Crown molding has been a popular design element for centuries and is among the most effective ways to elevate an interior space. The simple addition of a bit of molding can completely transform a room’s look and feel.
Jaeger Lumber provides building supply materials for many home renovation projects throughout New Jersey. Here, we provide a brief introduction to ceiling crown molding, its benefits, and how you can use it to elevate your home.
Why Use Crown Molding?
First, what is crown molding? This term refers to a strip of decorative material used to accentuate the edge between your wall and ceiling. Though it might seem like a minor addition, it adds polish that can provide flair to a home. Here are just a few ways crown molding can improve your space:
- Enhance visual appeal: Crown molding adds extra detail and definition to create an elegant atmosphere within your home.
- Expand your space: Crown molding draws the eye upward, helping a room appear more open and spacious.
- Hide imperfections: If a room has paint issues, warped joints, or other irregularities, crown molding can disguise them for a seamless look.
- Conceal wires: Hollow crown molding provides a discrete place to stow cabling and wires without creating holes in your wall.
- Increase property value: The added beauty brings extra value to your home by making it more appealing to potential buyers.
Designing With Crown Molding
When it comes to designing interior spaces, molding is a versatile tool. The size, style, finish, and even placement of your crown molding installation all help to transform and elevate a space. It’s essential to consider every aspect when planning a project to achieve your desired look and feel.
Material
Most crown molding is made of wood or polyurethane, but there are a variety of options besides hardwood moldings. Plaster is delicate and often custom-molded. Polystyrene, also called Styrofoam, is incredibly lightweight for easy installation. Rubber or flex molding is designed to bend around pillars and curved walls.
Width
Crown molding comes in all sizes, from super-narrow to extra-wide. Consider the size of your space when planning your design. Wide bands can add shape and definition to vaulted ceilings, while thinner trim suits a smaller room.
Style
While you may imagine crown molding decorating the walls of elegant antique architecture, it’s just as well-suited to modern homes. Crown molding offers a wide variety of designs from simple to elaborate. It can accentuate a range of house styles including classic colonial, French chateau, farmhouse, and modern. You can accentuate the angles with crown molding corners, or simply connect ends for an unbroken line.
Finish
Once you have chosen your trim size and style, it’s time to pick a finish. There’s no limit to color or wood finish. You can match your walls for subtle detailing or blend with the ceiling to visually expand your space. Choose a contrasting hue for extra depth and dimension. You can even hand-paint molding to highlight the designs.
Location
Feel free to get creative with where you place your molding. It isn’t limited to the tops of walls. Many designers use it to connect shelving and cabinets with the ceiling, creating extra interest and visual height. Molding over a mantel, window, or entryway can make it appear larger and transform it into a focal point for your room.
Plan Your Crown Molding Project
With so many options and crown molding ideas, it helps to plan. Jaeger Lumber is a full-service provider of building products to contractors and DIY renovators throughout New Jersey. Our team is highly knowledgeable and can help you realize your home remodeling vision.
Contact us at Jaeger Lumber to find a location near you, to learn more about our services, or to receive advice on how to cut and install crown molding. Get a quote today to estimate the cost of your next project.