Installing a chair rail adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room. A chair rail is a decorative molding that is mounted on the wall, typically at around 32 inches from the floor. It serves both as decoration and as protection from chairs accidentally bumping into walls. Follow these 13 steps to install a chair rail in your home.

1. Measure the room: Determine the perimeter of your room to calculate the total length of chair rail molding you will need. Add 10-15% extra for cutting and fitting.

2. Choose the height: Common placement of chair rails is between 32 and 36 inches above the floor, but you can adjust the height based on personal preference or existing architectural features.

3. Select your chair rail: Look for quality wood molding that fits well with your room’s existing design and décor.

4. Gather materials: In addition to the chair rail molding, you will need a saw (preferably a miter saw), measuring tape, level, pencil, hammer, finishing nails, nail set, and wood filler.

5. Cut the molding: Measure and cut the molding to fit on each wall of the room, using a miter saw to create 45-degree angles on each end where two pieces meet in a corner.

6. Mark and prepare the wall: Use a level and pencil to create a continuous horizontal line around the room at the desired height of the chair rail.

7. Locate wall studs: Use a stud finder or knock on walls with your knuckles to find studs in your walls for secure nail placement.

8. Dry-fit pieces: Hold each piece of cut molding against the wall with its bottom edge aligned along the marked horizontal line making sure it fits correctly before securing it in place.

9. Apply adhesive (optional): Some people like to apply construction adhesive along with nails for additional hold while installing chair rails.

10. Nail the chair rail: Use a hammer and finishing nails to secure the molding to the wall, positioning nails approximately 16 inches apart and at a slight upward angle.

11. Hammer in flush: Use a nail set to sink the nailheads slightly below the surface of the molding without damaging the wood.

12. Fill nail holes: Use wood filler to fill any visible nail holes and smooth with a putty knife or your finger.

13. Apply paint or stain (optional): If desired, apply paint or stain to match your room’s existing décor.

With these 13 steps, you should be able to successfully install a new chair rail in your home. This addition will not only enhance your room’s visual appeal but also protect your walls from potential damage.