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Yes, you can install trim on a crooked wall. This is a common challenge, especially in older homes where settling or warping has occurred over time. Professional baseboard installers tackle this issue by adjusting the trim to fit the uneven surfaces, ensuring a seamless appearance. However, these installations require more time and expertise, potentially increasing the cost due to the additional labor involved in achieving a perfect fit.

The difference between trim and molding lies in their function and appearance. Trim refers to the materials used at the edges where walls meet floors and ceilings and around windows and doors, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. Molding is a specific type of trim that is purely decorative, often installed where the wall meets the ceiling, featuring elaborate details or ornate designs. Essentially, all molding is trim, but not all trim is molding.

The time it takes to trim a house depends on the project's size and complexity. Finish carpenters install trim at a rate of about 20 linear feet per hour. Therefore, trimming a house that requires 125 linear feet of trim would take around 6.25 hours. However, factors such as intricate trim designs, the number of rooms, and any custom work can extend the installation time significantly.

You can paint trim either before or after installation. Painting trim before installation helps prevent paint splatters on walls and floors and allows for easier access to all sides of the trim. However, you will need to fill nail holes and touch up paint after it's installed. Painting after installation means fewer touch-ups but requires careful masking and protection of adjacent surfaces to avoid accidental paint transfer.

You should nail trim boards rather than glue them for a more secure and professional finish. Nailing ensures the trim stays firmly in place and allows for easier removal or replacement without damaging the walls. Gluing trim boards may seem quicker but can lead to warping over time and can cause significant drywall damage if removal is necessary. Using nails provides a more reliable and lasting installation.