How to Install Crown Molding

If you're a novice do-it-yourselfer, learning how to install crown molding might make you a little nervous because crown molding is installed at an angle and each joint is comprised of compound angles. However, if you've got the patience, carpentry skills and an aptitude for spatial relations this project is for you. If you don't, you may want to use something like Styrofoam crown molding, which can be glued into place.

Before installing traditional crown molding, it pays to follow these simple steps:

• Figure the linear footage needed plus and additional 10 percent to cover for waste and mistakes.
• Do a little research to determine the style and finish that best complements your décor.
• Plan ahead when you buy your crown molding. Purchase it in lengths that will require the least number of splices.
• Apply the finish before you install it and allow to dry completely before installation.
• Map out the entire job so you have a pattern to follow. Plan ahead so joints rest on top of studs.

These basic steps in how to install crown molding offer foundational information to help you with your project:

1. Take your first piece of crown molding and run it into the corner securely.
2. Cope-cut the second piece of molding so it meets in the corner angle. Cut it so that the two pieces meet neatly. To accomplish this, use a deep miter box. Cut with a fine-toothed saw. Be sure to cut off extra wood from the back of the molding because only the outer edge of the coped molding will be visible, however take care not to cut into the exposed face of the molding. A utility knife can be used to do away with extra material missed by the coping saw. Use the molding's profile as a guide. Once you've completed the cut, slide it into place to test the fit and adjust it as necessary by carving it until you have a clean fit.
3. Attach molding with a few 6d or 8d finish nails. Stand back and make sure your molding is positioned properly before you secure it. Joists that run parallel to the molding provide an anchor. Take a beveled 2 x 2 cut to length and screw it to the wall to provide a surface angled properly for installing the molding.
4. Countersink nails with a nail set.
5. When you've finished nailing the molding into place, take wood putty and fill the visible nail holes. This putty can also be used to fill small gaps at the joints. Follow up by finishing the nail holes, etc. so that it matches the rest of the molding.

If you're wondering how to install crown molding along a long wall, it's easier that you think. You'll need two lengths of molding, which will be joined with an angled, overlapping scarf joint.

Use a thin layer of glue at the scarf joint. Apply it to the piece of molding nailed in place. Then install the adjoining molding piece, making sure the scarf joint meets in a tight fit. Fasten with nails and remove excess glue.

If you're looking for a way to add timeless sophistication to any room in your home, crown molding makes the perfect choice. It not only looks good, but this added touch of class is relatively inexpensive.

If you feel your carpentry skills don't quite rise to the challenge of installing crown molding, you can always buy the easy to install type molding or lightweight styrofoam crown molding available at your local home improvement store.

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