Dorsis Linus is the top flush baseboard choice for contemporary homes. Follow this flush baseboard installation guide for best results.
A flush baseboard requires a slightly modified construction schedule compared to traditional construction. You will install the baseboard first, followed by drywall, followed by hardwood floor or floor tiles.
The Dorsis Linus flush baseboard is made of aluminum.
Cut the Linus baseboard aluminum profile using a miter saw. IMPORTANT: Use a non-ferrous cutting blade such as Diablo 10 in x 80 Tooth Medium Aluminum Saw Blade. Use slower rotation on the miter saw. Lubricate the cutting blade with cutting oil. Feed the aluminum extrusion slowly. Wear eye protection and hearing protection when cutting.
Determine the exact elevation of the finished floor. Start at the subfloor (floorboard) and add the expected thickness of the flooring material, i.e. ¾" for typical hardwood.
The Linus baseboard profile is 2-⅜" tall (60 mm). Set the elevation for the top of the baseboard using a laser level.
Inspect the framing and ensure the wall is plumb (apply or remove drywall shims as needed). Make sure that the backing for the baseboard is also plumb.
Skip to Step 4 if you are not using Dorsis Fortius / Durus concealed door frame or Dorsis Belport trimless pocket door.
Install the Linus door frame connectors. Use a self-drilling flat-head screw to attach the Linus connector to the Dorsis Fortius/Durus/Belport frame.
Make sure to countersink each screw so that it does not interfere with the baseboard insert.
If you are using Linus system pre-cut corner elements, connect the two sides of each corner using the enclosed L-bracket.
Mount the corner to the studs. You can use self-drilling flat-head screws or glue the corner using construction adhesive.
Cut the baseboard profile to length. For corners, use a miter saw and cut at a 45° angle.
You can attach the baseboard to studs using self-drilling screws, construction adhesive (i.e. DAP DynaGrip Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive or Gorilla Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive), or a combination of both.
Set the drywall on the top flange of the Linus baseboard profile. Use fiber-reinforced drywall joint compound, i.e. 3M High Strength Large Hole Repair, to mud the joint between the drywall and the edge of the Linus baseboard profile.
Install the flooring material, i.e. hardwood, so that it slides under the Linus baseboard profile. Do not press the hardwood floor against the back plate of the aluminum profile — leave a small gap to allow for expansion and contraction.
Verify that the baseboard inset board can be inserted easily and sits flush with the wall and floor. Scribe the bottom edge of the baseboard inset as necessary.
The baseboard profile has two adhesive strips. Remove the protective liner and press in the baseboard inset.
