17 Finish Carpentry Flashcards
1
Q
What is the primary function of interior trim?
A
Decorative and functional, concealing gaps and rough edges where walls meet floors, ceilings, doors, and windows.
2
Q
What are the two terms often used interchangeably for interior trim?
A
Casing and molding.
3
Q
Why is it important to respect existing trim when replacing it?
A
It helps establish the character of a room.
4
Q
What should you do if existing molding is in decent condition?
A
Carefully remove and save it.
5
Q
What is one option if the original type of molding is no longer available?
A
Locate new molding with a similar feeling.
6
Q
What is a recommended tool for finish carpentry?
A
Pneumatic nailers.
7
Q
Fill in the blank: For accurate measurements, start from the _______.
A
1-in. mark.
8
Q
What is the purpose of a framing square in trim work?
A
To quickly check if a door or window frame is square.
9
Q
What is a combination square used for?
A
Marking square and miter cuts, and as a depth or marking gauge.
10
Q
What tool is essential for making complicated beveled miter cuts?
A
Power miter saw.
11
Q
What is the purpose of a plate joiner?
A
To cut slots into board edges for joining with biscuits.
12
Q
What type of blade should be used for razor-smooth cuts?
A
80-tooth carbide-tipped blade for a 10-in. power miter saw.
13
Q
What is the advantage of a sliding compound miter saw?
A
It can cut a miter and a bevel in one stroke.
14
Q
What is the purpose of a coping saw in trim work?
A
To cut along molding profile lines for tight fits.
15
Q
What is the most common nail type for light trim?
A
Finish nails.
16
Q
What should be done before planing existing trim?
A
Use a magnet to scan the wood for nails or screws.
17
Q
Fill in the blank: Sandpaper is rated according to the concentration of grit per square inch and the size of the _______.
A
abrasive particles.
18
Q
What is the typical grit range for very fine sandpaper?
A
220–240.
19
Q
Which abrasive is most commonly used for sanding wood?
A
Aluminum oxide.
20
Q
What is the purpose of using a router?
A
Edge-joining, template cutting, mortising, and flush trimming.
21
Q
True or False: A power miter saw is not necessary if only a couple of doorways are being cased.
A
True.
22
Q
What tool is useful for shaping contours and sanding in tight places?
A
Palm sander.
23
Q
What type of sandpaper is preferred for woodworkers?
A
Open-coat sandpaper.
24
Q
Fill in the blank: A miter trimmer is also known as a _______.
A
Lion Miter-Trimmer®.
25
What is open-coat sandpaper?
Sandpaper with only one-third to two-thirds of the surface coated with grit
26
What type of sandpaper is used for sanding metal?
Closed-coat sandpaper
27
What is a recommended method to bond MDF joints?
Double-glue joints or apply glue size to seal the edges
28
What type of glue is considered the best all-around choice for MDF?
Polyurethane glue
29
What is the advantage of pneumatic finish nailers compared to hand nailing?
Pressure settings can be adjusted so the nail goes just below the surface
30
What is the gauge of standard finish nailers?
15-gauge
31
What gauge do brad nailers shoot?
18-gauge to 20-gauge
32
What is the weight of a small pin nailer?
Less than 5 lb.
33
What is the recommended cordless drill/driver size for most carpenters?
3/8-in., 12-volt
34
What is the function of a hand brad pusher?
Used when there are not many brads to drive
35
What materials can trim include?
* Custom-milled hardwoods
* Softwood boards
* Medium-density fiberboard (MDF)
* Polymer moldings
36
What are some options for trim?
* Crown molding
* Window casing
* Picture molding
* Chair rail
* Baseboard
* Door casing
37
Why should you buy trim from a local shop that mills its own?
To ensure it is straight, knot-free, and stored properly
38
What is a common issue with stock trim from lumberyards?
It is often warped
39
What is the recommended moisture content for trim?
7% to 10%
40
What is finger-jointed molding?
Molding that joins short sections of clear softwood
41
What are some common molding profiles?
* Quarter-round
* Ogee
* Splay
* Cove
* Fillet
* Ovolo
* Astragal
42
What is the typical size of standard molding stock?
1-in. stock (actual size, 3/4 in.)
43
What is the advantage of polymer millwork for crown moldings?
Simplifies installation due to monolithic casting
44
What is a disadvantage of MDF?
It can swell from ambient moisture
45
What should be done to MDF cut edges to prevent moisture absorption?
Seal with two coats of shellac-based primer
46
What is a key characteristic of polymer moldings compared to wood moldings?
They won't warp, split, rot, or get eaten by termites
47
What is the installation advantage of polymer moldings?
They come ready to install and are less labor-intensive
48
What is a recommended tool for measuring trim accurately?
A sharp pencil or utility knife
49
What should you do if you're unsure of the measurement when cutting trim?
Cut the piece a little long
50
What is a good practice for marking scrap ends of boards?
Pencil a prominent X on the scrap ends
51
What type of saw should be used for trimming polymer moldings?
A 12-tpi to 13-tpi saw
52
What should be done before cutting trim to ensure accuracy?
Check the accuracy of power-saw miter-stop settings
53
What is a common method for ensuring tight trim joints?
Accurate layouts, sharp saws, and consistent methods
54
What should you check before cutting trim with a power saw?
The accuracy of power-saw miter-stop settings by cutting a few joints from scrap.
55
How should cut lines be made?
Cut lines should be consistent, regardless of whether the sawblade cuts through the middle of a cut-line or just past it.
56
What is the importance of keeping tools sharp?
Sharp tools are easier to push and less likely to move the stock being cut.
57
How do handsaws typically cut?
Handsaws usually cut on the push stroke.
58
What is a miter joint?
A miter joint splits a 90º corner in half, with a 45º cut on each board.
59
What should be done if door or window frames aren’t square?
Each miter should be slightly more or less than 45º to bisect the angle present.
60
What is a scarf joint?
A scarf joint is created by beveling the ends of two pieces of trim at a 60º angle and overlapping them.
61
What is back-cutting in trim work?
Back-cutting is the process of slightly beveling the edges of trim to ensure a tighter joint.
62
What is the purpose of using biscuits in joints?
Biscuits help keep butt joints or miter joints from spreading due to seasonal expansion and contraction.
63
How should trim boards be secured when using several pieces?
Center end joints over stud centers or use angle nailing.
64
What is a coped joint?
A coped joint is created by mitering one piece and back-cutting along the profile of the molding.
65
What is the recommended approach for leveling trim in older houses?
Do not try to level trim; instead, ensure trim edges are roughly parallel to floors and ceilings.
66
What is the purpose of applying yellow carpenter’s glue to trim joints?
To increase holding power and keep joints closed.
67
What are common types of fasteners used in finish carpentry?
20-ga. brad, 18-ga. brad, 4d finish nail, 6d finish nail, 8d finish nail, 2½-in. screw.
68
Fill in the blank: A ________ is used to join two pieces of trim together and prevents them from spreading.
biscuit
69
True or False: It is necessary to predrill softwood trim to prevent splits.
False
70
What should be done before painting trim?
Caulk all gaps between the trim and the wall.
71
What is the advantage of using a coping saw in trim work?
It allows for precise back-cutting along the profile of the molding for a better fit.
72
What should you do if the first cut of the coping saw does not fit well?
Shave it with a utility knife or recut it from scratch.
73
What is the purpose of casing a door?
To cover the gaps around a door frame
74
What are the three pieces that typically make up door casing?
* Two side casings (leg casings)
* One head casing
75
What are the three common casing joints?
* Mitered
* Square cut
* Corner block
76
True or False: Mitered joints are preferred for trim that is molded.
True
77
What should you do before painting to ensure a smooth finish?
Caulk all gaps between the casing and the wall
78
What is a reveal in the context of door casing?
The setback of the inside edge of casings from the frame edges, typically 1/4 in.
79
Fill in the blank: Use a _______ to snip nail points to minimize splits.
nipper
80
What is the maximum allowable extension of jamb edges beyond finish surfaces?
1/16 in.
81
What should you use to fill holes in pre-finished trim?
Wax crayon putty
82
What should you do if the frame edges are level or below the wall surfaces?
Leave them alone
83
How should you prepare the trim stock before finishing?
Sand rough spots with 120-grit to 180-grit sandpaper
84
What is the recommended method for cutting mitered joints to ensure a good fit?
Use an adjustable bevel to record angles and a protractor to bisect them
85
What is the purpose of using biscuits in butt joints?
To prevent spreading
86
How should you adjust the length of head casing if it will overhang the side casing?
Add the overhang to the head-casing measurement
87
What is the benefit of predrilling when nailing hardwood trim?
To minimize splits
88
What tool is recommended to ensure plumb and square framing?
A 4-ft. level and a square
89
What is a plinth block?
A thicker block used at the bottom corners of casing
90
How do you repair dings from doors or trim?
Use a hot, damp cloth and a steam iron to swell the wood, then sand lightly
91
Fill in the blank: When installing new or reattaching old door casing, wait until the _______ are finished.
floors
92
What is the purpose of using a combination square as a depth gauge?
To mark reveal lines accurately
93
What should you do if the head casing does not butt squarely to the side casings?
Angle trim the joints slightly for a tight fit
94
What should be done with excess glue after installing casing?
Wipe it up with a damp cloth
95
How should you cut the bottom of the side casing when installing mitered casing?
Square-cut the bottom
96
True or False: It is recommended to finish the trim before installing it.
True
97
What type of brads should be used for tacking up casings?
18-ga. or 20-ga. brads
98
What should you do after cutting prefinished trim?
Wipe saw blades with solvent to clean them
99
What should be used to draw the joint together until the glue dries?
Miter clamps or 18-ga. brads
## Footnote
These tools help ensure a tight joint during assembly.
100
What type of nails should be used to attach casing to rough jambs?
6d or 8d finish nails
## Footnote
These nails are suitable for securing casing to rough jambs.
101
How far do stool horns typically extend beyond side casings?
3⁄4 in.
## Footnote
This measurement varies depending on existing casings.
102
What is the purpose of marking 1⁄4-in. reveals along the frame jambs?
To determine the overall length of the stool
## Footnote
This helps in accurately fitting the stool in the window frame.
103
What tool is used to ensure the width of the window frame is transferred to the stool stock?
Combination square
## Footnote
This tool aids in marking precise measurements.
104
When should you cut the horns of the stool to their final length?
After ensuring the stool is parallel and 1⁄16 in. back from the sash rail
## Footnote
This allows for paint thickness consideration.
105
What should be done to the underside and ends of the stool before installation?
Lightly sand and prime
## Footnote
This prevents moisture absorption from condensation.
106
What is a common characteristic of arched window casings compared to standard casings?
They require custom-ordering for older arched windows
## Footnote
Proper fitting is essential for aesthetics and function.
107
What needs to be done to the apron when installing a window stool?
Nailed and glued to the undersides of the stool
## Footnote
This ensures stability for the stool.
108
What is the typical pitch angle for windowsills?
14º to 20º
## Footnote
This pitch allows for effective water shedding.
109
What is the recommended gap between wood flooring and walls during baseboard installation?
1⁄2 in.
## Footnote
This gap accommodates seasonal expansion and contraction.
110
True or False: Baseboards should be installed before door casing.
False
## Footnote
Baseboards should butt to side casing or plinth blocks.
111
What should be done if the bottom of the baseboard cannot be scribed and cut?
Use base shoe to cover gaps
## Footnote
Base shoe effectively conceals any uneven cuts.
112
What should you do to prevent drafts when painting the casing?
Caulk along the underside of the stool
## Footnote
This helps create a good seal.
113
How often should casing be nailed when working around a window?
Every 16 in.
## Footnote
Consistent nailing ensures structural integrity.
114
What type of nails is used to secure the inside edge of casing to the frame edges?
1-in. brads
## Footnote
These are suitable for lighter applications.
115
What is a pro tip for locating studs before installing crown molding?
Use painter's tape to indicate centers of studs
## Footnote
This method is cleaner than using pencil marks.
116
Fill in the blank: The _______ of a stool must be rabbeted at the same angle as a pitched sill.
Underside
## Footnote
This allows for a level top face of the stool.
117
What should be done with nails after installing casing?
Set and fill those nails
## Footnote
This gives a clean finish to the installation.
118
What is the main difference in installation order between window casing and door casing?
Window side casing sits on the stool horns
## Footnote
This affects how the trim is aligned.
119
What is the function of a combination square in window stool installation?
To transfer measurements accurately
## Footnote
It helps ensure precise cuts and fits.
120
What should be done if the casing is not wide enough for biscuit joinery?
Angle 6d finish nails to draw the joint together
## Footnote
This technique helps avoid splitting the casing.
121
How can you locate a stud behind drywall?
Rap the base of walls with your knuckle and drive in a 6d finish nail to locate the stud exactly.
## Footnote
Stud finders may be less reliable with plaster walls due to irregularities.
122
What is the purpose of shimming baseboards?
To elevate the baseboard about 1 inch above the floor for contouring.
## Footnote
This is especially important if the floors are irregular.
123
What techniques are used for baseboard joinery?
* Miter outside corners
* Cope inside corners
* Glue all joints before nailing them off.
124
How should baseboards be nailed to ensure stability?
Use two 8d nails at every other stud center and a single 4d finish nail top and bottom for mitered corners.
125
What is the function of quarter-rounds when used with baseboards?
To hide irregularities between the top of the baseboard and the wall.
126
What is crown molding and how does it differ from cornices?
Crown molding dresses up the wall-ceiling joint, while cornices are formed from several boards.
## Footnote
Cornices are typically more elaborate than crown molding.
127
What should you do if joists run parallel to a wall when installing crown molding?
Install a row of triangular nailing blocks along the tops of walls.
128
What is the purpose of a seating gauge in crown molding installation?
To determine the angle at which the crown molding will be installed.
129
Fill in the blank: When nailing molding, you should nail roughly every ______ ft.
3 ft.
130
What is the recommended method for cutting crown molding?
Miter-cut the crown molding upside down in the miter box.
131
What are the two types of false beams mentioned?
* Ladder frame
* Box beam
132
What is the first step in constructing a box beam?
Bolt plywood strips to the predrilled I-beam.
133
What materials are used for modern wainscoting?
* MDF panels
* Stock molding
134
How are frame rails and stiles constructed for wainscoting?
Construct from clear, straight 1x4s and use a biscuit joiner to splice board ends.
135
What is a bolection molding?
A shaped molding that adds visual interest and has a rabbeted back edge.
136
How should gaps around MDF panels be treated in wainscoting?
Leave a 1-in. gap around each panel, which will be covered with stock molding.
137
True or False: Hand nailing is preferred for attaching crown molding.
False.
