
PVC Crown Molding FAQs
What materials are your mouldings available in?
Wood: Classic and versatile, wood mouldings can be stained or painted to match your décor. They offer a traditional look and can be crafted from various wood species.
PVC: PVC mouldings are durable and moisture-resistant, making them suitable for areas prone to humidity. They are also easy to install and maintain.
MDF: MDF mouldings are cost-effective and provide a smooth, paintable surface. They are ideal for interior use and offer a clean, modern look.
Urethane: Lightweight and easy to install, urethane mouldings mimic the look of wood without the risk of warping or cracking. They are perfect for intricate designs and high-humidity areas.
What are the most popular crown moulding styles?
Traditional Crown Moulding
Traditional crown moulding features elegant curves and detailed profiles. It often has a layered look, with multiple ridges and smooth, sweeping curves that give it a classic appearance. This style is ideal for homes with a timeless, formal aesthetic, such as Colonial or Victorian-inspired interiors. Traditional crown moulding adds a sense of sophistication and grandeur to any room, making it a favorite for formal living rooms, dining rooms, and entryways.
Modern Crown Moulding
For those seeking a sleeker, more minimalist look, modern crown moulding is a great choice. This style typically features clean, straight lines with little to no ornamentation. The simplicity of modern crown moulding makes it perfect for contemporary or transitional homes, as it enhances the architectural lines of a space without overwhelming the design. It’s often used in homes with modern or industrial decor where subtle elegance is desired without elaborate detailing.
Dentil Crown Moulding
Dentil moulding is characterized by small, evenly spaced rectangular blocks (or "teeth") along the moulding strip, which give it a distinctive, patterned look. This style originated from classical architecture and is commonly used in traditional or classical homes. Dentil crown moulding can add a sense of rhythm and structure to a room, making it popular in formal settings, especially in homes with high ceilings or large rooms that can handle bold, decorative features.
Egg & Dart Crown Moulding
The Egg & Dart pattern is a classic design consisting of alternating egg-shaped ovals and dart-like motifs. This ornate style dates back to ancient Greek and Roman architecture and is often used in luxurious or historically inspired homes. Egg & Dart crown moulding adds a level of intricate detail and texture to the space, enhancing the visual interest of a room’s perimeter. It's a great option for those who appreciate antique and opulent design elements.
Cove Crown Moulding
Cove moulding is simpler than other styles and features a concave profile that softly curves into the wall and ceiling. This moulding style is typically understated and elegant, making it suitable for a wide variety of home designs. Cove crown moulding works well in both traditional and modern homes, as it provides a seamless transition between the wall and ceiling without drawing too much attention to itself. It’s often used in kitchens, bathrooms, or any room where a softer, less formal touch is needed.
How do I choose the right moulding for my home?
When selecting crown moulding, consider both the style and dimensions of your room. For optimal visual impact:
For 8' ceilings: Choose mouldings with a face width of 2-1/2 to 6 inches.
For 9' ceilings: Opt for mouldings with a face width of 3 to 7-1/2 inches.
For 10' and higher ceilings: Select mouldings with a face width of 4-1/2 to 23 inches.
Additionally, think about the material: wood offers a traditional look, MDF provides a smooth finish, and urethane is lightweight and easy to install. Matching the moulding size to your ceiling height will help achieve a balanced and elegant look in your space.
Is your moulding difficult to install?
Installation difficulty can vary depending on the material and the complexity of the profile. However, many of our moulding products are designed for easy installation. Pre-mitered corners are available for certain profiles, which simplifies the installation process and ensures precise cuts.
How do I cut crown moulding corners/How do I install crown moulding?
Cutting moulding corners accurately requires some precision. Follow these detailed steps:
Measure and Mark: Measure the angle of the corner where the moulding will be installed. Most corners are 90 degrees, but check to be sure.
Cutting Inside Corners: For inside corners (where two walls meet), set your miter saw to 45 degrees. Make the cuts so that the two pieces fit snugly together, creating a clean, tight joint. Adjustments may be needed for precise fit.
Cutting Outside Corners: For outside corners (where the moulding wraps around a corner), set your miter saw to 45 degrees in the opposite direction. The pieces should meet at a 90-degree angle, ensuring they cover the corner evenly. Again, dry fit and adjust as needed.
Dry Fit: Dry fit the pieces in place to ensure they align correctly before securing them.
Secure and Finish: Secure the moulding with nails or adhesive, fill any gaps or nail holes with caulk or wood filler, and then sand and paint or stain as needed.
For more intricate profiles or complex installations, consider using a crown moulding installation kit or consulting a professional for best results.
What maintenance is required?
When it comes to maintaining your moulding, the level of upkeep required largely depends on the material you choose. Here's a more detailed breakdown of what you can expect with each material:
Wood:
Wood is a timeless, natural material that adds warmth and elegance to any room, but it does require more care than synthetic options. Over time, wood moulding may show signs of wear, especially in high-traffic areas or rooms with fluctuating humidity levels. To keep it looking its best, you may need to occasionally sand and refinish the wood. Sanding helps to smooth out any surface imperfections, while refinishing restores the wood’s natural beauty and provides protection from moisture, dirt, and scratches. If exposed to direct sunlight, wood moulding may also fade, requiring periodic staining or painting to maintain its original appearance.
MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard):
MDF is a popular choice due to its affordability and smooth, uniform surface, which makes it ideal for painting. One of its biggest advantages is the minimal upkeep it requires. Unlike wood, MDF doesn't expand or contract with humidity, making it a more stable option in different environments. Regular dusting is usually sufficient to keep MDF moulding clean. For deeper cleaning, a mild detergent and a soft cloth are all that’s needed to remove any dirt or grime. However, it's important to avoid exposing MDF to excessive moisture, as it can swell or warp if not properly sealed.
Urethane and PVC:
Urethane and PVC mouldings are known for their durability and resistance to moisture, making them ideal for areas like bathrooms, kitchens, or exterior applications where humidity or direct water exposure is a concern. These materials are virtually maintenance-free. Simply wiping them down with a damp cloth will remove dust and debris. Because they are non-porous, they do not absorb moisture, which means there’s no risk of warping, cracking, or rotting, unlike natural wood. Additionally, they are resistant to pests and will not splinter, making them a long-lasting option that requires very little upkeep beyond occasional cleaning.
Can I paint or stain these mouldings?
Yes, our moulding can be painted or stained to match your interior. Wood moulding can be stained or painted to match your decor, while MDF and urethane moulding are typically painted. Be sure to use the appropriate primer and paint for the material to achieve the best finish.