subject: How To Properly Design & Install Panel Molding That Adds A Formal Feeling [print this page] As with project, proper safety practices should be used at all times. That includes wearing hearing and eye protection as appropriate. If you need to use a respirator, dust mask or other tool or equipment, always select the right one for the job.
Planning.
When beginning project, it is important to plan the layout.
Establishing a plan keeps the job flowing smoothly. It is perhaps the most important step. Although installing panel molding requires that you have a good drawing that accurately shows the room and the pattern, you won't need to make detailed blueprints. A pencil sketch on graph paper will do. Be certain that the measurements are accurate. This will depend on the dominant feature of your design. Although you may not have interest in recreating an extravagant baroque ceiling for your own home, you can frequently get some great pattern ideas through studying the ceilings of historic castles and palaces. Look around your room and decide whether you will have full or split panels; single size or variable sizes, or symmetric sized panels. Panel molding is strictly a decorative element, so there are no rules to follow for the design. This is your opportunity to make a unique and individual design.
Ordering .
When ordering your panel molding make sure that the pattern of the molding is compatible with the corners (if you are using corners) and that you have made adequate allowance for cutting waste. Remember to take pattern repeat into account when figuring cutting waste. I want to use a cut list for all trim work.
It allows me to plan all of the joints before I start cutting. I use the same list to plan my order. Normally, panel molding is inexpensive due to its small profile. Therefore, you may want to save some work and order enough to eliminate as many joints as possible. You are also going to need adhesive, caulk, etc. to complete the installation.
Assemble Materials.
Setup a work area close to the job and assemble your tools and materials. Look over the moldings to make sure they haven't been damaged either on shipping or on the job. Inventory your tools and supplies to ensure that everything you will need is there. If something is missing, stop and get it now rather than waiting until you need it, which inevitably is at the worst possible time.
Layout.
Transfer your plan to the ceiling in full size. Layout the outline of the molding rather than the center lines so the layout will be visible with the molding installed. Remember to reference patterns that surround ceiling domes or ceiling medallions, to the center of the feature they surround.
Install.
Because of their light weight no mechanical fasteners are required. Use an appropriate size bead of adhesive and temporary fasteners as necessary until the adhesive sets.
Finish Up.
After the adhesive has set, remove the temporary fasteners or set below surface. Caulk the joint between the ceiling and the molding. Fill the holes made next to the fasteners with non-shrink filler, sand, prime and paint.
