Wainscoting is a beautiful and elegant way to add character and charm to any room. But what happens when you need to end it mid-way along a wall or doorway without casings?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll show you the easiest and most effective ways to finish your wainscoting, including using cap trim and making a return using the top rail.
We’ll also give you some tips on how to install picture molding and chair rail for a stunning finished look.
So let’s get started!
How To End Wainscoting
When you need to end wainscoting mid-way along a wall or doorway without casings, the easiest way to finish the ends is by using a length of Cap Trim. The cap must be mitred to create a 90-degree angle and then run down the side of the stile to the floor.
Another effective method of finishing wainscoting mid-way on a wall is by making a return using the Top Rail. When you get to where you want to end the wainscoting, simply miter the various pieces of the kit so that they create a 90-degree angle facing towards the wall.
To achieve a more elegant look, you can also install picture molding and chair rail. Begin by installing the chair rail molding and cutting it to length. Check that the pieces fit properly and apply a generous bead of construction adhesive on the reverse side of the chair rail molding along its length. Secure it to the wall with small nails.
If your wainscot installation includes inside corners, you’ll have a choice about how to cut the chair rail. You can miter the two pieces of chair rail to fit against one another in the corner or cut one of the moldings full-length to go into the corner with a square end-cut and then cope the next chair rail against that one.
All of the vertical pieces of picture molding should be equal in length. Set up a stop on your saw to make sure that all of those vertical pieces will be exactly equal to one another in length.
When it comes to size, you can make picture molding panels any size you want to. This makes it easy to plan for and around electrical outlets or any other features along the wall.
The height of the wainscoting is your choice, but it looks best if you keep it low or align it with some other element in the room. Window sills are a perfect example: don’t install the wainscoting within an inch or two above or below the windowsill as it will look like a design error.
Introduction To Wainscoting
Wainscoting is a classic way to add texture and interest to a room. It involves installing wood paneling on the lower half of the walls, typically up to chair rail height. Wainscoting can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, MDF, or even tile.
If you’re looking to create a custom finish, you can make your own wainscoting using wood glue and trim pieces. Chair rail molding is typically used to sit atop the paneling and should have an L-shape in the back to sit flush with the wall and the beadboard. Trim pieces will need to be specially cut to fit seamlessly into the corners.
When attaching the wainscoting to the wall, it’s important to use a level to ensure that everything is straight. While nails and a hammer can be used, a brad nailer is recommended for a faster and cleaner finish. If there isn’t a stud to nail into, nail at an angle for a better and tighter hold.
To finish wainscoting mid-way along a wall or doorway without casings, you can use cap trim or make a return using top rail. Another option for added elegance is to install picture molding and chair rail. The height of the wainscoting is up to personal preference, but it’s important to keep it aligned with other elements in the room for a cohesive look.
Understanding Wainscoting Endings
Wainscoting endings can be tricky, but with the right tools and techniques, you can achieve a polished and professional look. One of the most common ways to end wainscoting mid-way along a wall or doorway without casings is by using a length of Cap Trim. This trim is mitred to create a 90-degree angle and then run down the side of the stile to the floor. This method is simple yet effective and provides a clean and finished look.
Another way to end wainscoting is by making a return using the Top Rail. When you reach the desired end point, simply miter the various pieces of the kit so that they create a 90-degree angle facing towards the wall. This method is also straightforward and provides a more elegant finish than using Cap Trim.
If you want to achieve an even more sophisticated look, you can install picture molding and chair rail. Begin by installing the chair rail molding and cutting it to length. Check that the pieces fit properly and apply construction adhesive on the reverse side of the chair rail molding along its length. Secure it to the wall with small nails.
If your wainscot installation includes inside corners, you have a choice about how to cut the chair rail. You can miter the two pieces of chair rail to fit against one another in the corner, or cut one of the moldings full-length to go into the corner with a square end-cut and then cope the next chair rail against that one.
Remember that all of the vertical pieces of picture molding should be equal in length. Set up a stop on your saw to ensure that all vertical pieces are exactly equal in length. When it comes to size, you can make picture molding panels any size you want, making it easy to plan around electrical outlets or any other features along the wall.
Finally, consider the height of your wainscoting. While it’s ultimately up to you, it looks best if you keep it low or align it with some other element in the room, such as window sills. Avoid installing wainscoting within an inch or two above or below windowsills as it may look like a design error.
Using Cap Trim To End Wainscoting
If you choose to use Cap Trim to end your wainscoting, the process is relatively simple. Begin by cutting the Cap Trim to the desired length and mitering the ends to create a 90-degree angle. Then, run the Cap Trim down the side of the stile to the floor.
It’s essential to make sure that the Cap Trim fits snugly against the stile and the wall. You can achieve this by using a small amount of construction adhesive on the back of the Cap Trim before nailing it in place with finishing nails.
If your wainscoting installation includes inside corners, you’ll need to miter the Cap Trim at a 45-degree angle where it meets the adjacent piece of trim. This will create a clean and seamless look.
Using Cap Trim is an excellent option for ending wainscoting mid-way along a wall or doorway without casings because it provides a finished look without requiring additional materials or tools. Plus, it’s relatively easy to install even for DIY enthusiasts.
Making A Return Using The Top Rail
Making a return using the Top Rail is an effective method of finishing wainscoting mid-way on a wall. This technique involves cutting the Top Rail on a 45-degree angle, and then using a little pie-shaped piece to cap it off, giving the end a pretty detail.
To begin, measure and mark the location where you want to end the wainscoting. Then, cut the Top Rail to length and miter it at a 45-degree angle to create a clean, precise edge. Next, cut a small triangular piece of wood that fits into the corner between the Top Rail and the wall.
Apply construction adhesive to the back of the Top Rail and press it into place, making sure it is level and flush with the adjoining stiles. Then, attach the triangular piece of wood to the end of the Top Rail using finishing nails or construction adhesive.
Once the Top Rail is securely in place, you can continue installing the wainscoting as usual. This technique will give your wainscoting a professional, finished look and is an excellent option for those who want to end their wainscoting mid-way along a wall without using casings.
Installing Picture Molding For A Finished Look
Picture molding can add an extra touch of elegance to your wainscoting installation. Here’s how to install it for a finished look:
1. Start by measuring the length of the wall where you want to install the picture molding. Cut the picture molding to the desired length using a saw.
2. Apply construction adhesive to the back of the picture molding and position it on the wall at the desired height. Use a level to ensure that it is straight.
3. Once you have positioned the picture molding, nail it to the wall using small nails. Make sure to nail into the studs if possible.
4. Repeat this process for each section of picture molding, making sure that each piece is level and straight.
5. If you need to install picture molding around corners, you can either miter the corners or use corner blocks. Corner blocks are pre-made pieces of molding that are designed to fit around corners and provide a clean, finished look.
6. Once all of the picture molding is installed, you can paint it to match your wainscoting or choose a contrasting color for added visual interest.
By following these steps, you can easily install picture molding for a finished look that will add a touch of sophistication and style to your wainscoting installation.
Adding Chair Rail To Complete The Look
Adding a chair rail to your wainscoting can give it a more polished and finished look. To begin, you will need an extra piece of chair rail that you will cut at a 45-degree angle. Without moving the chair rail, bring your saw blade up to a 90-degree angle and cut again. This should create a filler piece that you can glue onto the end of your chair rail, giving it a nice, finished look.
When installing the chair rail molding, cut it to length and check that the pieces fit properly. Apply a generous bead of construction adhesive on the reverse side of the chair rail molding along its length and secure it to the wall with small nails. If your wainscot installation includes inside corners, you’ll have a choice about how to cut the chair rail. You can miter the two pieces of chair rail to fit against one another in the corner or cut one of the moldings full-length to go into the corner with a square end-cut and then cope the next chair rail against that one.
When choosing the height of your wainscoting, keep in mind that it looks best if you keep it low or align it with some other element in the room, such as window sills. Don’t install the wainscoting within an inch or two above or below the windowsill as it will look like a design error.
In conclusion, adding a chair rail to your wainscoting can give it a more polished and elegant look. By following these simple steps, you can create a beautiful and functional wall treatment that will enhance any room in your home.