Tools and Materials
Steps to Cut Crown Moulding
Sawing crown moulding requires some skill, but with proper equipment and planning, it is relatively simple to master. Once your equipment is ready, you can follow these steps for cutting crown moulding:
Crown Moulding Installation Considerations
Crown moulding adds an aesthetic touch to the room. However, a few factors need to be taken care of while installing. Here are a few moulding cutting considerations to note during installation:
- Be careful when cutting the mouldings, especially if you want a clean cut without trimming around the edges. Cut slowly and ensure that you’re cutting in a straight line.
- It is always important to try out cuts on spare materials first. This ensures that they fit the mouldings perfectly on installation.
- A fine-tooth saw should be used to get smooth edges. A blunt saw will make uneven cuts and spoil the look.
- Make sure all dimensions are measured twice. Uneven cuts will make the pieces incompatible with each other.
- Use glue and then add nails to provide additional reinforcement. A strong joint will ensure the crown mouldings stand strong for many years.
- Make sure that any gap or hole on the surface to be painted is first filled and closed. This will ensure a smooth finish and prevent uneven marks.
How to Select the Perfect Crown Moulding For Your Room?
Selecting the right type of crown moulding is extremely important as it determines the overall appearance of your room. Here are some important considerations when selecting crown moulding:
1. Style and Design
Each crown moulding has a particular look that determines the aesthetic feel of the room in which it is installed. The common types of crowning are basic square, ornamental and contemporary.
Think of what would complement your room's architecture or your house's existing structure. And how do you want your home to look in general, country and traditional or classic and luxurious?
2. Room Size
Keep the size of crown moulding as per your room dimensions. For moderate-sized rooms, a 3 1⁄2” or 5” crown moulding will be appropriate. For larger rooms, you might want to go with a wider 7” or even 9” crown moulding so it will be proportional.
3. Ceiling Height
For high ceilings, the width of the crown moulding needs to be determined according to the room's proportions. Taller moulding should start at approximately 8 to 9 feet from the floor. If the maximum ceiling height commonly reached is 9 feet, then 5-6 inch moulding is normally suitable.
4. Installation Factors
Decide whether to use pre-primed crown moulding or pre-finished crown moulding. Pre-finished is quicker and there are no fumes from painting, but it gives you fewer choices on the stain. Also, check if the corners and walls are level; if not, they will need more filler, caulk and sanding.
5. Budget
Crown moulding varies in price from very cheap MDF or pine to more expensive woods such as cherry or mahogany. It is a great home addition, so set a budget for it and look for the best material and style.
FAQs
1. What is the trick to cutting crown moulding?
The trick is to hold the crown moulding at the correct angle. You can use a miter saw to cut it at precise angles.
2. Why is 31.6 degrees of miter angle commonly used for crown moulding?
A 31.6 degree miter angle is commonly used to cut crown moulding. This is because it aligns well with standard cutting angles to give a tight and clean corner fit.
3. Does it matter which way crown moulding goes?
Yes, crown moulding has a specific orientation that must be followed. The decorative thicker edge is placed at the top to meet the ceiling. This gives a balanced overall look.
4. What is the correct crown moulding orientation?
Position the crown moulding such that the thicker edge faces the ceiling. Keep the flat edge or the crown’s lip against the wall. Make sure it aligns properly with both ceiling and wall surfaces.