Crown moldings are decorative details that can be added to a room to spruce it up or give a definitive touch to its theme. They are also referred to as 'sprung cove' moldings as they are used to cover the seam where the ceiling and wall meet. There is endless variety in styles and designs to choose from but it is cutting the crown molding, which is the tricky part.

Guidelines for cutting crown molding

At the back of all crown molding are upper and lower edges that meet the ceiling and wall squarely and these are the edges that are used to guide you in making accurate cuts. A miter saw is the best and easiest way to cut crown molding correctly. It can be a power miter saw or a hand miter box. The first step would be to measure the molding pieces precisely as there is no use for crown molding cut hastily and just a little too short. Next step would be to set the wall side edge of the molding against the back fence of the saw and ceiling side edge against the saw base. Cutting slowly and carefully in a straight line, ensure that the molding remains seated against the saw's fence throughout the process. For corners, cut opposite 45 degree angles so that the crown molding pieces fit together. It is recommended, whenever possible, to complete a run of crown molding using just one piece. For longer stretches, mitering the ends of two pieces at parallel 45-degree angles is suggested so that they fit together to continue the line- this is called a scarf joint and hides a gap if the wood shrinks.
Most crown moldings are narrow, so the average miter saw will be able to handle it with ease. To cut cove moldings with bevel and miter angle at the same time, use a compound miter saw, which has a second pivot point on the blade assembly.

Finishing steps to a cutting crown molding project

The simpler crown moldings can be fastened in place with tiny nails and glued together at the ends while the complex, intricate designs with multiple pieces, need to be attached to a square nailing strip that fits into the seam where the ceiling and wall meet - this gives extra depth to the crown molding. The handy person may need to drill pilot holes to keep from splitting the wood and nail them in place with finish nails at each wall stud location.

Crown molding
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