The setting of 31.6 degrees on a miter saw primarily refers to the bevel angle commonly used for cutting crown molding. This specific angle, paired with a complementary miter angle, allows for precise cuts that accommodate the unique way crown molding sits on a wall.
Understanding 31.6° on a Miter Saw
When you set your miter saw to 31.6°, you are adjusting the blade's bevel angle—meaning the blade is tilted to the left or right, creating an angled cut along the thickness of the material. This particular setting is crucial for achieving the correct fit when installing crown molding.
The Significance of 31.6° for Crown Molding
The 31.6° setting on a miter saw is specifically designed to facilitate the complex angles required for crown molding. As noted in carpentry guides, "The 31.6° setting on a miter saw refers to the angle often used for cutting crown molding. When cutting crown molding, it is typically set at 31.6° on the bevel and 33.9° on the miter to accommodate the unique angles required."
Crown molding typically has a "spring angle," which is the angle at which it projects from the wall and ceiling. While this spring angle can vary (common ones are 38°, 45°, and 52°), the 31.6° bevel and 33.9° miter settings are standard for achieving perfect corners when cutting molding laid flat on the saw's table. This method, often called "compound miter cutting," simplifies the process by requiring only two settings on the saw, rather than complex calculations based on the wall and ceiling angles.
Typical Crown Molding Miter Saw Settings
For standard crown molding, the following compound miter saw settings are frequently used:
| Setting Type | Angle | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Bevel | 31.6° | Tilts the blade to create the angle along the thickness of the molding. |
| Miter | 33.9° | Rotates the blade left or right to create the angle across the width of the molding. |
These two angles work in conjunction to create cuts that seamlessly join together at inside or outside corners.
Practical Tips for Cutting Crown Molding
When utilizing the 31.6° (bevel) and 33.9° (miter) settings for crown molding, consider these practical insights:
- Test Cuts: Always perform test cuts on scrap pieces of molding to verify your settings and technique before cutting your final pieces.
- Molding Orientation: When cutting crown molding laid flat on the miter saw, it's essential to maintain consistent orientation. The edge that touches the wall should be against the saw's fence, and the edge that touches the ceiling should be on the saw's table.
- Inside vs. Outside Corners: The miter direction (left or right) will vary depending on whether you are cutting an inside or an outside corner. Familiarize yourself with the specific setup for each type of corner.
- Blade Sharpness: A sharp blade is crucial for clean cuts, especially with intricate profiles like crown molding.
- Safety First: Always follow proper safety procedures when operating a miter saw.
By understanding and utilizing the 31.6° bevel setting in conjunction with the 33.9° miter setting, you can achieve professional-looking crown molding installations with precision and ease.
