Prep the Molding

Measure the appropriate angles for the molding. Set the miter saw to the proper compound angle and make the miter cut.

Clamp it down. With a coping saw, backbevel the molding following the contour of the cut and cutting off the excess wood at an angle (Image 1).

If the ceiling is not level with the molding, scribe it (Image 2).

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    Image 1

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    Image 2

Secure the Molding

Begin by scoring the edges of the line with a wood chisel. Then, working towards the wall, remove as much ceiling material as necessary. If too much is removed use drywall compound to fill it back in.

Use a pneumatic nail gun to fasten the molding to the wall spacing the nails about every 6" apart.

Repair Hairline Cracks

To repair hairline cracks, widen the crack using a 9-in-1 tool or a sharp chisel (Image 1). Dig out any loose material until you reach a solid wall surface. Make sure the channel is as deep as the crack in the wall. Fill the crack with drywall compound (Image 2). Push the compound into the crack until it’s full and then scrape away the excess.

Put drywall tape over the crack (Image 3) and then another coat of drywall compound.

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    Image 1

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    Image 2

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    Image 3