How to Install a Cornice Board
Cornice board are rigid window treatments usually constructed of plywood. They are heavy and must be properly attached to the wall to avoid damage and injury. Cornices are a good way to add height to a room by extending the window treatment all the way to the ceiling.
Things You Will Need
- L-shaped brackets
- Drill
- 2-inch screws
- Screw anchors
- 1/2-inch screws
- Tape measure
- Pencil
Padded fabric-covered cornices are good for a formal room. Painted cornices are more casual. A cornice covered with wallpaper will blend into the wall behind it, accenting the view from your window.
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Measure the length of your cornice, using a tape measure. If it is more than 6 feet long, use three brackets; otherwise, use two. Measure and mark the center of your window, using a pencil.
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Mark the position for your brackets on the wall at the desired height of the top of your cornice. The brackets should be evenly distributed along the length of the cornice. The cornice should be centered on the window.
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Drill a pilot hole with a small drill bit for the holes in each bracket. If the hole is in a stud, you may just attach the bracket with 2-inch screws. Attach the bracket with the horizontal side at the top.
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Drill a hole the size of the anchor for all the holes in the brackets to be installed in sheetrock. Hammer in the anchors. Screw the brackets to the wall with the horizontal side at the top, using the drill.
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Lay the cornice on the brackets. Drill pilot holes through the holes on the top of the bracket into the underside of the top of the cornice board. Use the small screws and the drill to attach the cornice to the brackets.
Tip
Hang your cornice at the ceiling to add height to your windows. If your cornice does not have a top, use two L-shaped brackets evenly spaced along each side of the cornice.
Warning
The cornice should be long enough to cover all drapery hardware.
If you are hanging the cornice at ceiling level, leave enough space for the board at the top of your cornice.
Tips
- Hang your cornice at the ceiling to add height to your windows.
- If your cornice does not have a top, use two L-shaped brackets evenly spaced along each side of the cornice.
Warnings
- The cornice should be long enough to cover all drapery hardware.
- If you are hanging the cornice at ceiling level, leave enough space for the board at the top of your cornice.
Writer Bio
Camela Bryan's first published article appeared in "Welcome Home" magazine in 1993. She wrote and published SAT preparation worksheets and is also a professional seamstress who has worked for a children's theater as a costume designer and in her own heirloom-sewing business. Bryan has a Bachelor of Science in chemical engineering from the University of Florida.
Photo Credits
- Curtain image by RUZANNA ARUTYUNYAN from Fotolia.com
- Curtain image by RUZANNA ARUTYUNYAN from Fotolia.com
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