How to Cut an Angled Chair Rail Molding

To cut chair rail molding, you only need the right tools and products to make the job as easy as possible. When installed correctly, chair rail molding can add elegance to any room. You will often see chair rail molding installed in dining rooms and living rooms. Chair rail molding has been used for many different years in different styles and types of homes. Below you will find instructions on how to properly cut chair rail molding when the angles needed are different than your normal 90 degree and 45 degree angles.

Step 1 - Measure the Linear Space

Before you begin to make your cuts, be sure to be prepared. Note the lengths of your chair rail installation needs. Outline the room on a piece of paper. For each piece add about 10 percent more for a waste and mistake allowance.

Step 2 - Prepare Your Chair Rail

It is always easiest to prime and paint the chair rail before you cut and install it. It is much easier to prepare the chair rail before you install it than to paint and prime it while it is already on the wall. This will save you unnecessary taping along the wall.

Step 3 - Measure the Miter Angles

Purchase a miter angle measuring utility. This utility will give you the ability to measure angles other than your standard 45 and 90 degree room angles. Take the measurement of your wall corner with the utility. Lock the pin in place so your angle does not move.

Step 4 - Prepare Your Adjustable Miter Box

Use an adjustable miter box for this purpose. They can be purchased at your local home improvement center. You can also rent them at many tool rental locations. Adjust your miter box to the angle on your miter utility.

Step 5 - Set the Wood

Set the chair rail inside the miter box and line up properly to the needed angle. Cut the chair rail end to the specified angle. An inside corner will be cut differently than the outside corner. You will need to take separate measurements for each. Cut away the excess wood on the back of the piece of molding, using the coping saw.

Step 6 - Trim Edges

Fit the two pieces of the chair rail together. Use a utility knife to remove any excess wood or pieces that was missed during your mitering. Fit the pieces back together to make sure you have a proper and flush fit. 

Step 7 - Sand

Sand down any of the raw edges that were created during this process.

Step 8 - Repaint and Stain

Where you have left cut marks and sanding marks, take out your can of stain or paint and finish the outside of the chair rail.