolition time, patching, and disposal. Use the removal rate for careful prying to protect drywall and flooring, then add a flat disposal fee for hauling and dumping. Finishing costs cover prime/paint or stain/clear, while supplies capture caulk, filler, fasteners, adhesives, and touch-up materials. Corner adders account for extra fitting at inside and outside turns.
Markups, taxes, and example scenario
After direct costs, overhead and profit are applied as a percentage to support supervision, insurance, tools, and business risk. Sales tax is then calculated on the marked-up amount based on your local rules. Example data: 140 ft run, 10% waste, Poplar at $2.65/ft, 20 corners at $1.25 each, labor $52/h, productivity 26 ft/h, removal $0.70/ft, disposal $45, finishing $0.95/ft, supplies $0.22/ft, O&P 15%, tax 7%.
FAQs
1) Should I measure each room or the entire floor?
Measure each room for better accuracy, then sum totals. Room-by-room measuring helps you account for door openings, returns, and different materials or finishes in specific areas.
2) What waste percentage is typical for baseboards?
Many projects use 5–12% waste. Simple layouts with long runs need less, while many corners, short segments, or premium materials often justify a higher waste allowance.
3) How do I choose a realistic productivity rate?
Base it on crew history and site conditions. Include setup, cutting, fitting, fastening, and cleanup. Older homes, uneven walls, and heavy finishing typically reduce productivity.
4) Are corners priced per corner or per cut?
This calculator uses a per-corner adder for simplicity. Set the value to reflect your method, including coping/miters, blocks, touch-up time, and any extra fasteners.
5) When should removal cost be set to zero?
Set removal to zero for new construction or when existing trim is already removed. Keep it enabled for remodels where careful removal protects drywall, floors, and cabinetry.
6) Does finishing include drying time and masking?
Finishing rates should include prep, masking, application, and touch-ups. Drying time varies, so include any additional visits or cure-time constraints in labor or overhead.
7) Can I use this for shoe molding or crown?
Yes, if you adjust unit costs, waste, and productivity to match the profile. Crown and complex trims usually require higher waste and slower productivity than baseboards.
Example data table
| Scenario | Length | Material | Waste | Labor Rate | Productivity | Estimated Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard room refresh | 120 ft | MDF (Primed) | 8% | $45/h | 28 ft/h | $1,001–$1,350* |
| Moisture-prone area | 95 ft | PVC (Moisture Safe) | 10% | $55/h | 25 ft/h | $1,120–$1,540* |
| Premium hardwood | 160 ft | Oak | 12% | $65/h | 22 ft/h | $2,700–$3,650* |