How To Repair Crooked Drywall Molding

Crooked molding on drywall must be replaced. Replacing baseboard molding can sometimes be a welcome change to the layers and layers of paint required to cover up the imperfections. Baseboard molding is integral for protecting the bottom portion of the drywall to the many dings and dents from chairs, feet and pets that are most likely to damage such areas.

Things You'll Need

• Utility knife
• Pry bar
• Hammer
• Measuring tape
• Molding
• Compound miter saw
• Nails
• Nail gun
• Caulk
• Sponge

Instructions

1. Cut along the seam where the molding and wall meet with a utility knife to remove any paint that may be attached to the molding.

2. Insert the pry bar in between the wall and the molding and give it a good wack. Once the molding is loose, move the pry bar down the wall six inches and repeat. Keep prying the molding loose from the wall until you have removed it completely.

3. Remove any nails sticking out from the wall with the end of the hammer or the pry bar.

4. Measure the length of wall that needs new molding. If the length is greater than five feet, add 1/16 inch to the measurement, as the molding may bow slightly for longer pieces.

5. Cut the molding using a compound miter saw. For inside, or concave, corners, place the molding with the face pointing up and cut at a 45-degree angle. For outside, or convex, corners, place the molding, face down, and cut at a 45-degree angle. The angles can be set on the miter saw. Be sure to wear goggles when operating the machine.

6. Attach the molding to the wall by hammering 8d nails into the studs along the wall with a nail gun.

7. Fill in any gaps with caulking. Smooth out the caulking with your fingers and a damp sponge.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to wear gloves and goggles to protect against any nails or flying wood pieces.

References

• Home Improvements Depot: How to Replace Baseboard Molding
• DIY Advice: Installing