I would like to install a chair rail in my dining room, as my furniture is constantly damaging the walls (it is a small room). Can you give me some advice, please? Thank you!
Signed, Done with Damage
A: Dear Done with Damage,
Chair rails come in a number of different styles. It is important to select a chair rail style that best matches the surrounding woodwork. Once you have selected a style, you will then need to determine if you want to stain, paint or leave the chair rail natural, as different compositions react differently to various applications.
Since you have mentioned that your dining room is small, chances are good that you will not have any joints outside of the ones in your corners. (Note: when needed, splicing two pieces of chair rail together lengthwise is best accomplished using a “scarf” joint.) When measuring for length, it is best to add an additional six to 10 inches of length for cutting purposes.
If you purchase a wood chair rail, be sure to allow a three day acclamation period. Before installing, you will want to mark out the locations of your wall studs. I recommend using a stud finder to locate the studs. Mark the studs by placing small pieces of colored painter’s tape where the studs are located. This way, you will not need to clean up stubborn lead marks caused by using a pencil.
Now it’s time to determine the height of your chair rail. The height you choose is purely subjective. Some people will locate the height to match their current furniture, while some people of average height will place it at the height of their hip. One thing to consider is the room’s décor. As an example, if you have a three-part Victorian décor, you will want to locate the rail a few inches lower than you would otherwise. Once you have established a height, I recommend snapping a chalk line along the lower side of where your new chair rail will run.
Before cutting to exact length, you will want to measure the length of the wall and add 1/8th of an inch to insure a tight fit. Cut both ends at a 45-degree angle and install. You will want to choose the appropriate sized finish nail. Typically, you will want to use 8 or 10 penny finish nails. I recommend pre-drilling all nail locations in order to reduce the chance of splitting. Use a drill bit approximately 1/2 the diameter of the nail you will be using. Try to insert nails in line with the studs, as this will provide a stronger attachment.
Finally, fill nail holes, sand and finish as you please!
Kaile Warren of Windham is CEO/Founder of the national handyman franchise Rent-A-Husband. Kaile is also a national home improvement expert for the CBS Early Show, HGTV and Parade Magazine. When not on the road or working he spends his time teaching his newly adopted white shepherd, Maintenance, how-to ... Send your questions for Kaile to editor@themaineswitch.com.