Inexpensive Crown Molding - Tips and Tricks

Inexpensive crown molding can really add a nice touch to your home’s interior. You will get a dramatic new look, often luxurious, without spending a lot of money. For many, the appearance is described as luxurious, complete, and fancy. The looks alone go a long way to making your house look more like a home. With relatively low cost options out there, you don’t have to spend a ton of money. You’ll get real bang for your buck, with inexpensive crown molding.

Can I do it myself?

A handyman unfamiliar with miter cuts, and limited carpentry experience may want to leave inexpensive crown molding installation to the professionals. Of course, if you have some skills, and the tools needed, you can save hundreds on installation. If you have some carpentry skills, it may be worth attempting on your own, without hiring a professional. It’s really more a judgment call than anything else.

There are some basic tools and materials you will need when you choose to install inexpensive crown molding as a DIY project.

1. Miter saw: Preferably the power version, not a hand saw and miter box. This will make for quick work on corners when you install your inexpensive crown molding on your own. Some may prefer to use a coping saw, and do it the old fashioned way. It’s really up to you. Many carpenters now use simple miter cuts. (Corner blocks are optional. They cost more, but save time and look really nice.)

2. Tape measure: Measure twice, cut once. Anyone experienced with carpentry has heard this tip in the past. It rings true with inexpensive crown molding. If you make a mistake, cutting a piece too short, you will likely waste the material. This will add additional cost to the project, so mistakes are not cheap.

3. Paint or stain: You can choose according what you want, or need, depending on materials used. You can find inexpensive crown molding made from wood, plastic, or dense Styrofoam. You will need to adjust your finish to suit your needs, and the needs of the specific type of inexpensive crown molding you select for your home.

4. Hammer/nail/punch/screws: You can hang your inexpensive crown molding with different methods. Some will prefer to use a hammer and nail. If you do this, be sure to use a nail punch as you get close to the inexpensive crown molding, so you don’t leave hammer marks. Some will use pneumatic nail guns, and others will use screws and drills. You can really go with whatever method you feel most comfortable with.

5. Putty: You may need putty to cover up the nail holes in the inexpensive crown molding, giving it a more finished look. This really isn’t mandatory for installation, but it makes it look nicer.

Installation tips:

When you install inexpensive crown molding, you may need a few installation tips, to help make the job easier. These tips can be used by the weekend warrior, or an experienced carpenter. Some may or may not work for you, depending on your needs, abilities and experience.

· If working without any help, inexpensive crown molding made of dense foam will be easier. It’s much lighter, making one person installation a little easier.

· Measure twice, cut once. It’s so important, I had to say it a second time. If you waste your inexpensive crown molding, it will cost you much more. Why spend more than needed?

· Finish material prior to installation, and then touch up. Paint it first, let it dry. When you install, make touch ups to give it a more finished look. You won’t get nearly as much paint on your walls and ceiling this way. Painting up high and in corners is really time consuming, and difficult.

· Use power tools when possible. Even if you have to rent them, it will save you a ton of time. The quicker you can get the project done, the quicker you can admire your handy work, and move on to the next project. Make sure you use an appropriate blade for your miter saw, or you will have some issues with your inexpensive crown molding.

· Spend the money for corners. The miter cuts are the hardest part of installing inexpensive crown molding on your own. If you eliminate the corner, or miter cuts, you eliminate some of the risk of mistakes. In addition, you will save a lot of time. For many, the added aesthetic appeal of corners, when used with inexpensive crown molding, completes the look of the project.

· Caulking may help you to cover up small gaps. If you are not good with a caulk gun, you may want to get some help. Caulk is not a substitute for putty, to fill in nail holes. It’s generally used to seal gaps in the wood, whether from a slightly short cut, or to seal the wall or ceiling to the inexpensive crown molding.

· Start in an inconspicuous area. If you are not very well versed with these types of projects, you will want to start in the most inconspicuous areas possible. This way, any minor mistakes you make will not be as noticeable. With some luck, you will get better as you go.

· Work in sections when you install inexpensive crown molding. Try to envision the project as many smaller sections, rather than one big project. This will help keep you motivated.

· Buy a video. If you really want to do it yourself, but aren’t sure of your skills, buy a video at your local store. You’ll find it’s often a great way to get a feel for the project before it starts.

As you can see, when it comes to inexpensive crown molding and installation, there are some things you must consider. Not only will you have a fair number of tools needed, but there are some additional things you must consider. If you feel comfortable with your skills, give it a shot. If you aren’t sure, you may want to hire a professional for installation. Either way, you’re sure to love the look of your inexpensive crown molding.