Crown Molding Calculator — Linear Feet & Miter Cuts
Linear Feet Needed
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Material Cost
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Miter Angle for 90\u00B0 Corners
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8-foot Pieces Needed
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How to Calculate Crown Molding
Crown molding is measured in linear feet. Measure each wall's length along the ceiling line and add 10-15% for waste from cuts, mistakes, and odd angles. Crown molding typically comes in 8, 12, or 16-foot lengths.
For standard 90-degree corners, set your miter saw to 45 degrees. However, crown molding sits at an angle (the spring angle), which is typically 38 degrees or 45 degrees depending on the profile. Check the manufacturer's specifications for your specific molding.
Inside corners use cope joints (preferred over miter joints because walls are rarely perfectly square). Outside corners use miter joints. Always cut with the molding upside down on the saw, with the ceiling edge against the fence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much crown molding do I need?
Measure the total length of all walls where molding will be installed. Add 10-15% for waste. For a 14x12 room, you need about 52 feet of wall length plus waste = 57-60 linear feet.
What angle do I cut crown molding?
For 90-degree corners with 38-degree spring angle molding: set miter to 31.6 degrees and bevel to 33.9 degrees. For 45-degree spring angle: miter 35.26 degrees and bevel 30 degrees. Or cut flat at 45 degrees.
Should I cope or miter inside corners?
Coping is strongly preferred for inside corners. Cut one piece square to the wall and cope the mating piece to fit. Coped joints stay tight even as wood expands and contracts, while mitered inside corners tend to open up.