Adding molding to your living room, dining room, or even bedroom instantly gives it a formal appearance. Molding is installed along the top of the wall where it meets the ceiling to cap off and frame the room. There are several types of molding that can be utilized to cover caps in the walls or simply add a decorative element to a room. Enhancing the ceilings, casings, or other prominent features like chandeliers is an easy way to add a classic touch to your home.

Molding Uses

There are several different trim molding styles for different areas of the house. This edge can help to draw your eye up toward the celling and lift the space making it appear higher and larger. Easing the transition from wall to ceiling can soften the otherwise harsh or unfinished corners. Moldings can sharpen the look of walls and windows, and adding a fresh coat of white or even colored paint can make those entryways pop.

Molding Types

Functional: These types of moldings serve a more practical purpose instead of a stylish feature. Used to cover gaps in frames or uneven paint jobs, wall to ceiling crown moldings or casings are the best tools for the job.

Design Enhancing: To add dimension and style to space's walls, you can install molding purely for dramatic effect. Chair railing can be arranged in a geometric shape or installed mid-wall to divide paint color and wallpaper patterns. The square shape and clean lines found in cross head molding can also draw the eye up and around the room with its details.

Decorative: Ornate trim styles like appliques and scrolls add a subtle elegant touch to your spaces such as dining room ceilings or bedroom corners. Fine details can be found in the molding for a simple room enhancement.

Molding Materials

Specific types of molding warrant different materials especially for each room of the house. A stylish trim can give any room an understated and finished look depending on its style, material, or color.
Urethane: These casted molds are made from a high-density, lightweight material. They provide the expensive look of wood, but won't warp or split. Urethane molding is conveniently pre-primed for an easy installation.

Wood: This versatile molding can be clear-coated, stained, or painted. Traditional hardwood molding offers a warm, rustic look with its distinctive grain pattern. It can also be clear-coated and varnished for extra protection and longevity.

Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF): MDF is a high-grade material that typically comes pre-primed to provide an even paint finish. Easy to handle and install, MDF is a great trim style option for crown molding due to its lightweight.

Now that you know all the different types of molding, you can figure out which look and style fits best with your home.