Crown Molding Corner Cut Calculator
Calculate miter and bevel angles for crown molding cuts
Table of Contents
How to Use
- Enter the corner angle (typically 90° for inside corners, 135° for outside)
- Enter the spring angle of your crown molding (typically 38° or 45°)
- Click calculate to get miter and bevel angles
- Set your saw to these angles and make the cuts
What is Crown Molding?
Crown molding is decorative trim installed where walls meet the ceiling. It adds elegance and visual interest to any room. The challenge with crown molding is that it sits at an angle (spring angle) between the wall and ceiling, requiring compound miter cuts at corners.
Understanding the Angles
Two key angles determine how to cut crown molding:
- Corner Angle: The angle formed by the walls (usually 90° for inside corners, 135° for outside)
- Spring Angle: The angle at which the molding sits against the wall (typically 38° or 45°, marked on the molding)
- Miter Angle: The horizontal angle setting on your saw
- Bevel Angle: The tilt angle of the saw blade
Crown Molding Cutting Tips
- Always measure corner angles - not all corners are exactly 90°
- Test cuts on scrap pieces before cutting your actual molding
- Mark each piece clearly (left/right, inside/outside)
- Position molding upside down on the miter saw
- Use crown molding stops or jigs for consistent positioning
- Account for wall irregularities with slight adjustments
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the spring angle on crown molding?
- The spring angle is the angle at which crown molding sits between the wall and ceiling. Common spring angles are 38° and 45°, usually marked on the back of the molding. Check your molding specifications.
- Do I cut crown molding upside down?
- Yes, when using a miter saw, crown molding is typically positioned upside down with the ceiling edge on the saw base and the wall edge against the fence. This allows you to make the compound cut in one setup.
- What if my corner isn't exactly 90 degrees?
- Use an angle finder to measure the actual corner angle. Enter this precise measurement into the calculator for accurate cut angles. Many walls aren't perfectly square, especially in older homes.
- Can I use this calculator for outside corners?
- Absolutely. Enter the outside corner angle (typically 135° or 270° minus the inside angle) and your spring angle. The calculator works for both inside and outside corners.
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