Installing moulding is a great way to add a look of luxury to any room remodel. But with multiple materials available to choose from, it can be tough to know what type is right for your project. Every material has advantages and disadvantages to consider before you buy. Jaeger Lumber helps you out with a discussion of MDF moulding, PVC trim moulding, and hardwood moulding to help you select the right material to elevate your space.
Key Takeaways
- MDF moulding is cost-effective and easy to work with, but vulnerable to moisture.
- PVC moulding is completely insect- and waterproof, making it great for applications in moist areas. However, it lacks the natural aesthetics of wood.
- Wood moulding delivers a timeless and beautiful look that’s ideal for high-visibility areas, but it’s expensive and can be difficult to install.
- Consider your finish, budget, installation, and environment requirements to choose the right type of moulding for your application.
What Is MDF Moulding?
MDF is short for medium-density fiberboard. It is an engineered wood product that is made by breaking down hardwood and softwood into fine fibers. These fibers are combined with wax and resin, then pressed into shape under high heat. MDF mouldings have a wood-like feel, but with several advantages over natural wood and PVC:
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to cut and install
- Flexible enough to bend around curved walls
- Pre-primed and ready to paint
- Resistant to expansion and warping
The smooth, grain-free appearance of MDF is ideal for painting. If you want a natural woodgrain look, however, then MDF won’t deliver the aesthetics you are hoping for. It’s also vulnerable to moisture and is not recommended for bathrooms and rooms that are prone to dampness.
What Is PVC Moulding?
PVC trim and mouldings are made from polyvinyl chloride, a type of plastic polymer. The material is completely synthetic, containing no natural materials at all. This offers numerous benefits:
- Completely waterproof
- Resistant to rotting, splitting, and warping
- Lightweight and easy to work with
- Can be heat-curved
- Paint or sealant is not required
- Paint finishes last longer
The durability against moisture, rot, and insects makes PVC moulding a great choice for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and outdoor spaces. However, it comes at a higher cost, so it isn’t a budget-friendly choice for spaces that don’t need the protection. PVC is also noticeably synthetic. Even though PVC moulding is available with a woodgrain texture, it can’t perfectly imitate natural wood.
What Is Hardwood Moulding?
Hardwood moulding is made entirely from natural hardwood and treated to improve its durability. Wood is one of the oldest and most popular building materials, and for good reason. It offers great aesthetics and functionality, including:
- Beautiful appearance
- Stronger than MDF or PVC
- Resists denting from impact
- Doesn’t warp in sunlight
- Can be painted or stained
The timeless elegance of hardwood moulding makes it a great choice for high-visibility applications, especially in traditional homes and high-visibility spaces where you value a natural woodgrain look. The material’s vulnerability to splitting can make it difficult to work with, however, and it can’t bend around curves as easily as MDF or PVC. It’s also the most expensive material on this list. You’ll only want to get real hardwood for spaces where its benefits matter most.
Talk to a Materials Expert Before Ordering
Building materials all have their strengths and weaknesses, making them best suited to different applications. If you aren’t familiar with common moulding materials, then talk to a building materials expert before ordering. The knowledgeable associates at Jaeger Lumber can help you understand the needs of your project and determine the right material.
Jaeger Lumber is a building material supplier with locations across the state of New Jersey. We serve homeowners, DIYers, and contractors with a wide variety of high-quality materials to help you finish a successful project. Contact us today to learn more or start shopping for MDF moulding, PVC trim moulding, or hardwood moulding.
FAQs about Moulding Materials
Which moulding material is easiest to paint?
MDF moulding tends to be easier to paint, since it usually comes pre-primed. Both PVC and hardwood moulding usually need to be primed before they can be painted. That said, PVC tends to retain paint longer because it does not contain moisture to cause peeling.
Can PVC moulding be used indoors?
Yes, PVC moulding can be used indoors. Consider using PVC moulding for bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements, workshops, and other spaces that are prone to moisture problems.
Is hardwood moulding worth the extra cost?
Hardwood moulding is worth the extra cost for high-visibility areas where the premium look is important. If the application isn’t very visible or if the area is susceptible to moisture or pests, then you should consider other materials that will hold up better.