How to Mark and Cut Outside Corners for Base Molding Installation

When cutting an outside corner of base molding, it is important to measure and place your mark on the base molding where it can be seen when you're saw comes down. Otherwise you may miss your mark and have to recut. Remember to cut opposite 45-degree angles in order for them to fit snugly and form a square corner.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Carpenter's pencil
• Molding
• Miter saw
• Tape measure
• Safety goggles

1. Measure the area in which your molding will be fixed.

2. Place your mark on the back of the molding at the top, so you can see it when you put it against your saw. You can add to the mark on the top if you can't see it.

3. Set your saw at a 45-degree angle for the left-hand side of your outside corner and cut your piece of molding on the mark.

4. Turn your saw to cut a 45-degree angle on the other side to make the cut for the right-had side of your outside corner. They must be cut at opposite 45-degree angles in order to make an outside corner.

5. Cut the second piece of the corner and see how they fit together.

6. Saw the end of the base molding to fit your measurement and check it at the wall where it will be installed to make sure it is a perfect fit.

Tips & Warnings

• To get a more exact measurement, use a 360-degree adjustable protractor.
• If you don't have a miter saw, a coping saw will work.