On Thu, 25 Nov 2010 21:54:21 -0600, Steve Barker
wrote:

On 11/25/2010 8:07 PM, -MIKE- wrote:
On 11/25/10 7:54 PM, Father Haskell wrote:
On Nov 25, 8:33 pm, wrote:
Baseboard moldings always have a cutout on the back side. What is its
purpose?

Is it there to relieve cupping stresses?
Or maybe to just allow for flat placement over imperfections in the
wall?
Anyone know the actually reason for this?

Yes, and yes. Backing out makes sure the edges
of the trim contact the wall, even if the wood cups.

You'll still have to caulk it in, but not so heavily as
if it wasn't backed out. *Light* bead, lay down with a
wet finger, goes fast.


Thanks.

I really hate caulking trim. To me, nothing says, "No one involved took
any pride in their work," like caulking the seems between wall and trim.

Yeah, caulked 1/2" gaps just don't scream "craftsperson", do they?


I was kind of wondering about that. I've never caulked any trim on.

I hate the black line between trim/cabinetry/walls and invariably
caulk it even it it's nicely even and tight.

--
Education should provide the tools for a widening and deepening
of life, for increased appreciation of all one sees or experiences.
It should equip a person to live life well, to understand what is
happening around him, fo to live life well one must live life with
awareness. -- Louis L'Amour