Crown molding is one of the most beautiful additions you can make to your home. Suitable for all rooms, the molding pulls the eye up to make your space feel larger while also adding an elegant touch that increases the home's value.
Though you might think that installing crown molding won't work with your budget or that the accents don't match your home, learning the basics can help you see why this molding is right for you and how to fit it into your budget.
“We know what we are, but know not what we may be." – William Shakespeare
What is Crown Molding?
If you don't have much experience with home decorating, you may not know the basics of crown molding. This refers to molding pieces installed around the top of the room. They are common in kitchens and living rooms, but many homeowners nowadays are now using in bedrooms and hallways, too.
As a type of architectural design, the molding usually sits on top of cabinets where they meet the ceiling as well as doors. With the molding available from home improvement stores, you can choose the right type and size for your home. Some of these pieces measure as wide as seven inches thick to make a great impression.
Your Choice of Materials
Many people do not realize that molding comes in so many different materials.
- One of the more common options is wood crown molding as it lasts longer than other materials and is quite affordable. You can choose from wood molding in different stains or finishes and pick pieces that come plain and ready to paint.
- For another option, PVC molding is a smart pick for kitchens and other rooms with a lot of humidity because the material can stand up better to moisture.
- There is also plaster molding that lets you pick from intricate and decorative styles that match your home.
- Some homeowners also like polystyrene molding, which is very easy to install.
Cost of Crown Molding
When you look at crown molding cost, you need to consider both the cost of the molding and its installation.
- Polystyrene is the most affordable material and is often available for $1 or less per square foot.
- At up to $4 per square foot, PVC molding is one of the most expensive options.
- If you decide on wood molding, you might find plain pieces priced at $1 per square foot. The more elaborately designed molding pieces can go for up to $25 per square foot or more.
- With plaster molding, you might spend as much as $30 or more per square foot.
Installation Costs
One of the best things about installing crown molding is that you can often do the job yourself. You just need to measure the room and get pieces cut to fit. Some types of molding even come with a foam adhesive that has a paper backing you peel off before sticking the molding to the wall.
Other types of crown molding require professional installation, such as plaster molding. Working with a professional installer ensures that the molding will remain in place for years to come. This can add hundreds of dollars or more to your budget.
Choosing the Right Design
Though crown molding fits in all types of homes, you need to make sure that you pick the right design. Something more intricate with dovetail joints may not look right in a rustic home filled with antiques. At the same time, a plain design that features thin edges may not fit in a modern home.
Many companies now offer samples that let you try the molding at home before you buy. You can use small crown molding ceiling pieces to see which style is perfect for your living room and compare different types before making your final decision.
Even if you can't find samples, most home improvement stores let you buy individual pieces of molding that you can try out before measuring the room.
DIY Tips
Whether you choose bathroom or kitchen cabinet crown molding, you can rely on some tips that make installing the pieces much easier.
- You need to start with the right tools. Finishing screws or nails attach the molding to the wall and ceiling without damaging them.
- You also need the right tools to cut the molding to the angles that you need. If you don't feel comfortable doing this yourself, get a home improvement store to cut the angles for you to match the measurements that you made.
- You'll also find decorative accent pieces and blocks that you can place in the corners to hide the spots where the edges meet.
Before adding crown molding to your home, make sure that you know everything about these accents, including the installation costs and options.
Ready to improve your home’s look and value by installing crown molding? Contact a local pro and request a free quote!
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