How to Hang Crown Molding on Kitchen Cabinets

Introduction

Adding crown molding is one of the best ways to give your kitchen an elegant, finished look. Installing crown molding on top of your kitchen cabinets frames the cabinetry, adds visual interest, and gives the space a high-end feel. While the process of installing crown molding may seem daunting, it’s actually quite straightforward with the right tools, materials, and techniques.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to successfully hang crown molding on your kitchen cabinets. We’ll cover planning and prep work, tips for cutting and fitting the molding, how to make flawless mitered joints, and step-by-step instructions for installing the molding using nails, glue, and other secure fastening methods. With a little bit of time and patience, you can gain a tremendous sense of satisfaction from adding beautiful crown molding to your kitchen. So read on to learn how to hang crown molding on kitchen cabinets and transform your space!

Assessing Your Kitchen and Choosing Crown Molding

Before starting any work, take time to fully evaluate your kitchen space. Consider the size of the room, the height of your cabinets, and the existing style and finishes. This will help you select the right crown molding size and profile.

Here are some tips for choosing crown molding for your kitchen cabinets:

Measure the height and depth of your cabinet tops and vertical projection of the cabinet frame. This gives you the dimensions the crown molding needs to fit.
Standard crown sizes are 3-1/2″, 5″, and 7-1/2″, measured from the wall to the front tip of the molding. A wider cabinet top can accommodate larger molding.
The profile refers to the shape – from simple to highly ornate. Select a profile that fits your kitchen’s decor style.
Consider the room’s proportions. A small kitchen usually looks best with 3-1/2″ crown. Larger rooms can handle more substantial 5″ or 7-1/2″ molding.
Stick with a traditional style, like polyurethane or polystyrene foam, which is easy to cut and install. Avoid plaster or resin, which are very brittle.

Once you select the ideal molding for your space, purchase boards in 8 to 10-foot lengths with few seams needed. Have the molding delivered well before you plan to start installation. Acclimate it in the room for 1-2 days to prevent shrinkage gaps from heat or humidity in your home.

Preparing Cabinets Prior to Installation

Proper planning and prep work are key steps for a successful crown molding project.

Here are some tips to prepare your cabinets:

Remove cabinet doors – Detaching the doors makes it easier to install the molding tight to the cabinet frame. Take off knobs and hinges and label each door for easy reattachment later.
Clear cabinet tops – Crown molding should sit flush against the top cabinet frame. Remove any items sitting on top of the cabinets.
Clean thoroughly – Use a degreaser to remove any dust, grease or grime so the molding adheres well.
Repair flaws – Inspect for any damage or uneven areas on the cabinet tops and fix prior to installation. Use wood filler on dents and sand smooth.
Add reinforcement – Styrofoam crown is lightweight, but for a strong bond consider attaching 1×2″ furring strips horizontally along the tops of the cabinets about 1″ below the top of the cabinets.
Check for plumb – Use a level on front and sides to make sure the cabinets sit flush against the walls. Install wood shims if needed to make perfectly plumb.

Prep work is dull but essential for beautiful results. With the cabinets cleaned, reinforced, and plumb your chance of crown molding success is much greater.

How to Cut Crown Molding for Kitchen Cabinets

Cutting crown molding to achieve flawless mitered corners takes precision and the right techniques. Follow these tips for perfect cuts:

Gather the Right Tools

Miter saw with sharp blade – For the cleanest cuts, a 10-12″ compound miter saw is ideal. A miter box can also work.
Fine-tooth hand saw – For minor trim work or adjustments.
Pneumatic nail gun and compressor – Makes installing efficient and fast.
18-gauge brad nails, 1-1/4″ long.
Other supplies – wood glue, painter’s tape, caulk gun, touch-up markers.

Cut Test Pieces First

The complex angles of crown molding profiles can be tricky. Avoid costly mistakes by first cutting a few practice pieces on scrap:

Set the miter saw blade at a 45-degree bevel for basic miter cuts.
Position the molding upside down and reverse the angle settings so the bottom edges align properly.
Cut 45-degree miters. Check corners for fit and adjust blade angle as needed for a tight seam.

Measure and Mark the Crown Molding

Measure between corners and cut boards to rough length.
On the backside, mark the crown at the measured lengths for each wall section.
Also mark the edges of stud locations so you can nail into wood. Use a stud finder to locate studs.
For inside corners, mark 45-degree angle cuts. For outside corners, mark the reverse angles.

Accurate measuring and marking ensures a proper fit for each section.

Cut the Molding

For flawless results, cut in stages – rough cuts first, then fine tune for precision.
Position molding upside down on the saw to cut bottom edges. Double check angles.
Make finish cuts with the blade raised slightly to trim just the tips.
Cut slowly and smoothly through the entire pass for clean edges.
Use a fine saw or sandpaper to smooth any rough edges.

With practice, you’ll be able to cut crown molding like a pro!

Installing Crown Molding on Kitchen Cabinets

Once your molding is cut, it’s time to install it for a flawless finish. Follow these tips:

Use Adhesive for a Strong Bond

For the strongest hold and a crack-proof result:

Run a 1/4″ bead of construction adhesive along the length of the cabinet tops.
Use painter’s tape to hold pieces temporarily as the adhesive dries.
Also apply adhesive to mitered ends when joining segments. Clamp joints tightly.

Adhesive creates a tenacious bond and prevents any gaps from opening over time.

Fasten with Brad Nails

For added strength and stability:

Use an 18-gauge pneumatic nail gun with 1-1/4″ brads to attach the molding. This allows rapid nailing without damaging the molding surface.
Nail about every 10″ along the length of the molding, and 2-3 nails at each stud location to anchor firmly.
Nail gently – just below the surface to avoid denting the molding. Fill small holes with putty.
Don’t nail tightly at the junction between molding lengths. Allow a little room for adjustment.

Work from the Center Outward

For the most seamless results:

Start installing molding at the center above the main kitchen cabinet run.
Work outward in both directions from the center.
Use scrap pieces of wood shimmed out at sides to set consistent reveals at ends until you install the final mitered pieces.

Installing from the middle out helps disguise any slight gaps or mismatches in the corners.

Flawless Inside and Outside Corners

For inside corners, position one side and adhere. Then slide the mating piece into place for a snug fit.
For outside corners, carefully align the two adjoining pieces and hold in place as you nail.
Check each corner for tight seams and re-cut or re-position if needed prior to nailing.

Take time to finesse the corner joints for a quality finish.

Caulk and Complete Finishing Touches

Once installed, complete the job:

Caulk corner seams and junctions with paintable silicone caulk, then wipe smooth.
Re-attach cabinet doors and hardware.
Patch nail holes, touch up with markers.
Install lighting on top of the molding to accentuate it beautifully.

Stand back and admire how crown molding transforms your entire kitchen with elegance!

Tips for Flawless Results Hanging Crown Molding

Installing crown molding is very rewarding when done properly. Keep these additional tips in mind:

Buy quality molding – cuts and installs easier and looks noticeably better. Cheap molding shows imperfections.
Allow plenty of time – don’t rush the job. Work methodically through each step.
Keep blade and saw fence perpendicular – adjust as needed to mitigate uneven cuts.
Cope inside corners for superior fit – requires a coping saw and practice.
Sand out imperfections – a light sanding smoothes rough edges.
Prime and paint with molding in place – provides an integrated look.
Install matching trim below for a framed look.
Watch several online tutorials to pick up pro tips before beginning.
Ask a knowledgeable friend for hands-on advice. Experience is a great help.

With attention to detail and proper techniques, you can achieve beautiful, flawless results and transform your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions About Installing Crown Molding on Kitchen Cabinets

What tools do I need to install crown molding on cabinets?

You’ll need a miter saw, pneumatic nail gun, hammer, wood glue, painter’s tape, caulk gun, touch-up markers, and other basic tools. Safety equipment like goggles and a respirator are also recommended.

What is the best way to cut crown molding?

Use a sharp miter saw blade. Cut with the molding upside down to saw the bottom edge. Make test cuts on scrap pieces first. Measure, mark, and cut in stages for precision.

How do I get a tight seam between molding pieces?

A snug seam starts with precise 45-degree mitered cuts. Use a coping saw for even tighter inside corners. Apply adhesive at joints and clamp tightly while drying. Caulk all seams.

Should I nail and glue the molding?

Yes, use both adhesive and nails for the strongest bond. Adhesive attaches the entire length and nails add fastening strength. Stagger nails about every 10 inches along studs.

What order should I install the molding in?

Start at the center over a cabinet run and work outward to the sides. Install side pieces last for the easiest fit. Use shims initially to set consistent spacing.

How much crown molding do I need to buy?

Measure your cabinet run lengths and buy 10+ foot boards to avoid seams. Buy 5-10% extra to allow for imperfect cuts as you learn. For a 10 foot room, get (2) 12 foot boards.

Is it hard to install crown molding for a beginner DIYer?

It can be challenging but using the right techniques makes it very manageable. Take it slow, do the prep work, and cut test pieces. Watch online tutorials. Have an experienced friend assist if possible.

Conclusion

Adding beautiful crown molding is one of the best ways to enhance your kitchen’s style and elevate the entire space. While the installation process involves careful planning, precision cutting, and keen attention to detail, the impressive results are well worth the effort. Now that you know the steps for properly measuring, cutting, and installing the molding using nails, adhesive, and proper fastening techniques, you can feel confident tackling this project. Remember to work slowly, double check measurements, and finesse the fitted joints. With patience and care, you can gain tremendous satisfaction taking your kitchen up a notch with gorgeous new crown molding.