A trim carpenter charges $3 to $5 per linear foot in labor alone to install trim, or $4 to $10 per linear foot total. Prices vary depending on:

• Job size
• Molding type
• Material
• Board size
• Any custom designs
• Paint or finish

A trim carpenter installs baseboards, molding, and trim around windows, doors, cabinets, or mantels. This includes basic trim and custom ornamental pieces. Trim carpenters are also called finish carpenters because they add the finishing touches once the framing and basic building is done.

Carpenters install about 20 linear feet per hour, so the average 125 square foot project will take a little over 6 hours. Experienced trim carpenters will usually complete the job more quickly than new or less experienced carpenters. Projects with multiple angles and corners take longer than ones with a large, flat surface.

You can paint trim either before or after installation. If you paint it before installation to prevent spills or messes, you will still need to touch up holes afterward where you attached it to the wall. Many people choose to paint their walls before installing trim.

If you're installing carpet, you should paint the baseboards and let them dry beforehand. However, it's easier to install carpet without baseboards, so if you're installing new trim and carpet, it may be simpler to do the carpet first.

Older homes may have warped or crooked walls due to age and settling. Trim carpenters with experience can usually install trim on crooked walls, but it may take longer than average. This will lead to a longer project timeline and higher labor prices.

Start by searching our list of trim carpenters, then:

• Get at least three free estimates to compare.
• Read reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
• Choose a licensed, bonded, and experienced company.
• Get a written estimate, contract, and warranty before work begins.
• Follow a payment schedule instead of making large payments up front.

When looking for local carpenters, consider asking the following questions:

• How long have you been in business?
• Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
• What material do you recommend for this project?
• How do you handle any damage that happens on the job?
• How long will the project take?
• Do you offer a warranty for your work?
• Will you give me an estimate and contract in writing?