Trim and Baseboard Painting Tips for Massachusetts Colonial Homes

Massachusetts is home to thousands of beautiful Colonial homes, many featuring intricate original millwork that defines their character. Painting trim and baseboards in these historic homes requires special attention to detail, the right techniques, and respect for craftsmanship that's stood for generations.

Understanding Colonial Trim Styles

Common Colonial Millwork Elements

Baseboards:

• Typically 5-8 inches tall


• Often multi-piece construction


• May include shoe molding


• Historically painted, not stained

• Elaborate multi-piece profiles


• Dentil molding common


• Cove and bed moldings


• Often 6-12 inches in depth

• Wide, substantial profiles


• Often 4-6 inches wide


• May include decorative headers


• Historically significant details

• Traditional height placement


• Defined room proportions


• Period-specific profiles


• Often with panel details

Massachusetts Colonial Periods

PeriodYearsTrim Characteristics

Early Colonial1620-1700Simple, utilitarian
Georgian1700-1780Elaborate, symmetrical
Federal1780-1820Refined, delicate
Greek Revival1820-1860Bold, classical
Colonial Revival1880-1950Interpretive, varied

Choosing the Right Trim Paint

Best Paints for Trim and Baseboards

Premium Options:
ProductFinishBest For

Benjamin Moore AdvanceSatin/SemiAll trim work
Sherwin-Williams Emerald UrethaneSatin/SemiHigh-traffic
Benjamin Moore AuraSatin/SemiColor accuracy
Fine Paints of Europe HollandlacVariousHistoric restoration

Finish Selection

Semi-Gloss:

• Traditional for trim


• Easy to clean


• Shows imperfections more


• Durable and washable

• Modern, sophisticated look


• Hides some imperfections


• Still cleanable


• Currently very popular

• Historic accuracy


• Very durable


• Most unforgiving of flaws


• Dramatic appearance

White Trim Color Options

Popular Whites for Massachusetts Colonials:

• Benjamin Moore White Dove: Warm, traditional


• Benjamin Moore Simply White: Clean, versatile


• Sherwin-Williams Extra White: Crisp, bright


• Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace: Pure, modern

• Consider wall colors


• Match existing trim


• Account for lighting


• Think about overall style

Surface Preparation

Why Prep is Critical

Colonial homes often have:

• Multiple layers of old paint


• Lead paint (pre-1978)


• Fill from previous repairs


• Settled gaps and cracks


• Detailed profiles collecting dirt

Professional Prep Process

Step 1: Cleaning

• Remove dust and cobwebs


• Clean with TSP alternative


• Address any mildew


• Let dry completely

• Fill nail holes with wood filler


• Caulk gaps at walls


• Repair damaged sections


• Sand rough areas

• Degloss existing paint


• 120-150 grit for painted surfaces


• 180-220 grit final sand


• Remove dust completely

• Prime bare wood


• Prime over repairs


• Use appropriate primer for surface


• Spot prime stains

Lead Paint Considerations

For Pre-1978 Homes:

• Test before disturbing paint


• Massachusetts lead laws apply


• EPA-certified contractors if positive


• Safe work practices essential

Professional Painting Techniques

Brush Selection

For Trim Work:

• Quality angled sash brush (2-2.5")


• Shorter brushes for tight spaces


• Straight brush for flat areas


• Keep brushes clean

Application Method

For Best Results:
1. Load brush properly (1/3 of bristles)
2. Apply paint with long strokes
3. Work with the grain
4. Maintain wet edge
5. Don't overwork the paint
6. Watch for drips and runs
7. Light final strokes to level

Spraying vs. Brushing

MethodProsCons

SprayingSmooth finish, fastOverspray, more prep
BrushingPrecise, less prepBrush marks possible
CombinationBest of bothMore equipment needed

Detail Work Tips

For Intricate Moldings:

• Use smaller brushes


• Work into details first


• Avoid paint buildup


• Multiple light coats


• Check from different angles

Common Trim Painting Mistakes

Mistakes to Avoid

Prep Mistakes:

• Skipping cleaning


• Not sanding enough


• Poor caulking


• Ignoring repairs

• Too thick application


• Not maintaining wet edge


• Overworking paint


• Painting in wrong conditions

• Wrong paint type


• Mismatched finishes


• Poor quality products


• Skipping primer

Painting Order and Sequence

Proper Sequence

When Painting a Room:
1. Ceilings first
2. Walls second
3. Trim and baseboards last
4. Touch up as needed

When Painting Trim:
1. Crown molding
2. Door and window casings
3. Chair rail
4. Baseboards
5. Doors

Protecting Finished Work

• Use quality painter's tape


• Let previous work cure


• Clean tape edges


• Remove tape carefully


• Touch up as needed

Cost of Trim Painting

Professional Pricing

ProjectPrice Range

Baseboards (per linear ft)$1-3
Crown molding (per linear ft)$2-4
Door and frame$75-150
Window and frame$50-100
Full room trim$300-800
Whole house trim$1,500-5,000+

Factors Affecting Cost

• Amount of prep needed


• Complexity of profiles


• Current condition


• Number of colors


• Height and accessibility

DIY Trim Painting Tips

If You Decide to DIY

Essential Tips:
1. Invest in quality brushes
2. Don't rush the prep
3. Use premium paint
4. Work in good lighting
5. Take your time
6. Plan for multiple coats

When to Call Professionals

• Large scale projects


• High or difficult access


• Extensive prep needed


• Lead paint present


• Want factory-smooth finish

Maintaining Painted Trim

Regular Care

• Dust regularly


• Wipe scuffs promptly


• Clean with damp cloth


• Avoid harsh cleaners

Touch-Ups

• Keep extra paint on hand


• Match original application method


• Feather edges


• Full coat if touching up large area

Preserving Colonial Character

Respecting History

Best Practices:

• Don't remove original moldings


• Preserve profile details


• Use historically appropriate colors


• Avoid modernizing details


• Document any changes

Resources for Historic Homes

• Massachusetts Historical Commission


• Local historic societies


• Historic paint analysis services


• Period-appropriate paint companies

Ready for Beautiful Trim?

At JH Painting Services, we specialize in painting the beautiful trim and millwork found in Massachusetts Colonial homes. Our attention to detail and quality craftsmanship ensures your historic details are preserved and enhanced.

Call (508) 690-8886 for your free trim painting estimate!