Crown molding is an elegant finish that adds a graceful flair to a living area, dining room, hallway, or bedroom. It provides a magnificent link between the wall and ceiling, offering a smooth break from the sharp intersections. It may also be used for cabinets or doors and window hoods.

Crown molding comes in different materials that are readily available depending on your unique needs and style. They include wood or other manufactured material such as MDF, polyurethane, and aluminum. Each material has its own merits and challenges- Be sure to do some research before settling on your ideal molding.

What factors will influence your choice of material?

Your selection will probably be affected by these basic conditions;

 Your budget                                   

At the end of the day, your pocket will determine the material you opt for. Hardwood like Mahogany, for instance, is relatively more expensive than Polyurethane.

The design

What look are you looking for? Different material cast a room in a different light. If you want to paint over the molding, most polyurethane material comes ready to paint. If you are going for an earthy glow, wood finishing is probably the best.

The area to put up the molding

The section where you want to put the molding will dictate the material you select. Bathrooms and kitchens are prone to elements of humidity and therefore need molding that is resistant to rotting and warping. Exterior surfaces will need a material that is mostly heat resistant.

The options:

Wood

Wood can either be hardwood or softwood. Hardwoods like Oak and Mahogany stain handsomely and add color and warmth to any room.

Softwoods such as Pine are a cheaper alternative to hardwood because the raw material is more readily available. They are also easier to cut and sand down and are a good alternative for molding that will be painted.

Wood is often considered as a lofty choice of molding because solid wood is considered sturdy. This of course will depend on the type as hardwoods are generally stronger than softwoods. Wood is also customizable and will be regarded as more valuable than other materials such as MDF and polyurethane, which are cheaper alternatives.

However, this material is not water-proof in its unfinished state. This means that it will be prone to damage if exposed to humidity unless a waterproof finishing is applied. It also tends to expand and contract due to changes in temperature and humidity, making it vulnerable to warping and therefore a poor choice for spaces such as bathrooms. In addition to this, wood molding is likely to be attacked by bug infestations, thereby requiring the proper finishing and regular maintenance.

Medium-density fibreboard (MDF)

MDF is a type of engineered wood made of wood fiber, resin, and wax. It is an inexpensive alternative to wood. It varies in density, glue type, size, moisture content, and thickness. The thicker and denser the MDF board, the more costly it is likely to be.

It will not split when cutting and is resistant to warping, making it ideal for bathroom and kitchen spaces as well as cabinet doors. Because it is made from a fine grain, it achieves a better and smoother finish. It can also be painted with any variety of paint making it a highly versatile type of molding. Often compared to solid wood, it is considered a cheaper option that is still as strong and that can last for a good, long while with proper maintenance.

On the flip side, it scratches very easily and will not be repairable when this happens, unlike wood, which is easily sanded down. Moreover, it gets damaged when exposed to extreme heat, making it unfavorable for outdoor furniture or fittings.

Aluminum

This is often used for exteriors. It comes pre-formed for inside and outside corners, eliminating the need for miter cuts and therefore making installation easy. It is easy to cut with steel cutting saw blades and to install like conventional molding.

Flex

This is the molding used for curved walls, windows, or doorways. It is flexible and will not break or split, making it most ideal for such surfaces.

Despite being less costly than a carpentry job however, it is relatively more expensive than other molding material and will need customization and special ordering.

Poly-vynil chloride (PVC)

This plastic material is ideal for spaces where humidity is a concern such as bathroom or exterior surfaces. Molding made out of PVC will be resistant to warping, rotting, and growth of mildew.

However, its sheer composition limits its profile option while its smooth surface makes it difficult to paint even while the paint will be advisable to cover the plastic gleam.

Polyurethane

The darling of our collection, polyurethane is quite relatively more affordable than other materials and is resistant to insect damage and rotting. Because it is water-resistant, it is ideal for almost any space, including the kitchen and bathroom. It is light and therefore very easy to work with and install. It also comes pre-primed and ready to paint, making your work a whole lot easier as compared to other material that needs to be primed beforehand and then painted.

Whatever material you opt for, make sure it is one that fits perfectly with your needs as well as your budget constraints. It is probably most prudent to opt or the most versatile material. Check out our polyurethane molding options for your best pick!