Tools for Crown Molding

Measurement and Preparation Tools

• A locking tape measure is required for collecting the dimensions of each wall requiring molding. To ensure that the molding is installed perfectly straight, a snapping chalk line tool should be used to create visual guiding lines. Also for accuracy, a carpenter's framing square should be used to check right angles at wall corners.

Installation Tools

• A stud finder tool is used to locate the wooden studs that the molding will be mounted to. A power miter saw with a 10 inch carbide-tipped blade is used to cut the molding to size while a wood rasp tool is used to fine-tune coped (molding that meets at an angle) pieces. A coping saw may also be used to cut coped joints. To secure the molding to the studs, a pneumatic finishing nailer with 1½- to 2-inch finish nails is used. An electric driver is used to draw pilot holes in the molding for edge mounting, and a simple hammer is used to tap the nails into the pilot holes.

Additional Tools

• Molding installation also requires several basic tools. A pencil can be used to label different pieces and draw cut lines. Wood glue may be required to bond molding around outside corners. Depending on the height of your ceilings, a tall ladder may be helpful. If you plan to paint and finish the molding, paint and finish will also be required.