Step 10: Position the Blocking

man positioning the blocking for wall niche installation
Photo: Laura Moss
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Tip the blocking into the ope ning and use a hammer to tap it into place. The horizontal blocking should sit flush with the edges of the opening at the top and bottom, tight between vertical studs.

TOH Tip: Cut the blocking pieces slightly longer than necessary (leave just your pencil line when cutting) to ensure a tight fit. This will keep them from slipping behind the wall.
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    Tools List

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    • utility scissors
      Utility scissors
    • studfinder
      Stud finder
    • straightedge guide
      Straightedge, to mark cut lines between the lath pieces
    • utility knife
      Utility knife, to score the drywall
    • flat prybar
      Small pry bar
    • reciprocating saw
      Reciprocating saw, to cut any lath and plaster and to remove any obtrusive studs
    • circular saw
      Circular saw, to cut the 2x4 blocking
    • drill
      Drill/driver, fitted with a 1⁄8-inch drill bit
    • caulk gun
      Caulk gun
    • paintbrush
      Paintbrush

    Shopping List

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    1. Niche
    Choose a dense polyurethane niche in a design that mimics surrounding moldings.

    2. Cardboard
    to create a template.

    3. Pole system
    (or painter's tape) to hold the plastic sheeting in place.4. Plastic sheeting

    5. Painter's tape
    to secure plastic around work window.

    6. Adhesive caulk

    7. Paint