How to Install Vinyl Wall Molding

A notched trowel helps spread adhesive over the molding.

Vinyl wall molding is an inexpensive, easy-to-use, and relatively maintenance-free material for finishing a room. It creates a smooth, almost seamless look thanks to its adhesive mounting that removes the need for nails or brads to hold the molding to the wall. Vinyl molding also comes in a variety of colors and styles to match practically any décor. Placement is possible with one or two individuals and usually only takes a few hours once you get comfortable with cutting and placement.

Things You'll Need

• Utility knife and extra blades
• Sponge
• Adhesive
• Notched trowel

Instructions

1. Measure the length of wall you need to cover with the vinyl molding. Measure from one corner to the next corner. This will allow you to place seams butted together in the corners where they will be less noticeable.

2. Cut the molding to the size necessary for the first section of wall. Use a sharp utility knife and a straight edge to cut a good clean line through the molding. Place the molding on a hard, flat surface and score the surface. Repeat the stroke several times until cut through.

3. Clean the wall surface and immediate floor where the molding will be placed. Hammer any protruding nails flat, or sand and scrape drywall imperfections to get a flat surface. Use a damp sponge to wipe any grime or oils off the wall and allow it to dry completely.

4. Spread adhesive on the back side of the molding, using a small, notched trowel. The ridged adhesive helps the molding stick to the wall regardless of any small imperfections. Some molding comes pre-glued and requires you to remove a paper backing before applying to the wall. Although not as secure in many cases, it is quicker and cleaner to work with.

5. Apply pressure to the molding across the length of the wall for approximately a minute to ensure the beginning of a bond. It may require an assistant to do this on larger walls, but you can also press for a few seconds in one area, work your way down the molding and then repeat a few times to achieve the same results on your own.

6. Wipe away any adhesive that presses out from behind the molding as quickly as you can. Use a damp sponge to wipe off the surface of the vinyl once it's on the wall to remove any adhesive still that may be on the surface. Check the molding to make sure it is not pulling away anywhere and apply more pressure to those areas. Leave the adhesive to dry for the period listed on the manufacturer's instructions.

Tips & Warnings

• Rounded corners are possible by adding 3/4 inch to your measurement, and carefully rounding the molding through the corner as you work along the wall.

• Have extra knife blades available because the hard vinyl dulls blades easily.

• Use scrap vinyl to practice a few cuts to get comfortable with it before performing cuts for larger sections.

• Use proper precautions and protect your hands when cutting the vinyl with a utility knife.

• Adhesive often has fumes. Work in a well-ventilated area if possible.

References

• "The New Decorating with Architectural Trimwork;" Jay Silber; 2005