How to Install Built-up Crown Molding - DIY Home Improvement Guides - How to Repair and Remodel your Bathroom, Kitchen and more

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Home Improvement > Ceilings > How to Install Built-up Crown Molding

Construct elaborate crown molding by building up layers of inexpensive trim.

Layer inexpensive stock wood trim to build up stacked crown molding that costs less than one-piece crown molding, but looks as good. How to construct an elegant crown molding profile using a compound-miter saw, construction adhesive and a nail gun.

Step by Step Instructions with Video

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Step
1

Create the Crown Molding Profile

Mock up a short length of crown molding, layering stock baseboard and ready-made crown molding to the desired weight and profile. Test on the ceiling.
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Step
2

Locate and Mark Ceiling Joists and Wall Studs

Use a stud sensor to locate ceiling joists and wall studs. Mark their locations with a faint pencil line and then painter's masking tape.

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Step
3

Cut the Baseboard and Molding Stock

Use a compound miter saw to cut 45 degree miters on the ends of the baseboards that will be installed on the ceiling.
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Step
4

Join Sections of Baseboard Using Scarf Joints

Join sections of wood trim by cutting 45 degree bevels on the ends then overlapping the miters to create a scarf joint. Nail through the scarf joint to lock together both pieces of trim.
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Step
5

Attach the Baseboards to Ceiling and Walls

Place the baseboard on the ceiling first, securing it with construction adhesive and nails driven into the ceiling joists. Then, attach baseboards to the wall by nailing them into the studs.
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Step
6

Attach Glue Blocks to Baseboard for Crown Molding Support

Apply construction adhesive to glue blocks, set them in place at each stud location and attach the blocks nails at the corners.
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Step
7

Make Compound Miter Cuts on the Ends of the Crown Molding

Install a crown-stop on the miter saw to hold the crown molding at the correct angle for cutting compound miters
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Step
8

Secure the Crown Molding

Nail twice through the crown molding into each glue block and along the top and bottom edge where it meets the baseboards.
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Step
9

Fill Joints and Nail Holes

Use paintable caulk to seal any gaps where the molding meets the wall. Fill nail holes with spackle. Prime and paint the molding.
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