How to Install Crown Molding

Homeowners can just do so many things to beautify the place where they live in with their families. Sometimes, it isn’t enough to just paint the walls and ceilings and hang the chandelier. For many, making the lower part of the interior space attractive is not complete when the ceilings are not included in the beautification process.

That’s why we have the so-called crown molding. This fixture is an added attraction to any ceiling whether in residential or commercial spaces. They cover the area where the wall meets the ceiling and they make it look lovelier.

Installing crown molding is a major task that requires strong hands and feet, a lot of patience and measuring skills. If you don’t possess one of these, then better leave the work to a professional carpenter.

Crown moldings come in various styles and sizes. The maximum length is from 14 to 16 feet. It is recommended to buy your molding in lengths to eliminate the need for splices to achieve a seamless look. It would also be best if you paint your molding according to the current color of your room before installing it.

For a long wall, you will need two lengths of molding. These two should be joined with an angled and overlapping scarf joint. A miter saw will do best for cutting purposes as it produces a clean cut. And don’t forget your pencil as this will help you greatly in marking points where you need to cut.

Crown moldings are normally attached to the wall at an angle the reason why extra care should be observed during the installation process. Before installing, determine the location of your molding including the joists to know which one should be placed at what particular area. It’s a good then to number each molding to avoid confusion. Also, drill pilot holes in the molding beforehand to prevent it from splitting.

In attaching the molding to the wall, use only a few nails. Do check its angle and positioning before you complete off the nailing. For the scarf joints, use a glue or wood putty to join two crown moldings. You need to apply the glue first before you nail the second piece of crown. After you’re done nailing the second piece, make sure to wipe off any glue or putty from the scarf joint. Once it dries, sand the joint area to smooth it out.

Also, you should fill all nail holes and any gaps that can be seen with wood putty to create a clean look. You can just use your finger for this purpose. Then smooth it by sanding using fine sand paper.

Finally, to cover the open part at the end of the molding, you will have to make a return. This is usually a V-shaped cut of the molding. Cut this at a 45 degree angle using a miter saw. Apply glue on all sides of the return and press it in place. Hold the part for about one minute or more to ensure that it is set.