How to Install Chair Rail Molding

Chair rail molding is installed by measuring and marking a level line around the room at 32-36 inches high, cutting molding pieces to fit with miter cuts at corners, and securing them to wall studs with finishing nails.

  1. Mark Height and Find Studs. Measure and mark 32-36 inches from the floor around the entire room using a level. Traditional height is one-third up from floor to ceiling. Use a stud finder to locate and mark wall studs along your marked line. Plan your molding layout to minimize visible joints and start with the longest, most visible wall.
  2. Cut to Exact Length. Measure the length of your starting wall and cut your first piece of chair rail molding with square cuts on both ends if it spans from corner to corner. If the wall is longer than your molding pieces, plan where joints will fall and cut accordingly. Always cut slightly long and test fit before making final cuts.
  3. Secure Into Wall Studs. Position the molding along your marked line and nail it into wall studs using 2-inch finishing nails. Drive nails through the thickest part of the molding and into studs every 16 inches. Use a nail set to drive nail heads slightly below the surface. This first piece establishes the height for all remaining pieces.
  4. Miter Corners Perfectly. For inside corners, cut 45-degree miter angles on both pieces that meet. For outside corners, also cut 45-degree miters but in the opposite direction. Test fit each joint before final installation. Use a coping saw to fine-tune inside corners if the miter joint has gaps. Apply a small amount of wood glue to miter joints before nailing.
  5. Join Long Runs Seamlessly. For walls longer than your molding pieces, create scarf joints by cutting opposing 45-degree bevels where pieces meet. Position joints over wall studs when possible. Stagger joints so they don't align with joints on adjacent walls. Sand joint areas smooth after installation.
  6. Fill, Sand, Paint, Done. Fill all nail holes with wood filler and let dry completely. Sand filled holes smooth with fine-grit sandpaper. Apply caulk along the top and bottom edges of the molding to seal gaps between molding and wall. Prime and paint the molding to match your room's color scheme.