When it comes to finishing your flooring project, the details matter. That’s where quarter round trim comes in. This trim piece can make a big difference in the overall look of your space, providing a clean and polished finish to your newly installed floors.
However, if you don't prefer the look of a quarter round, it's not always necessary. Understanding how to use and install a quarter round can elevate your project to the next level, but opting out is also perfectly fine depending on your design preferences.
Let’s dive into what a quarter round is, where it belongs, and how to properly install Hewn's quarter round trim—or decide if it's something you might want to skip.
What is a Quarter Round?
A quarter round is a type of floor molding that is shaped like a quarter of a circle, hence the name. It’s used as a finishing trim to cover any gaps between your Stoneform® flooring and baseboards, cabinets, or similar surfaces. A quarter round can be found in various materials, including wood, MDF, and PVC, but Hewn's quarter round trim is crafted from our proprietary Stoneform® technology, making it both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
Where to Install Quarter Round Trim
The quarter round is most commonly installed along the perimeter of a room where the baseboard and floor meet. It’s especially useful in hiding the gap that can occur when installing new flooring. This gap is necessary to allow the flooring to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. Installing a quarter round trim gives your room a seamless, finished look, ensuring that every edge is neatly covered.
You can also use a quarter round trim in other areas of your home where walls meet flooring, such as along the edges of staircases, around kitchen islands, or even in closets. It’s a versatile piece of trim that can be used in various spaces to achieve a cohesive look throughout your home.
Why Use Quarter Rounds?
Using a quarter round trim isn’t just about aesthetics—it serves practical purposes as well. Here’s why many people opt for using a quarter round trim in their home:
- Coverage: Quarter rounds effectively cover gaps between the baseboard and floor, creating a polished look if needed.
- Protection: The trim protects the edges of your flooring from damage.
- Flexibility: Because of its shape, a quarter round can accommodate slight irregularities in the floor or baseboard, ensuring a snug fit.
When Quarter Rounds Might Not Be Needed
While quarter round trim offers many benefits, it's understandable that some people may not prefer the look. The added trim can create a more traditional or detailed aesthetic, which might not align with a minimalist or modern design style. The good news is that with Hewn's Stoneform® flooring, you may not always need to use a quarter round. Our flooring is designed to install with precision, often leaving only a minimal gap that might not require additional trim to cover.
If you're uncertain about whether to use quarter round trim, it's okay to skip it if the look doesn’t appeal to you. Instead, focus on achieving a tight installation with your baseboards. If you need guidance, feel free to consult with your contractor or reach out to our customer service team at Hewn. We're here to help you make the best decision for your space, ensuring that your flooring project turns out exactly as you envision it.
What Does a Quarter Round Look Like Installed?
When installed, a quarter round trim gives your flooring a clean, finished appearance. The rounded edge softens the transition between the floor and the surface it is up against, making the room feel more cohesive. With Hewn's Stoneform® quarter round trim, you get the added benefit of durability and a high-end look that matches the quality of your flooring.
How to Install Hewn's Quarter Round Trim
If you do decide to go with a quarter round trim, installing the product is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Measure and Cut: Start by measuring the length of where you’ll be installing the quarter round. Use a miter saw to cut the trim pieces to the correct length. When cutting the ends, use a 45-degree angle for corners to ensure a clean, seamless fit.
- Apply Caulk: We recommend using 100% silicone caulk for installing our quarter round trim. Apply a thin bead of caulk along the back edge of the trim that will be in contact with the floor and the surface the floor is up against.
- Position and Press: Carefully position the quarter round trim where you would like it to be and press it into place and ensure it’s properly aligned. Press down firmly to secure the caulk and consider using painter’s tape to hold the trim in place while the caulk dries. We recommend allowing 24-48 hours for the caulk to fully cure.
A quarter round trim may seem like a small detail, but it plays a crucial role in achieving a finished look for your flooring project if that is the design you are going for. However, if you don't prefer the appearance of quarter round, that’s perfectly fine too. With Hewn's Stoneform® flooring, you have the flexibility to go without it if your installation allows for a tight fit with minimal gaps.
For any questions or advice on whether a quarter round is necessary for your project, don't hesitate to consult with your contractor or reach out to our customer service team. We’re here to support you every step of the way.