Crown moldings are a great way to make edges have a beautiful ending. Since both ways seem to look like they can be interchanged, it can get confusing which way's the right one before installing. We researched this to help you figure out what to do.
When it comes to simple designs, the side which has a more prominent design should be pointed toward the floor while the one with less sculpted details goes upwards. One more way to determine which way goes where is to look at the depth of the waves. The concave part goes down while the convex goes up.
Wait! We have more things to talk about. There's more you need to know about home's crown molding. If you're interested in learning more about this like how to properly install it, how much it'll cost, design ideas, and more, keep on scrolling.
Installing A Crown Molding
Now that we know crown molding's right orientation, let's proceed to learn the correct way of installing it on your ceiling or cabinets.
Step 1
Using a tape measure, get the length of the wall from end to end. Do not forget to jot it down so you won't forget the accurate number. Once you went to buy the crown molding, make sure to add a quarter longer than what you need. This can help you have a spare in case you made the wrong cut during the process.
Step 2
Mark the crown molding you'll cut according to the measurement you took. It's best to position the crown molding against the saw, at the angle at which you will cut it. Drop or chop saws cut accurately and quickly.
When cutting, lay the top edge of the crown molding flat on the saw table. These will be the pieces that will go towards the ceiling. On the other hand, the other end should be against the back fence of the saw.
To prevent the crown from slipping, push the molding's edges towards the saw table ends and clamp it tightly.
What Size Of Crown Moulding Should I Use?
According to architects, in rooms with a ceiling height lower than 9 feet, smaller crowns are needed to avoid making the space tiny. In casual places like restaurants, homes, etc., the minimum size of 4 inches is often used.
Meanwhile, formal settings require at least 9 inches of crown molding.
Step 3
Mark the wall surface using a pencil. Make sure they are visible so you can easily spot them when you are putting up the crown moldings later.
Step 4
Before starting, ask for assistance to help you as you're placing the crown molding in the right place. It is best to start the nailing at the center part. Make sure that the angle of the crown against the wall and the ceiling is accurate before attaching.
Learn more about nailing crown molding here: "How To Nail Crown Molding [4 Steps To Follow]."
Do You Glue Or Nail Crown Molding?
This depends on several factors such as the crown molding's weight and the surface of where it's being installed. But usually, they are used together to secure the attachment of the crown to the wall and ceiling especially if you are not using thick nails.
Step 5
Fill in the gaps or holes left by the nails or the in between the molding and the wall by inserting a wood filler or a caulk in the hollow. Follow the steps below on how to use the sealant.
- Clean the surface by brushing the excess debris.
- Point the nose of the cap towards the gap at an angle.
- Squeeze out the bottle to push the product and run downwards or upwards, depending on the direction that you prefer.
- Burnish the sealant using a scraper and wait until it's cured and dry.
Check out this caulk on Amazon.
Step 6
Once the filled gaps are dry and the nailed joints are surely secured, put tape on each side of the crown molding to avoid getting excess color on your walls or ceiling. Prime the molding before you can start painting.
You can pair the color with your wall or the ceiling. It depends on your preference. If you want to paint it in a different tone, try to look for interior design inspirations. Which we'll talk about in a little while.
But for now, you can check about "4 Popular Color Ideas for Crown Molding [Inc. Pictures]" here.
What Kind Of Paint Do You Use On Crown Molding?
You should use acrylic trim paint. If you want to draw more attention to the crown molding, use a gloss sheen to make it stand out more. Matte finishes can result in a flat illusion and have more tendency to weaken after some time. To avoid brush marks, use oil-based paint. Although it takes a longer time to dry, this type of paint can help fill the holes you might've missed.
Learn more about this here: "How Much Paint Do I Need For Trim?"
What Color Should I Paint The Crown Molding?
Generally, homeowners choose to paint the safest color—white. It looks clean and can match any color you want on your walls. But nowadays, people tend to paint it in bold colors too, whatever will match their taste and preferred overall look.
Can Crown Molding Be Installed Upside Down?
Yes, it is alright to install the crown molding upside down as long as you'll remain that way throughout the areas you'll put a crown. That way, it is barely noticeable and the people who'll see the molding may look at it as a unique and unusual style.
How Far Down Does Crown Molding Go?
The height of the crown depends on the height of your ceiling.
- 8-foot: 2 ½ inches to 6 inches
- 9-foot: 3 inches to 7½ inches
- 10-foot: 3½ inches to 8 inches
Does Crown Molding Have To Touch The Ceiling?
Yes, crown molding does not always have to be touching the ceiling. You can install it only against the surface of the wall extending downwards to add more details. Look at the example photo below.
Which Rooms Should Have Crown Molding?
Every room in your home can have crown molding. It can create an illusion to make the spaces look more prominent and can serve as the focal point of your area, especially if there are finely sculpted details on it.
Does Crown Molding Have To Be The Same In Every Room?
No. It is not required but if ever you'll change the styles, make sure that it matches one another to keep the consistency throughout the house.
Can You Install Molding Yourself?
Installing crown moldings can be done by homeowners. It is not difficult and requires basic carpentry knowledge. If you are not experienced in cutting, some hardware can cut down the crowns according to the size and length that you need. All you have to do is to take the proper measurement.
But it is always a better idea to let professional carpenters do it. It can save you time and effort, as well as you're more certain that it's really installed correctly.
How Much Does It Cost To Install A Crown Molding?
Installing crown molding by hired professionals can cost you $572 to $1,892. Meanwhile, the cost per linear foot ranges from $4 to $15 including the labor and the materials to be used. The more expensive the materials, the more it can get past the average estimation.
It can also be charged according to the scoped room:
- Per single room: $300-$800
- Whole house (800 linear feet) : $3,200-$12,000
Customized installations or homes larger than the given example can get up to $15,000. Again, this digit can double depending on the materials that will be used.
Crown Molding Ideas
As promised, we will show you useful ideas you can do to your crown molding before you start installing it.
Matching With Other Home Elements
Here, they matched the color of the crown molding with the window frames and cabinets to create coordination and make it look sophisticated.
Monochromatic Crown Molding
According to the color you chose, this style can highly set the mood.
Differentiating Wall Color
As seen in the picture, the ceiling, crown molding, baseboard, as well as the window frame are colored the same. This is a good way to achieve a semi-minimalist look.
Contrasting Dual-tone
This design by Ashlina Kaposta is very simple yet impactful. The high contrast between the colors black and white looks so balanced.
Mix A Hint Of The Past
Lastly, adding a state-of-the-art detail only in the middle part of a crown molding can be a good combination to your modern interior.
In Closing
Now that we've tackled which way's the right direction for crown moldings to go, how to install them, and what are some of the ideas you can adapt in your home, you can now confidently start your project. Crown moldings can reflect generations and traditions of interior designing and now it will be a part of your home, right up on the ceiling!