Are there different styles of crown molding?

Tan ceiling with white molding
Crown molding is a decorative finishing element typically used for capping cabinets, columns, and, interior walls at the point where the wall meets the ceiling. There are molding that are designed for both inside and outside. There are many types and sizes of molding to choose before you start your project.

What are the different types of material used for crown molding? There are different types of crown molding material and one may suit you better than another. The three main types are wood, plaster and MDF, or medium density fiberboard. The types of crown molding material all can add a great dash of design to a room and one is not really better than another, but the way in which you work with the material is different and of course, the cost is different and that may be the ultimate decision maker for you.

Wood can be left as a natural look or stained or painted. The wood types come in several options and some are better for painting and others are better to be left in their natural state. Some wood available for crown molding are pine, poplar, cherry, oak and maple.

Plaster can be the most customizable since each is really made individually in a mold. It can be painted, and the intricate designs are elegant. Since this type does add the most elegance and rich look, it is also usually the most expensive of the types.

MDF, the medium fiberboard, might be as affordable as wood and can offer some great looks to a room. The MDF is a flexible and paintable crown molding so it can be fun to work with and to paint. The only word of caution about this type is that it should not be installed in a kitchen or bathroom because the moisture can make it warp.

When considering the types of crown molding. Which is best, can be about the look and the budget that you have for your renovation project. The best choice is the one that meets your needs.

Learning how to install crown molding yourself can save some handyman fees. Measuring to make sure the piece that you get will fit into the corner or on the wall the way you envision it is your first task. Some stores like Home Depot will have single pieces available so that you can try a style out without investing in many of moldings right away.

Cut the corners of the molding at the angle that is needed for it to sit right on the wall, this can be done by using a coping saw. Learning how to cut crown molding is not that hard if you use the correct tools for the job. Begin with the straight pieces before you do the corner pieces. Understand how the pieces will fit together before putting them up.

What are the types of crown molding? Which is best? Plaster or wood is the best for bathroom and kitchen and MDF for other rooms. The three types offer a nice variety to choose from. Buying a corner block might help you decide on the size and the material that you'll ultimately want to use for the project. A bit of planning, some good measuring and patience with the process can make putting up crown molding a great weekend project. It's sure to be one that you are proud of when it is finished.