When it comes to home improvement, one of the most popular and noticeable ways to add value and style to your house is by installing crown molding. Crown molding is a decorative element that is added to the intersection of walls and ceilings and can be made from varied materials, including wood, plaster, polyurethane, and even PVC. So, crown molding is an excellent option if you want to add a touch of elegance to your home or cover up an unsightly crack.
If you are considering adding crown molding to your home, you should know a few things before starting. This guide will cover everything you need to learn about crown molding, from materials and installation to cost and maintenance.
What is Crown Molding?
A crown molding is an attractive finishing touch for capping cabinets and columns. They also cap interior walls where the wall transitions to the ceiling. The name comes from the fact that it is commonly placed at the top of a space.
Crown moldings are installed around the edge of a room to give it a finished look. They can be made from diverse materials, including wood, plastic, foam, and MDF (medium-density fiberboard).
What is the Purpose of Crown Moldings?
Crown moldings have been a popular decoration for centuries. They have a long and illustrious history that may date back to your family’s ancestors. They were originally designed for practical reasons. However, as time progressed, more and more interior designers began to see crown moldings as a way to add another layer of decoration to a room while still retaining their original purpose.
Crown moldings, as the name implies, have a major function: to clean up space between the walls and the ceiling. However, crown moldings have a few more advantages. For example, when installed correctly, the crown molding aids in lifting the area and creating the ceiling appear taller.
Another advantage of crown molding is that it helps to preserve surfaces. So if you’re unfortunate enough to notice flaws on your walls, crown molding is a trick that can help you hide them or prevent them in the future.
Benefits of Crown Molding
Available in an extensive range of materials, colors, and styles
- An inexpensive way to add value and style to your home
- Add a touch of polish to any room
- It can be used to cover up cracks or imperfections in your walls
- Help make a room appear larger and taller
- Protects your walls from damage
- Easy to clean and maintain
- It helps prevent moisture, wood expansion, pests, and other elements from entering your home
- Can hide wires and cables
What is Crown Molding Usually Made Of?
Traditionally, crown molding was made of plaster, but several more alternatives are now available. A wide variety of crown molding materials are available at most decorative stores. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which material works best for your space. One of the finest alternatives on the market is still plaster. One big reason is that you may continue to repeat the pattern, create molds of old designs, and replace damaged elements without replacing the entire piece.
Wood is another excellent option for crown molding. It is available in many different colors, sizes, and styles. Wood is also a relatively inexpensive option. And it’s easier to install than plaster, and maintenance is a breeze. Also, wood is much less likely to crack than other materials.
However, wood also has several disadvantages. Wood attracts insects, and leaving any wood unpainted becomes a breeding ground for all kinds of pests. To prevent this, keep an eye on any wood in your house, especially crown molding. The greatest approach to deal with this situation is to seal the wood or use a sealant before installation.
Another great choice for crown molding is to go with composite materials like extruded polystyrene, PVC, or vinyl. These moldings are easy to install and will save you time.
The advantage of composite moldings is that they can be used in place of traditional styles. They are also light and resistant to insects and wetness. Most importantly, they come in various colors, shapes, and sizes to suit any room.
In this roundup article, we bring you the top selections of crown moldings that can elevate your home’s interior design. From sleek and modern to classic and timeless, our carefully curated list showcases the best crown moldings on the market. Get ready to enhance your living spaces with style!
WM 49 MDF Crown Moulding for Walls
I recently decided to add some elegance to my living room by installing WM 49 Primed MDF Crown Moulding. The process of choosing the perfect crown moulding was easy, thanks to the variety of sizes and patterns available. The smooth, consistent surface of this moulding made it an easy installation, with no knots to worry about. I also appreciated that it could be painted with any high-quality latex-based paint for a more customized look.
One downside I encountered was that this moulding could only be used for interior use, which may not have been an issue if I were looking for something for an outdoor space. However, the durability of the scratch-resistant finish was a pro, as it helped me achieve a look that would last. Overall, WM 49 Primed MDF Crown Moulding was a great addition to my space, and I am happy with the final result.
Timeless Craftsman Woodgrain Millwork Primed MDF Crown Moulding for Walls
If you’re in the market for a new crown moulding for your walls, the Woodgrain Millwork’s Timeless Craftsman 425 might be worth considering. This 4–1/4 inch by 96 inch crown moulding comes primed and ready to be painted with any high-quality latex based paint. Its smooth and primed surface means there are no knots or imperfections to work around, making it a fantastic choice for a flawless finish.
Plus, the moulding’s simple design can be combined seamlessly with other patterns from the Timeless Craftsman collection to create unique and intricate builds. While it’s marketed as an interior product, it does support the application of premium acrylic latex paint, so it could make a statement on the exterior of your home, too.
Overall, the 425 is a solid, primed crown moulding that’s easy to install and offers plenty of styling options.
Add Elegance with 1.5″ Crown Molding
I recently used this lightweight Polystyrene Crown Moulding to enhance a room in my home. The moulding’s smooth, crisp surface and classic appearance added a touch of elegance. I loved that it was easy for me to install on my own, with the provided installation video series as a helpful guide. The high-density foam made it incredibly lightweight, which was perfect for my DIY project.
One of the standout features I noticed was the clean, precise ends, which made the installation process so much simpler. Plus, the moulding was perfect for concealing unsightly cables and other imperfections behind it. The fact that it could be painted any color I desired also made it a versatile choice for my space.
However, I did notice that while the material was waterproof, it was still designed for indoor use only. While this wasn’t a major issue for me, it might limit the product’s versatility for some users. Overall, I found that this Polystyrene Crown Moulding was a great addition to my home and would highly recommend it for those looking to add a touch of class and functionality to their space.
Affordable Classical Crown Molding for Interiors
The Nomastyl crown molding brings a classic touch to the interiors while keeping the costs low. The product arrives ready to be painted, making it a suitable choice for those who want to add their custom touch by selecting their desired color. Made from lightweight extruded polystyrene, this crown molding is easy to install and doesn’t require any specialized knowledge or tools.
The surface is smooth and crisp, providing an attractive finish, and it can even be painted to match your home’s decor. Despite its budget-friendly price, the Nomastyl crown molding is durable and sturdy, making it a reliable option for various home improvement projects.
Orac Decor High-Density Polyurethane Crown Moulding with Primed White Finish
This Orac Decor C216 crown moulding is a versatile and stylish addition to any space, boasting a modern design that can enhance your current decor. Crafted from high-density polyurethane foam, the moulding is resistant to moisture, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments. With its large profiles and lightweight construction, it eliminates build-up and provides crisp, clean lines.
Easy to install with Orac Decor’s proprietary adhesives, this 4in sample piece offers a 5.25in thickness and 6.75-inch face width. Suitable for ceiling and bathroom use, this crown moulding is a paintable option, providing a wide range of design possibilities. Featuring smooth lines and pronounced detailing, it stands out as a reliable and attractive choice for your home improvement projects.
Users reported a positive experience with this Orac Decor crown moulding, praising its ease of installation and overall quality. With a 5.0 rating and five reviews, this moulding proves to be a popular choice among homeowners and renovators. Add this stunning crown moulding to your project for an elevated look that you’ll be proud of.
Polystyrene Crown Molding — 1 1/4 in. x 4 3/4 in. x 78 3/4 in.
I purchased the NMC Copley Nomastyl GR coving, a 4-piece crown molding, for my kitchen ceiling makeover and I must say, it exceeded my expectations. The coving was effortless to work with thanks to its lightweight nature; I could easily cut using a fine-toothed saw and miter box. It gave my kitchen ceiling the luxurious look I was hoping for without the hefty price tag.
The high-density foam allowed the coving to adhere well to the wall with acrylic caulk, making installation a breeze. The surface was smooth and crisp, creating a classic crown appearance. I appreciated the option to choose a custom look by painting any color — black to contrast or white for a more elegant touch.
However, I did face some challenges during the installation. The pieces were somewhat fragile and prone to denting, and the seams had a tendency to show if not carefully concealed. But overall, the product held up well and gave the desired effect. Moreover, it saved me a considerable amount of time, money and energy compared to ordering and installing a ready-made wood crown.
Upon reflection, I would say this crown molding is ideal for homeowners dipping their feet into DIY projects or seeking an affordable option for rooms that aren’t high traffic areas. But for high-traffic spaces or areas where durability is crucial, wood or other more robust materials might be a better choice. Overall, I’m pleased with my decision to go with NMC Copley Nomastyl GR coving and it has breathed new life into my kitchen space.
White Unfinished Clean Scroll Crown Moulding for Ceiling
Recently, I tried out the “Hardwood White Unfinished Clean Scroll Crown Moulding” for my home makeover project, and let me tell you, it exceeded my expectations! The stunning embossed pattern of the clean scroll style perfectly complemented my room’s décor, and the unfinished finish allowed me to tailor it to my desired style.
While installing the moulding, I found the nail installation type was simple and easy to handle. It really gave my ceiling a nice touch of class and elegance, not to mention the clean scroll style evoked a sense of nature and growth.
As a pro tip, I suggest considering ordering a 4-inch sample from Ornamental before making a final purchase. Their 7 fashion moulding styles, such as rondele, celtic, whimsey, clean scroll, loose weave, wave, and cracked ice, provide a variety of options to suit your style preferences.
Overall, I’m very pleased with the 4.6-star rating and the positive reviews from users who have stained the moulding to achieve a beautiful and durable appearance. It’s a great addition to any home makeover project, and I highly recommend giving it a try!
Woodgrain Millwork Primed Crown Moulding for Wall Trim
Introducing the Woodgrain Millwork WM 49, a primed 9/16 in. x 3–5/8 in. x 96 in. crown moulding that adds an elegant touch to any interior space. With its smooth, consistent surface that is free from knots, this finger-jointed moulding is ready for painting with any high-quality latex-based paint. Installing the WM 49 requires common woodworking tools, making it a cinch to apply in any project. Additionally, this versatile crown moulding can be used to create mantels or cornices for a unique, custom look.
Available in standard profile and boasting moisture resistance to ensure durability, the WM 49 crown moulding is the perfect choice for transforming your walls and ceilings. As it is designed to be installed with nails, you’ll find installation a breeze with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking to enhance your home or add a personal touch to a larger space, this moulding will prove to be an asset.
Though there are no additional features included, the Woodgrain Millwork WM 49 crown moulding still boasts a full stick and is suitable for both interior and ceiling installations. With its impressive range of widths and lengths, this moulding is a must-have for any interior design project.
Though some may feel that it lacks a touch of personalization when compared to other craftsman-made mouldings on the market, the WM 49 crowns makes up for it with its seamless integration and high-quality finish that is ready to showcase your design vision to perfection.
5–1/2″ x 2–3/8″ x 6″ Floral Polyurethane Crown Molding Sample
This 5.5-inch long floral polyurethane crown molding sample from Outwater L. L. C. is a brilliant addition to any interior design project. Its classic, yet contemporary features make it perfect for adorning both ceilings and walls with a touch of architectural elegance.
The molding itself is lightweight yet strong, making it easy to handle during installation. However, one thing I found a bit challenging was cutting it to size using a miter saw. The 6-inch length makes it a perfect piece to preview the intricate design and profile.
Each piece of this crown molding is meticulously molded with crisp lines, adding an elegant detail to any room it adorns. It’s also factory primed, saving time and effort during painting. Despite being unfinished, it does come with a 30-day warranty.
But there were some unfortunate issues I faced during the review. Some pieces were damaged during shipping, and the overall visual appeal did not live up to the high expectations set by the product description. As for the ease of installation, well, it’s a two-edged sword. While it’s easy to install, it’s quite tricky to cut with a miter saw.
Overall, this long floral crown molding sample from Outwater L. L. C. presents some promising potential for adding a graceful touch to any room, but there is definitely room for improvement in terms of quality control and ease of use.
Woodgrain Millwork WM 45 9/16 in. x 5–1/4 in. x 96 in. Primed Crown Moulding
The Woodgrain Millwork WM 45 is a versatile option for adding a touch of elegance to any room. It’s a primed, finger-jointed crown moulding, designed to be installed where walls meet ceilings. It’s smooth and consistent in texture, with no knots or imperfections that might show up during the finishing process. It can be easily painted with any high-quality latex-based paint, providing a clean, professional look.
The moulding can be used to create a variety of designs, from mantels to cornices, making it a versatile addition to any room. It offers good durability and is moisture-resistant, ensuring it can withstand the typical wear and tear of a home environment. The moulding comes in pre-cut, full-stick lengths, making installation a breeze.
While the WM 45 Primed Finger-Jointed Crown Moulding offers a smooth surface and a variety of applications, it does have a few drawbacks. Some users have reported finding a few flaws in the material that rendered certain sections unusable. Additionally, the moulding only comes in 96-inch lengths, which might not be long enough for larger rooms or walls.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Woodgrain Millwork WM 45 is still a strong contender for those looking for a stylish, durable moulding solution at a fair price. It’s a consistent, smooth surface that’s easy to work with, and its variety of sizes and patterns makes it perfect for creating unique looks in any room.
Buyer’s Guide
Crown molding is a beautiful decorative element often added to the walls and ceilings of residential homes. Not only does it enhance the visual appeal of a room, but it can also improve the overall aesthetic and value of your property. If you’re considering investing in crown molding, this buyer’s guide will provide you with essential information to make an informed decision.
Important Features and Considerations
Material: Crown molding is typically made from wood, plastic, or foam, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Wood offers a natural look and high durability, but may require regular maintenance. Plastic and foam are low-maintenance alternatives, while foam is the lightest and most cost-effective option.
Design Styles
Design Profile: Crown moldings come in various design profiles, with simple to elaborate patterns. Popular options include Georgian, Rococo, and Victorian styles. Choose a design that complements your home’s architecture and interior style. If you’re unsure of your design options, consult with a professional for guidance.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation Types: Crown molding can be installed using adhesive, nails, or special brackets. Adhesive installation is generally recommended for plastic or foam products, while nails are suitable for wood. Consider the type of molding material and your personal expertise for installation preferences. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Cost Factors and Budgeting
Cost and Budgeting: The cost of crown molding varies depending on factors such as material, design, and complexity of installation. Determine your budget and prioritize essential features and designs for your project. Remember to account for additional costs like trim and accessories, as well as professional installation services if needed.
FAQ
What is Crown Molding?
Crown molding is a decorative element frequently seen at the junction of walls and ceilings in interior design. Its primary purpose is to lend a sense of grandeur, style, and sophistication to a room. Crown moldings come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, which makes it simple to find one that fits your home’s overall aesthetic.
Crown moldings are versatile and can be used to enhance a broad range of spaces, including entryways, dining rooms, bedrooms, and offices. They can also be made from materials such as wood, plaster, or plastic, depending on your preference and budget. Many homeowners prefer customizing their crown moldings with different paint colors, stains, or finishes to complement their decor.
What are the benefits of installing crown molding in your home?
Crown molding offers several advantages for homeowners, both in aesthetics and functionality. Firstly, it adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room, making it a popular choice for traditional and classic styles. Secondly, crown molding helps to define the lines between walls and ceilings, creating a balanced look that is visually appealing.
Crown moldings can also provide functional benefits, such as disguising imperfections or uneven surfaces on walls and hiding gaps or spaces between walls and ceilings. Some types of crown moldings can even improve the insulation in your home, helping to regulate temperature and reduce energy costs.
What types of materials can crown moldings be made from?
Crown moldings can be crafted from a range of materials, including wood, plaster, and plastic. Wood is a common material used for crown moldings, as it offers a natural and warm look. However, wood moldings may require occasional maintenance and refinishing to maintain their appearance.
Plaster crown moldings are another popular choice due to their durability and ease of installation. They do not require the same level of maintenance as wood moldings and can provide excellent insulation properties. Plastic crown moldings, on the other hand, are a budget-friendly and low-maintenance option suitable for those on a tight budget.
How much does it cost to install crown moldings?
The cost of installing crown moldings can vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the room, the material, and the complexity of the design. On average, homeowners can expect to spend between $2 and $10 per linear foot for materials and installation. Wood crown moldings may cost around $3 to $8 per linear foot, while plaster and plastic crown moldings can range from $2 to $10 per linear foot.
Additional costs, such as installation, repairs, and maintenance, should also be factored in. It is best to consult with a professional or contact local manufacturers and installers for a more accurate estimation of the costs involved.
Can I install crown moldings myself, or should I hire a professional?
While it is technically possible to install crown moldings yourself, it is highly recommended to hire a professional, particularly if you lack experience in home improvement or DIY projects. Professional installers are trained to identify potential issues and complications that may arise during the installation process, ensuring a clean, precise, and functional crown molding installation.
Hiring a professional also saves time and eliminates the need to purchase specialized tools and equipment. Additionally, professional installers can offer advice and guidance on selecting the most suitable materials and styles for your home and budget. Working with a professional will also help you avoid any accidents, mishaps, or mistakes that could result in damage to your home or injury.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when installing crown moldings?
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when installing crown moldings: (1) incorrect measuring or insufficient clearance for expansion and contraction of the molding material, (2) using the wrong adhesives or fasteners, and (3) attempting to install the molding too tightly or without proper support, leading to cracks or warping.
It is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and consult with a professional for any assistance or guidance required. Additionally, cleaning and preparing the walls and ceilings, and applying high-quality adhesives, sealants, and coatings can help ensure a successful and long-lasting crown molding installation.