Cove Molding 101

Molding.
  • 2-3 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 100
What You'll Need
Cove mold
Tape measure
Pencil
Saw
Finishing nails
Putty
Paint
Stain
What You'll Need
Cove mold
Tape measure
Pencil
Saw
Finishing nails
Putty
Paint
Stain

Cove mold is a common type of trim or molding usually used in corners. It has a fairly simple design, with the front of the molding curving in slightly. Sometimes crown molding with this design is also called a cove mold. Installing a cove mold is extremely easy and will take as little as 30 minutes.

Measurements

Measure out the place where you will be putting the cove mold and mark where it must be cut.

Cut

Make a clean cut through the piece of trim and make sure it fits in place.

Add Nails

Use finishing nails to hold the trim in place. Try to make the nails as indistinguishable as possible.

Use Putty

Use putty to hide the nails and paint the molding.

Where to Use Cove Mold

Cove mold looks good in almost any finished room. Popular looks use cove mold in corners or as a horizontal trim across the wall. Many people like to use white trim to define richly painted rooms. Sometimes the cove mold is left in its natural wood state or stained. This makes a great look for an office or study when coupled with the right colors.