How to Install Crown Molding on Kitchen Soffits

With the inside and outside corners of a kitchen soffit, the idea of installing crown molding might seem daunting. The soffit is the area above the kitchen cabinets. Usually this area of drywall or plaster fills the foot or so space between the ceiling and the cabinets, rather than leaving the top of the cabinets exposed. By using crown molding with corner blocks you can avoid the need to cut mitered angles while improving the look of your kitchen.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Crown molding Crown molding corner blocks Caulk Wood glue Saw Finishing nails Double sided tape Hammer Ladder Measuring tape File

1. Select a crown molding style that offers both inside and outside corner blocks. The inside corner blocks fit into recessed corners. The outside corner blocks fit around the protruding angles where the soffit sticks out into the room.

2. Use the double sided tape to secure the corner blocks snug into place. You might need to file the blocks if they don't fit perfectly; just be sure not to file any areas that will be showing.

3. Measure and cut the first section of crown molding. Make sure it fits between the corner blocks as closely as possible. When you are certain the piece will fit, use a small amount of wood glue on the ends where it will connect to the corner blocks. Using the finishing nails, install the crown molding to the wall so it is flush against the ceiling. Wipe away any wood glue that may have squeezed out between the molding and the corner blocks. Continue this process until all the molding and corner blocks are installed.

4. Caulk the joints between all the molding pieces and the corner blocks. Then caulk between the ceiling and the molding, as well as beneath the molding where it touches the wall. Allow the caulk to dry and then paint over it and the molding.

Tips & Warnings

• Use high quality caulk. It will be easy to paint over and look better when finished.