How to Cut Chair Rail Molding

Chair rail molding is a decorative strip that runs horizontally across the center of a wall. It's called "chair rail" because it was originally intended to protect walls from the backs of chairs. Chair rail is more commonly used as decoration and comes in many different shapes and sizes to accent any home. Chair rail molding is normally made from wood, but can be made from any type of material. As long as it runs the length of a wall and divides the wall in two, it will serve its purpose. The most popular height to install chair rail molding is between 28 and 36 inches, although you can install it as high or as low as you choose.

Things You'll Need

• Miter saw Coping saw Miter box Tape measure Pencil

Instructions

1. Set up your miter saw. If you are cutting your chair rail mold to sit flush at the ends of a wall, cut each end at a 90-degree square, or a straight cut. Make sure your saw is set to cut a straight line through the mold.

2. Create cuts in two pieces of chair rail mold that will connect together on an extra long wall by cutting each end at a 45-degree angle.

3. Cut a 45-degree angle down the backside of one end, and a 45-degree angle along the front side of the other. The two pieces will connect together in a manner which will hide the seam and prevent a noticeable gap.

4. Connect two pieces of chair rail mold flush at an inside corner by coping along the back edge of one piece of molding so it slides over the edge of the other. Use a thin-bladed coping saw to make the cut.

5. Follow the outside corners on a wall by making opposing miter cuts on two pieces of chair rail mold that will connect together at the outside corners. They will come together to create a 90-degree angle.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a miter box to insure that all your cuts are made at the appropriate angles.

• Measure your cuts properly before cutting to insure your cuts are correct. If your angles are off and the chair rail doesn't lie flush at the corners or along the walls, you will have to start over.