How To Install Crown Molding In Kitchen Cabinets: Step-by-Step

Can I install crown molding on my kitchen cabinets myself? Yes, you can! Installing crown molding above kitchen cabinets is a rewarding DIY project that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your kitchen. This guide provides a step-by-step process for achieving professional-looking results with kitchen cabinet crown molding installation.

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Planning Your Kitchen Cabinet Crown Molding Install

Proper planning is essential for a successful kitchen cabinet trim molding install. Here’s what to consider before you begin.

Assessing Your Cabinets and Space

Before buying any materials, carefully look at your kitchen cabinets.

• Cabinet Height: Measure the height of your cabinets. Taller cabinets might need bigger crown molding.
• Cabinet Depth: How deep are your cabinets? This affects how the crown molding looks.
• Ceiling Height: Measure the distance from the top of your cabinets to the ceiling. This helps decide how much space you have for the crown molding.
• Style: What style are your cabinets? Choose crown molding that matches.

Choosing the Right Crown Molding

The material and style of your crown molding will impact the final look. Consider these options:

• Wood: Wood crown molding can be stained or painted to match your cabinets. It’s great for a classic look.
• MDF: MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is cheaper than wood. It paints well and is good for modern kitchens.
• PVC: PVC is water-resistant. It’s a good choice if your kitchen gets humid.
• Style: Common styles include traditional, modern, and farmhouse. Pick a style that fits your kitchen.
• Size: The size of the crown molding affects how it looks. Bigger crown molding is for larger kitchens. Smaller crown molding is for smaller kitchens.

Gathering Your Tools and Materials

Having the right tools makes installing crown molding easier. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Crown Molding: Buy enough to cover all your cabinets, plus extra for mistakes.
• Miter Saw: This saw cuts angles accurately. It’s very important for corners.
• Coping Saw: This saw is used for coping joints, which is a technique for making seamless joints.
• Measuring Tape: You’ll need this to measure the cabinets and crown molding.
• Pencil: Use a pencil to mark where you need to cut.
• Nail Gun: A nail gun makes attaching the crown molding fast and easy.
• Brad Nails: These small nails are used with the nail gun.
• Wood Glue: Glue helps hold the crown molding in place.
• Caulk: Caulk fills gaps and makes the crown molding look seamless.
• Wood Filler: Use wood filler to hide nail holes.
• Sandpaper: Sandpaper smooths rough edges and wood filler.
• Paint or Stain: Choose paint or stain that matches your cabinets.
• Safety Glasses: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.
• Ladder: A ladder helps you reach the top of the cabinets.
• Stud Finder: Find studs for secure attachment.
• Construction Adhesive: Provides extra holding power.
• Clamps: Clamps hold pieces together while glue dries.

Step-by-Step: How to Attach Crown Molding to Kitchen Cabinets

Follow these steps for a smooth and successful kitchen cabinet crown molding installation.

1. Preparing the Cabinet Tops

Before you start, make sure the tops of your cabinets are clean and ready for crown molding.

• Clean the Surface: Use a cloth to wipe down the top of the cabinets. Remove dust and grease.
• Add a Nailer Strip (if needed): If the top of your cabinets is not flat, add a nailer strip. This is a piece of wood that makes a flat surface for the crown molding. Attach it with screws.
• Ensure Secure Attachment: Make sure the cabinets are attached to the wall well. Use shims if needed to level them.

2. Measuring and Cutting the Crown Molding

Accurate measurements and cuts are crucial for seamless crown molding kitchen cabinets.

• Measure: Measure the length of each cabinet run. Write down each measurement.
• Cutting Inside Corners (Coping Method): Inside corners require a coping cut for a tight fit. Here’s how:
  • Cut one piece of crown molding at a 45-degree angle, as if you were making an outside corner.
  • Use a coping saw to carefully remove the material along the profile of the molding.
  • Test the fit against the other piece of crown molding. Adjust as needed.
• Cutting Outside Corners (Mitered Method): Outside corners are cut using a miter saw.
  • Set your miter saw to 45 degrees.
  • Cut two pieces of crown molding. One piece should be angled to the left, and the other to the right.
  • Test the fit. The two pieces should form a 90-degree angle.
• Straight Cuts: Straight cuts are simple. Just cut the crown molding to the right length at a 90-degree angle.
• Test Fit: Before attaching anything, test fit each piece. This makes sure your cuts are accurate.
• Marking: Use a pencil to mark the back of each piece. This helps you know where to nail.

3. Attaching the Crown Molding

Now it’s time to attach the crown molding to your kitchen cabinets.

• Apply Glue: Put wood glue on the back of the crown molding where it touches the cabinets.
• Position the Molding: Carefully place the crown molding on top of the cabinets.
• Nail It In: Use a nail gun to attach the crown molding to the cabinets. Nail every few inches.
• Clamp if Needed: For larger pieces, use clamps to hold the crown molding in place while the glue dries.
• Check for Level: Make sure the crown molding is level. Use shims if needed.

4. Dealing with Corners

Getting the corners right is key to achieving professional results.

• Inside Corners: The coping method helps create seamless crown molding kitchen cabinets. The cope cut piece will fit snugly against the profile of the other piece.
• Outside Corners: Mitered corners should fit together tightly. If there’s a gap, use wood filler.
• Filling Gaps: Use caulk to fill any small gaps in the corners. Smooth the caulk with your finger.

5. Finishing Touches

These final steps will make your kitchen cabinet crown molding install look perfect.

• Fill Nail Holes: Use wood filler to fill the nail holes. Let it dry.
• Sand: Sand the wood filler smooth with sandpaper.
• Caulk: Apply caulk along the top and bottom edges of the crown molding. This fills any gaps and makes it look seamless.
• Paint or Stain: Paint or stain the crown molding to match your cabinets. Apply several coats for best results.
• Clean Up: Clean up any mess. Enjoy your new crown molding!

Tips for Easy Crown Molding Kitchen Cabinets

Here are some extra tips to make your crown molding project easier.

• Practice Cuts: Before cutting the actual crown molding, practice on scrap pieces. This helps you get the angles right.
• Use a Crown Molding Jig: A crown molding jig holds the crown molding in place while you cut it. This makes cutting easier and more accurate.
• Take Your Time: Don’t rush. Take your time to measure, cut, and attach the crown molding carefully.
• Get Help: If you’re new to crown molding, ask a friend or family member to help.
• Watch Videos: Watch videos online to see how other people install crown molding.
• Start Small: Start with a small section of cabinets. This lets you get the hang of it before tackling the whole kitchen.
• Use Construction Adhesive: Adding construction adhesive along with glue, provides a stronger bond and prevents the crown molding from shifting over time.

Solving Common Problems

Even with careful planning, you might run into some problems. Here’s how to solve them:

• Gaps in Corners: Use caulk to fill small gaps. For larger gaps, use wood filler.
• Crown Molding Not Level: Use shims to level the crown molding.
• Nail Holes: Fill nail holes with wood filler.
• Uneven Cabinets: Use a nailer strip to create a flat surface for the crown molding.
• Crown Molding Not Staying Up: Make sure you’re using enough nails and glue. Use clamps to hold it in place while the glue dries.
• Miter Saw Angle Inaccuracy: Double check the miter saw’s angles with a protractor. Adjust as needed.

Table: Troubleshooting Common Crown Molding Problems

Problem	Solution
Gaps in corners	Caulk small gaps; use wood filler for larger gaps.
Crown molding not level	Use shims to level the molding.
Nail holes	Fill with wood filler, sand smooth, and paint or stain.
Uneven cabinets	Install a nailer strip to create a flat surface.
Molding not staying up	Use more nails and glue; clamp while drying; add construction adhesive.
Miter saw inaccuracy	Verify the miter saw angles with a protractor; adjust as needed.

Fathoming Crown Molding Angles

Crown molding has unique angles that can be confusing. Here is a breakdown of the critical angles.

Spring Angle

What is spring angle? The spring angle is the angle at which the crown molding sits against the wall and ceiling. Common spring angles are 38 degrees and 45 degrees. Your miter saw needs to be set according to this angle for accurate cuts. Check the packaging of your crown molding to know the correct spring angle.

Miter Angle

The miter angle is the angle to which you set your miter saw blade to cut the face of the crown molding. For a standard 90-degree corner, you’ll typically use a 45-degree miter angle.

Bevel Angle

The bevel angle is the angle you set the miter saw to tilt the blade vertically. This is essential for getting the correct fit for crown molding.

Table: Common Angles for Crown Molding Cuts

Cut Type	Spring Angle (Typical)	Miter Angle	Bevel Angle (Approximate)
Inside Corner	45 degrees	45 degrees	35.3 degrees
Outside Corner	45 degrees	45 degrees	35.3 degrees
Straight Cut	N/A	0 degrees	0 degrees

Note: These are typical angles. Always double-check based on your specific crown molding.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the best way to install crown molding on kitchen cabinets?
  The best way is to measure accurately, use a miter saw for precise cuts, apply wood glue, and use a nail gun to secure the molding. Coping inside corners ensures a seamless fit.
  
• How much does kitchen cabinet crown molding installation cost?
  The cost varies based on the type of molding, the size of your kitchen, and whether you hire a professional. DIY installation can save money.
  
• Can I install crown molding on frameless cabinets?
  Yes, but you may need to add a nailer strip to provide a surface for attaching the crown molding.
• How do I make seamless crown molding kitchen cabinets corners?
  Use the coping method for inside corners and ensure tight mitered cuts for outside corners. Fill any gaps with caulk.
• What kind of nails should I use for crown molding?
  Use brad nails with a nail gun. The length of the nails should be appropriate for the thickness of the crown molding and cabinet material.
• Is crown molding for kitchen cabinet tops necessary?
  No, but it adds a decorative touch and can increase the value of your kitchen.

Installing crown molding on your kitchen cabinets is a project that can be accomplished with patience, the right tools, and careful attention to detail. By following these steps, you can achieve professional-looking results and enhance the beauty of your kitchen.