I live in a 1937 Streamline Moderne home. It is a small and humble version of Streamline Moderne. Now and then when I try to fix things, I run into obstacles due to building and finishing materials standards having changed. I need guidance and I’m looking for the right place to discuss these sort of issues.
Today’s issue: 1937 quarter round moulding used to finish off the floor between the baseboard and the flooring. I am looking for a true 1/2″ quarter round. Current day 1/2″ quarter round is not a true measurement. It’s a fraction smaller. Current day 3/4″ quarter round seems to be a true measurement.
Geez, can anyone give me advice about this and future restoration questions?
Thank you so much, KTLN
Replies
Are you asking about the actual piece of wood or a router/shaper bit? I've probably got an answer either way.
If you are asking about the wood is it painted?
I will reply with some info with answers to the above.
Chris Norman
Norman Preservation Services
Dear Chris Norman,
Thank you so much for your speedy reply. I am simply trying to find a milled piece of wood that can be mitre cut and fit into an empty space where a few inches of original quarter round moulding broke off years ago.
I have found that I am probably measuring the existing moulding that I am trying to match to. Yes, it is painted and when I measure very, very carefully, it seems to me that the moulding is 5/8" x 9/16". Maybe over time it hsd been sanded so that 1/16" was worn off, what I am guessing was a 5/8" x 5/8" original.
My solution is to go to a local lumber yard, pick up a couple feet of 5/8" x 5/8" quarter round, take it to a nearby mill and have them shear off 1/16". I don't know what else to do.
OK, thanks a million for your attention.
Best,
KTLN
Hello again,
I think the solution is going to be pretty painless. I suggest you get the 5/8" stock you mention and remove the material with a block plane or even a sanding block. To help guide the removal you may find a template made of cardstock to match the existing quarter round useful. The usual minimum charge at a mill is $20 which is half the cost of a good new block plane or at least five times as much as a sanding block. The best part of the doing it yourself will be the satisfaction of learning something new and successfully making this custom piece.
Two other things: you may get more responses in the Breaktime forum for house related questions, and I will always be happy to offer any advice I can- just ask.
Good luck,
Chris
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