Finish TradesQuestion 474 of 700

In finish carpentry, why are inside corners of base or crown molding often coped rather than mitered?

a.A coped joint fits tightly and stays closed even if the wall corner is not exactly 90 degrees or the wood shrinks
b.Coping is faster and requires no test fitting
c.A miter cannot be cut on molding
d.Coping eliminates the need to nail the trim

Explanation

A coped joint conforms one profile over the face of the other, so it stays tight when corners are out of square or the wood moves seasonally, unlike a butt miter that opens up. Coping is actually slower, miters can be cut on molding, and the trim still must be nailed.

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