Crown Molding Calculator For Easy Material Planning

Installing crown molding can transform a basic room into an elegant space with beautiful detailing along the ceiling line. But buying the right amount is tricky. This helpful crown molding calculator makes it easy to determine exactly how much material you need for any room.

How the Molding Material Calculator Works

Start by plugging in the length, width and ceiling height of the room you want to install crown molding in. To account for inevitable cuts and mistakes, add an extra percentage – 10-20% is typical. Then input the cost per linear foot of the molding you’ve chosen. Finally, select your skill level. The calculator will use this info to recommend the total molding required.

Here’s what happens behind the scenes: First, the perimeter is calculated by taking the sum of the length and width and multiplying by two. Then, extra molding is added on top of this base amount. This includes both the percentage you specified as well as an adjustment based on skill level. Beginners get 5% extra, while experts get 2% less to account for less waste.

Once the total amount of molding is determined, the estimated cost is calculated by simply multiplying this by the price per linear foot entered initially. The results summary clearly lays out each step – perimeter, skill adjustment, total extra, total linear feet needed, and total cost. So you can see exactly how the estimate is reached.

Beyond the basic calculations, there are also useful extras like a room visualization, installation tips customized to your skill level, and the ability to save and share your specific calculation.

Armed with the molding calculator, you can determine how much to purchase with confidence. Just don’t forget to measure meticulously, account for complex layouts, and build in some extra to be safe. Then sit back and admire the gorgeous finished look! This calculator is only for entertainment purposes, please double check all results before buying materials.

Tips For Installing Molding you Should Know

Installing crown molding can really upgrade a room, but it does take some careful prep and measurement. Follow these handy tips to make sure your project goes smoothly from start to finish.

Before You Start – First things first—measure everything! Take detailed measurements of each wall separately since corners are rarely perfectly square. Use an accurate tape measure, not a laser measure which can get thrown off. When calculating the crown molding measurements you’ll need, add about 10-20% extra onto your wall measurements to account for waste and oopsies. And remember—measure twice to get it right!

For materials, think about room humidity, paint preferences, and your decor style when selecting molding material (wood, MDF, polyurethane) and profile size. Premixed paint makes life easier. For consistency, get everything from the same product batches.

Set Yourself Up for Success – Make perfect cuts every time with a power miter saw. Have a coping saw ready for tricky inside corners. A nail gun also helps. Locate studs in advance with a stud finder for solid installation.

For easier handling, paint/finish the molding before putting it up. Test different angles to match your ceiling. Practice first on scrap pieces—especially those corners! For inside corners, cope the joints instead of mitering.

Finishing Touches – Once installed, fill any gaps with caulk or wood filler for a seamless look. Touch up paint ensures your molding looks polished.

Stay Safe – Wear safety glasses when cutting to keep eyes protected. Use a dust mask with MDF. Have someone help with long pieces and when working on ladders.

Final Tips – Mark ceiling studs with painter tape as a guide. Use backer blocks at joints for strength. In rooms with uneven ceilings, flexible or stepped molding adapts better. In humidity, let molding acclimate for a few days pre-install.

Plan Ahead – Buy 10% extra linear feet of materials for safety. Get extra caulk/paint for fixes. Consider tool rentals if you lack supplies. With the right prep and tools, you’ll have beautiful crown molding that well help elevate your room.

What did you think of the crown molding calculator? If there are any features we missed or you want to share information about your project, please let us know in the comments.