Replies

1. 
   calvin | Jul 18, 2012 02:40pm | #1

   Stan

   I suppose there's a "golden mean" number for the size of the plinth, but I don't know it.

   To me it depends on the balance between the 3 elements you have coming together.  An ornate casing / base might want a "bigger" base to sit on and run into.

   Often certain lines on the plinth might want to jive with the base.

   What looks good?

   Easy answer is probably 1/2 to 3/4" higher than the base.

   I always ask or mock up and show a customer.  If you don't, you might hear- "I thought that would be taller..................."

   Best of luck.

2. 
   NicholsConstruction | Jul 18, 2012 09:12pm | #2

   I agree with what Calvin sais. I also think that a plinth

   generally looks the best if it is proud of the fattest part of the baseboard and/or

   casing by about a quarter of an inch. So depending on the thickness of the base and

   casing, you might want to rip some off the back of your plinth.

   Len

3. 
   DanH | Jul 18, 2012 10:00pm | #3

   As a practical matter, the plinth should have a "reveal" in both thickness and width wherever it abuts other trim.  (Without this reveal there is no point in using a plinth -- it's purpose is to mate trim pieces that otherwise would not fit together nicely.)  As suggested, about 1/4" thicker than the thickest abutting trim, or maybe a little more. 

   In terms of height and width, consider that if you want to emphasize the vertical dimension then the plinth should be relatively tall. If you want to emphasize the horizontal dimension, though (which you might with a "prairie" or "craftsman" style), the plinth should be squatter.

4. 
   DanH | Jul 18, 2012 10:01pm | #4

   (Well, I posted something but you'll have to wait until tomorrow for the forum gods to bless it.)