Cutting inside corners for crown molding can be very intimidating, especially to new DIY home improvement enthusiasts. But with the right steps and a little patience, it is completely possible to achieve professional-looking results. So here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cut crown molding inside corners for crown molding and transform that ceiling of yours into a polished, elegant feature.
1. Gather Your Tools
Everything will be fine and fit like a glove if you have the right installation tools. You should have:
-
Crown molding pieces. For any room, measure the lengths of your walls.
-
Miter saw
-
Coping saw: I do recommend having this handy for tighter joints but not necessary
-
Measuring tape
-
Pencil
-
Sandpaper
2. Measure and Mark Your Molding
Measure the length of all walls to which you will apply the crown molding. For tighter precision, especial inside corners, be sure to use that level of precision for a clear cut. Mark on the molding where each cut should be made with a pencil after you have taken those measurements.
3. Set Miter Saw to 45 Degrees
For most inside corners, you will find that you will need to set your miter saw to a 45-degree angle. This angle allows you to fit those crown molding pieces snugly together into a seamless inside corner. Use the same angle your molding is going to sit on the wall when setting the molding up for an accurate cut.
Tip: Often you will need to hold the molding upside down on the saw when cuts have to be extremely accurate or when detail-oriented profiles call for precision.
4. Cut first piece of molding
Place your first piece of crown molding on the miter saw. Position it so that the portion that will be touching the ceiling is flat against the saw fence, and the portion that will face outwards is flat on the saw’s base. Now cut the end of the molding at a 45-degree angle.
If you need more precise measurements and angles, here is a step-by-step guide on cutting crown molding at inside corners.
5. Cut the Second Piece of Molding
To do this for the adjacent piece you’ll make a 45-degree cut at the opposite angle. The cuts will meet exactly as installed with a perfect 90-degree corner. Attach the molding to the miter saw in the same orientation and make the second 45-degree cut opposite that you just made.
6. Test and Make any Adjustments
Fit both pieces together to ensure that they form a tight corner. If it has a small gap, then sand the cut edges and fit them back together to become snugger fit. Another option may be the use of a coping saw for chopping and making it fit even tighter to the desired area, beneficial in intricate details.
7. Piece together the Molding
Once everything starts fitting together, it is then time to install the crown molding. Attach this molding onto the wall using both pieces so that they perfectly align, using strong adhesive or finishing nails, and press them in place without leaving any gaps, filling minor gaps with caulk for an exceptionally fine finish.
8. Smoothing and Painting
Fill nail holes, and sand rough spots after installation. A new coat of paint over the molding and caulked areas will give it a sleek, finished look.
For more information on how to really nail crown molding corners check out this very helpful youtube video that covers cutting techniques and installation tips.
Final Thoughts
Mastering inside corners on crown molding requires some practice, but results are worth the effort put into this part of the process. With the right tools and attention to detail, it’s easy to make any plain crown molding ceiling look beautiful and like a finished space. Want to get started, or have questions? Contact Creative Crown for expert advice on molding products and installations.
