How to Install Crown Molding and Baseboards
Crown molding is the finish that closes any gaps
between the ceiling and the wall. Baseboards do the same work
between wall and floor. Both are necessary to give your room that
finished look, rather like icing on a cake. The right kind of crown
molding can enhance your room beautifully, but the wrong type can
look odd and be overwhelming. You have to choose the type of molding
that goes with the style of your home.
The main difference is in the width. Ranch-style homes or plain
homes will look better with somewhat narrower moldings than ornate
homes or mansions. However, a plain home can be made to look more
luxurious with the addition of moldings and baseboards that are
wider or deeper. If you are a reasonable handyperson, you will be
able to install these moldings yourself, thus cutting costs.
However, the degree of difficulty is reasonable, so if you are a
learner, it may be best to leave it to an expert.
Moldings and baseboards are sold in lengths of 8,10 and 12 feet, so
you’ll need to measure how much you want before buying. Always get a
little more than you think you need to allow for the miter corner
cuts and joining. Prime and paint the pieces before you put them up
and that will save a lot of effort, especially with the crown
molding. Do both sides to seal them. You may need to touch them up
once they are installed, but that will take a lot less effort than
painting the whole length. Place the pieces across a couple of
sawhorses to paint them.
A good rule to remember is to measure twice and cut once. In other
words, double check your measurements, then cut with a miter saw. It
probably won’t be a perfect cut, but you can fill any gaps in with
joint-filler. Cut and install as you go, nailing the molding in
place and countersink the nails. If there are any gaps, fill them in
with a bead of caulking. Cover the holes where the nails are with
wood filler compound and when it’s dry paint over the spots with a
small brush.
If this is the first time you’ve cut crown moldings, you will need
to practice on scraps. You may be able to find scraps of molding at
a building site or get some from a friendly carpenter, otherwise buy
a bit extra for practice.
About the Author: D. Benjamin is the owner of
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