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Watch the video on Flexible Trim.
The little details on the interior finish of a home make a big difference, but they can mean big trouble during installation. It takes a skilled finish carpenter to shape curved or angled moldings using the tradition method: cutting notches into the wood to allow it to flex, or carefully clamping it into place and waiting for it to take on the desired shape.
Polymer moldings make such labor-intensive aspects of a project a snap, though. You easily can install molding around the curves and bends that are so popular in today's homes. They also can provide elaborate results without the need for layers of materials. And you can match the rest of the molding in the room, providing a continuous finish even in hard-to-trim places.
Here's how to do it:
- Determine the placement and layout of the trim for arches and bends.
- Measure carefully, then check with the manufacturer to make sure the trim will bend and match.
- To install the molding, simply bend the trim to fit the curve. Use construction adhesive and nails as you would to attach regular molding.
- Before you start to paint or stain, make sure the trim surface is clean and free of dirt. If you need to clean the surface, you can use paint thinner or soap and water.
- Next, fill the nail holes and sand until the surface is smooth.
- Finally, apply the paint to the trim using a brush or spray, covering the whole surface. Apply a second coat of paint if necessary.
Although flexible trim costs more than wood molding, the efficiency of installation makes up for it. So the next time you need to install trim around a tricky corner or arch, remember that flexible trim can make the job a lot easier.
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