What is the proper height to install a chair rail?
On One Hand: Traditional Placement Is Two to OneTraditional chair rail height is at the dividing line between the upper two-thirds of a wall and the lower one-third. Because ceiling heights differ, the measurements will differ from room to room, but the 2 to 1 ratio is architecturally classic for decorative moldings.On the Other: Place It Where It Looks BestIf your ceiling is unusually low or high, the 2 to 1 chair rail height might look odd. With a 12-foot ceiling, your chair rail might feel more like a handrail. If you have a 7- to 8-foot ceiling, you may feel like your eyes are directed toward the floor.Bottom LinePlace your chair rail where it looks the best in your room. Stay as close to the traditional placement as you can, but adjust it up or down as needed. Since chair rails were originally used to protect walls from damage from chair backs, use one of your dining chairs as a guide. Use masking tape to test your chair rail placement.
