How to Close End Molding

With the right knowledge, installing crown molding can be a DIY project.

When you complete your own home improvement projects, there may be some new tools you need to use and techniques you need to master before the project can be complete. For example, crown molding is generally very easy to install. You just set it between the wall and the ceiling and nail it in place. However, this simple, no-hassle tactic only works for the straight lengths of crown molding. At joints, you need to use special tools and techniques to close off the ends.

Things You'll Need

• Miter box
• Hand saw
• Pencil
• Coping saw

Instructions

1. Set the end of the molding into a miter box. This box has angled cuts in it to help you make perfect cuts. The first cut will be on a 90-degree angle.

2. Use a hand saw to cut the molding at the 90-degree angle mark.

3. Remove the first piece of molding and slide in the second. This piece needs to angle inward at a 45-degree angle. Make the cut.

4. Color in with a pencil the edge of the second piece of molding you cut. The edge should be all colored, except for the line you will be able to see once the molding is installed. This is the leading edge.

5. Hold the molding against a flat surface at a slight angle. Then, use a coping saw to carefully remove all of the darkened area. Because the coping saw has a very thin blade, you will be able to cut easily around the decorative curves of the molding, going right along the leading edge.

6. Set the two pieces of molding in place on the end to make sure they fit together. If they do, nail them in place just as you did the other pieces.

References

• This Old House Magazine: How to Cope a Joint for Crown Molding

Resources

• This Old House Magazine: How to Cut Miters