The cove base is made from a relatively thin extruded vinyl and has a height dimension which is substantially greater than the thickness. Although the cove base is used as a top set base and covers imperfections in the outer edges of floor tiles or the like, it has the appearance of a straight base in that it does not include a rounded toe. The cove base is wedge shaped in that it is thinner at the top and gradually thickens toward the bottom while the front surface remains substantially planar. A flexible projection which is a continuation of the front surface extends slightly downwardly and conforms to any high or low spots that may be in the flooring. This projection also defines a space behind the projection and beneath the remaining parts of the cove base which may be used to contain a foam strip or caulking material. The cove base, the foam strip and/or the caulking material may include an antimicrobial agent therein.