Crown molding is an easy way of adding extra value to your house. Though it only takes a few steps, it can be especially tricky when it comes to fixing the corner joins of crown molding. So how do you fix crown molding corners?
Crown molding can be complete either by hiring an expert or by attempting the repair yourself.
If you are good at handy work, then fixing your crown molding corners should be something simple. It can take around one weekend to complete a medium-sized room. If you are patient and careful, you should see good results.
What is Crown Molding?
Crown molding is the process of creating a cornice between the walls and the ceiling. It is done in interior design and is common in many homes. In most cases, the angle between the ceiling and the wall is 45 degrees. It covers this sharp angle giving it a decorative frame.
A crown molding installation is popular because of its low cost and has a fancy look. It also helps to separate the colors of the walls and the ceiling.
Crown molding can apply in the kitchen, the bedroom, and even the bathroom. It is also possible to do molding on cabinets.
What do You Need Before Fixing Crown Molding?
When it comes to installing crown molding, it involves working from above while standing on a ladder or raised platform. Some sections of molding can be very high, and you will need an assistant.
If the ceiling is very high get your partner to help hold the ladder for you. It is a very delicate process, and you need to be patient and careful and the same time.
What Tools Do You Need?
- Crown molding made of Plaster/MDF/wood
- Paintable caulk
- Paintbrush
- Wood filler
- Paint primer
- Glossy trim paint
- Stud finder
- Power miter saw
- Nails
- Stepladder
- Carpenters’ pencil
- Tape measure
- Glossy trim paint
Step One: Take Measurements
Your goal is to measure the walls and angles of the room using the tape measure. You can determine how much crown molding you will need by measuring. The best thing to do is to purchase extra crown molding for the extra work.
The best way to measure is to use a long piece of wood that runs from end to end. Your work will be easy if you use this method instead of using separate pieces. If the crown molding is large enough, it can be 8 feet long or 16 feet long.
Step Two: Cut the Pieces
After you have measured all the angles, it is now time to cut the crown molding pieces. You will need to use a power miter saw, or a hand saw with a miter box, because it will give you precise angle cuts. Cut the long piece so that they can meet inside the corners.
Cut the pieces at an angle of 45 degrees on a flat surface. Make sure you do not move the molding while cutting.
Before you begin installing the molding, you should prepare all the pieces you will use to fix the crown molding.
Step Three: Prime the Pieces
Once all the cuts and joints are well cut, it is time to prime the wood. It is not necessary to prime plaster molding or MDF molding(if it already has a primer on it).
If you are using bare wood, then you can go ahead and prime it. Let it dry completely before installing.
If you prefer, you can go ahead and paint the pieces with finishing paint before fixing the crown molding. It will make your work easy because you do not have to repaint it. Some people choose to paint the pieces after fixing them.
Make sure that the wall studs are easily visible by marking them with a pencil. When you start the installation, you will need to identify these places. Marks should be visible on the ceiling and the wall.
Step Four: Install Crown Molding
Start by flipping the crown molding and making sure that it is upright. To install the crown molding, you need to start from the center and hold it on one side. If all the angles are precise, they should fit the corner.
Use small nails to fix the molding in position against the wall. Ensure that the joints are together at all corners. If you have made some holes, you can fill them using wood filler to fill them.
If the walls and the ceiling are not flat, so you need to use caulk to fill all the gaps. Paintable caulk is the best because it is smooth and will penetrate all the spaces.
Step Five: Paint the Molding
Some carpenters paint moldings after they secure them in place. If you are not a skilled painter, then you should first paint them before installing them. It’s best to paint two coats if you want to get great results.