Getting the Basics of How to Install Crown Moldings
They are usually placed at the seams where the walls and the ceilings converge.
There are various kinds of design ranging from the ornate to the simple.
However, when learning how to install crown moldings, there are some considerations that you need to bear in mind.
The Material First of all, you should look at the visual goal.
This is an important consideration when choosing the right material for your molding.
Here are some of the most common materials for moldings.
The material most suitable for grand and high style projects is plaster.
By pouring it into a mold, you will be able to create intricate designs as plaster does not shrink or warp.
On the other hand, it is heavy and can crack.
You need to carefully consider using this material because most of them are customized.
If you are just getting started with installing crown molding, it is not the recommended material.
Like plaster, solid wood is another excellent choice for crown molding installation.
It is perfect for both ornate and simple designs.
However, solid wood has the tendency to shrink and swell and is difficult to cut.
Medium Density Fiber Board (MDF) is a material that provides the look of real wood.
Lightweight and cheap, they are available in many designs.
You can even consider buying MDF with veneer for staining.
Another material worth considering when learning how to install moldings is polyurethane.
The main advantage of polyurethane is that it is light, cheap, and is a good insect repellant.
However, it is most advisable to paint them for protection and be aware they can easily dent.
As soon as you have selected the material to use for your crown molding, get the dimensions.
To make room for error, give an allowance of 10 percent to the linear footage.
Apply paint or stain that will be included and determine the right way up.
With a miter saw, cut the crown molding.
The back portion of the molding contains two flat areas where the molding will rest against both the ceiling and the wall.
Place the moldings in the miter box ensuring that one flat spot will touch the ceiling at the bottom and the other flat on the side walls.
This will depict the position of the molding on the wall and the ceiling.
Finally, make 45 degree cuts for 90 degree corners or make the necessary adjustments.
Search for joists in the ceiling as well as wall studs, then screw wood measuring 2 inch x 2 inch.
Secure the molding with a 6D and/or 8D finishing nail.
Learning how to install crown molding is very easy and the attractive look that it can give to your house makes it a worthwhile investment.