How To Cut Ceiling Crown Molding Corners

How to Cut Ceiling Crown Molding Corners

Cutting crown molding corners can be a daunting task, but it's essential for a professional-looking finish. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get it right.

Tools You'll Need

Crown molding
Miter saw
Carpenter's square
Tape measure
Pencil
Coping saw
Caulk gun
Caulk

Step 1: Measure and Mark

Measure the length of the wall where the crown molding will be installed. Mark the center point of the wall.

Step 2: Cut the Inside Corner

Set the miter saw to a 45-degree angle. Place one end of the crown molding against the saw fence and align its edge with the saw blade. Hold the molding firmly and slowly push it through the saw until the cut is complete.

Step 3: Cut the Outside Corner

Flip the crown molding end-for-end and align its opposite edge with the saw fence. Cut the molding at a 45-degree angle in the same direction as the inside corner.

Step 4: Test the Fit

Dry-fit the cut pieces into the corner to ensure they fit snugly. If the fit is too tight, adjust the angle of the miter saw slightly and cut again.

Step 5: Cope the Crown Molding

For a tighter fit, cope the crown molding where the inside and outside corners meet. To do this, hold the coping saw perpendicular to the molding and cut a series of small notches along the edge that will be hidden behind the other piece of molding.

Step 6: Install the Crown Molding

Apply a bead of caulk along the back of the molding and press it into place. Use finishing nails to secure the molding to the wall.

Step 7: Finish the Trim

Once the crown molding is installed, caulk any gaps between the molding and the wall or ceiling. Smooth the caulk with a wet finger or a caulk tool.

Tips

Use a sharp miter saw blade for clean, precise cuts.
If you don't have a coping saw, you can use a utility knife to carefully score and snap the molding.
If the corners are not perfectly square, you may need to make small adjustments to the angles of the cuts.
Take your time and don't be afraid to make mistakes. Cutting crown molding requires patience and precision.