How to Use a Miter Saw for Molding Angles

Cutting the correct angles for trimwork is among the most difficult parts of remodeling. Power miter saws make it a lot easier. A power miter saw is essentially a circular saw mounted on a swiveling platform that allows you to set the exact angle you want for the cut. A guide rail on both sides of the blade helps in cutting floor molding, because you can stand the trim on edge along the guide in the same way it will be mounted against the wall.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Floor molding
• Miter saw

Instructions

1. Measure the length of the walls on the left and right sides of the outside corner. Locate two pieces of molding that are longer than each of those lengths.

2. For the trim on the left side of the corner, set the molding on the miter platform on the left side of the blade, standing it against the guide rail of the saw in the same the way it will stand against the wall.

3. Swivel the blade to a 45-degree angle to the right, so it's pointing away from the side that the molding's on. Cut the piece.

4. Set the trim for the right side of the corner on the right side of the blade, standing against the guide rail of the saw. Turn the blade 45 degrees to the left. Cut the piece.

5. Cut the other ends of each piece according to the measurements on each wall. When marking the molding for the end cuts, measure from the side you've already cut, putting the tape measure right at the inside part of the miter angle on the back of the board (not the point on the front).

6. For inside corners, simply turn the miter angles in the opposite directions from the outside corners--left for the trim on the left side of the corner, right for the right trim.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear protective goggles when using a miter saw.

References

• How to cut and install moulding.