How to Put Crown Molding Corners Together

Use finish nails to fasten crown molding to the wall.

Crown molding is a finish trim material commonly used to add a touch of sophistication to just about any room or space. While crown molding is not as common as baseboard molding, it is a misconception that it is reserved for high-cost construction and structure types. Like other finish trim types, crown molding most commonly requires a generally straightforward installation that can usually be successfully completed by just about anyone using only simple carpentry tools.

Things You'll Need

• Crown molding
• Circular chop saw
• Wood glue
• Small sponge
• Finish nail gun with 1-1/2-inch finish nails

Instructions

1. Cut the crown molding pieces using the circular chop saw set to half of the corner angle (combined, the cuts will complete the full angle); refer to chop saw operations manual for further instruction and safety requirements, as this process may vary depending on saw manufacturer.

2. Fasten a piece of crown molding to the wall and ceiling. The first piece of molding does not need any special attention beyond basic fastening with the 1-1/2-inch finish nails (using the nail gun), spaced at about 16 inches into both the wall and ceiling.

3. Apply a small amount (a bead about 1/8-inch wide) of the wood glue to the cut surface of the crown molding.

4. Fasten the adjacent piece of crown molding as done in step 2, butting the two cut surfaces together. Wipe excess glue using a wet sponge.

References

• "Finish Carpentry"; Clayton DeKorne and Ted Cushman; 2008
• "Trim Carpentry & Built-Ins"; Clayton DeKorne; 2002