How to Install Wainscott

Wainscot refers to a finishing element you can set up in your room. This consists of a panel board, a base board, and a chair rail.

Required Materials

• panel board stock
• base board stock
• chair rail stock
• caulking
• carpenter’s glue
• finish nails
• hammer
• circular saw
• awl
• stud finder
• pry bar
• measuring tape
• clamps

Steps to Install Wainscott

1. Remove the existing base board in the room. Use a pry bar to loosen the sides and middle of the base board and remove the board.
2. Locate the studs using the stud finder. When you find a stud, pinpoint its center. Create a line from the floor to an inch above the stud’s location. Find all the other studs and do the same process. If a stud finder is not available, you can use a nail to probe the wall board.
3. Attach the base board is the next step. Take the first portion of the base board and install it using 6D finish nails. Apply glue to the edges of the board and ram the second stock against it. Nail the stocks and clean any excess glue.
4. Install the panel board. Cut the board to the appropriate length and glue the edges together. Create an “X” across the inner panel board. Use 6D finish nails in affixing the panel boards firmly to the studs.
5. Install the chair rail on the panel board is the final step. Cut the chair rail and slide it accordingly to the spaces on the panel. Secure the rail to the studs with 6D finish nails.