Repairing scratches, cracks, dings, and similar problems with wood trim and other woodwork is easy in most cases. One of the reasons wood is the most popular building material is the fact that it’s easy to machine and work with standard tools. Minor scratches and gouges can be hidden or covered up, but you may want to replace pieces that are more seriously damaged.

Repairing gaps along mouldings
To fill gaps between mouldings and the ceiling or walls, apply a bead of siliconized-latex caulk. This is flexible enough to ride out any movement caused by moisture changes. Apply a 1/8-inch bead with a caulking gun and then dampen your finger with water and smooth the caulk.

Repairing molding corners
If mitered corners of base mouldings are separating, squeeze a little wood glue in the joint and re-nail with finishing nails. Set the heads and putty to match. If the nails don’t hold, ask your hardware dealer for trim screw—very narrow screws with a tiny head that can be driven with a drive bit in an electric screwdriver or drill.