How to Manage Inside Corners in Base Molding

In order to install base molding, you must be familiar with inside and outside corners. Inside corners and outside corners cut totally opposite from each other. In the steps below, you'll see how to manage the cutting of inside corners.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Manage an inside corner when you're installing base molding by using one of the simplest ways. For example, if you're cutting your left-hand piece of base molding and your right-hand piece of base will be fitting together, turn your miter saw to the left on a 45-degree angle. Put your baseboard on the left-hand side, upright against the stop. Make this cut on the right-hand side of your base.

2. Cut the right side base molding. When you manage an inside corner, you are simply reversing the 45-degree angle cuts. Put the right-hand piece of base on the right side of the miter saw. Turn the miter saw to the right on the 45-degree angle. Cut this piece of base. Now, when applying both pieces together, you have a clean inside matching corner.

3. Learn another way to manage an inside corner in base molding. This style is called "coping your base." Take your first piece of base and make a straight cut. Apply this to the corner of your wall. For example, this piece goes on your left wall. Next, turn your miter saw to the right on the 45-degree angle. Stand the base upright and cut the left end at a 45-degree angle. Cut out the exposed cut on about a 20-degree back angle with your coping saw.

4. Apply the piece you have just coped to the left side of the straight cut. Slide together tightly. This makes a tight seam with little or no caulking necessary.