Is Crown Molding Worth It? Does it add value to your home? This is probably one of the most popular questions asked by homeowners considering adding crown molding to their homes.
The answer, unfortunately, is not as straightforward as a simple yes or no. It really depends on a variety of factors unique to each individual situation.
Whether you are just debating the idea of adding crown molding or have already decided to take the plunge, here are a few things to keep in mind that will help you determine if the crown molding is worth it for your home.
What is Crown Molding?
Crown molding is a trim used to decorate the junction where the ceiling and walls meet. It is usually made from wood, plastic, plaster, or polyurethane and comes in various styles, sizes, and shapes.
While it is most commonly used for purely aesthetic purposes, crown molding can also help cover up any imperfections in the transition between the ceiling and wall and help protect the wall from damage caused by furniture or other objects that might bump into it.
However, it is important to hire a professional installer to ensure that the job is done right. Otherwise, the molding may start to peel or crack over time.
The Crown Molding Cost
Crown molding is a popular way to add a touch of elegance to a room, but it can also be quite expensive. The cost of crown molding depends on several factors, including the type of material used, the size and shape of the room, and the level of detail required.
For example, simple crown molding made from MDF (medium-density fiberboard) can cost as little as $3 per linear foot, while more complex designs made from hardwood can cost $20 or more per linear foot.
In addition, the cost of installation can vary widely, depending on the project’s complexity. Simple tasks like cutting and nailing molding in place can be done by a handyman or DIYer for around $200, while more complicated projects that require specialized tools and skills can cost several thousand dollars.
All of these factors will be greatly affected by the thickness and design of the installed molding. You can have rare exotic woods shipped in, reuse refurbished materials, get it at deep discounts on the web, or even just utilize wood from trees on your land or salvaged materials like old pallets.
As a result, it’s important to get several estimates before deciding on a particular type of crown molding. This will help you get a better idea of the overall cost and ensure that you get the best value for your money.
Is Crown Molding Worth It: The Benefits
The installation of crown molding can have several benefits for your home. Therefore, weighing these benefits against the cost is important to determine if the crown molding is worth it for your particular situation.
👑Crown Molding Adds Visual Appeal
One of the primary reasons people choose to add crown molding is that it can add elegance and sophistication to any room. Crown molding can help give a room a more polished and finished look and can be used to highlight certain features or architectural details.
For example, if you have a high ceiling, adding crown molding can help to make the room appear more balanced and proportionate. In addition, crown molding can create the illusion of more space in a small room, or you can use it to make a large room feel cozier.
👑Increase the Value of Your Home
Another benefit of crown molding is that it can increase your home’s value. This is because the crown molding is considered a valuable home improvement, and it can make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
While this can increase the value, it only does so under certain conditions, such as when the installation is completed and painted correctly. When executed properly, crown molding can transform the look of a room. Your home’s resale price will increase as a result, and you’ll be able to use that money toward other investments.
On the other hand, you need to check that everything is done properly. A decrease in the home’s value and new problems are possible if the expansion is not properly planned and executed. As a result, many homebuyers are looking for turnkey properties that don’t need major repairs. Poorly installed crown molding is unsightly and should be fixed or removed.
Because of the increased likelihood of needing to make costly repairs before moving in, some potential buyers may decide to seek elsewhere or make a significantly lesser offer. To put it another way, installing crown molding is a bit of a gamble that could result in wasted money if the job is not carried out properly.
👑Improve the Functionality of a Room
In addition to increasing the visual appeal and value of your home, crown molding can also improve the functionality of a room. This is because crown molding can create additional storage space in a room.
For example, you can install shelves above the molding to hold decorations or other items or hooks below the molding to hang jackets, coats, or other clothing items.
You can even use crown molding to hide cords and wires that would otherwise be visible. This can give your room a neater and more organized appearance.
👑Requires Low Maintenance
Another benefit of crown molding is that it requires low maintenance. Once installed, you won’t need to do much to keep the molding looking good.
You may need to dust or wipe down the molding from time to time, but there is no need to sand, paint, or otherwise refinish the molding regularly. This can save you time and money in the long run, as you won’t need to invest in ongoing maintenance tasks.
👑Easy to Install
Contrary to popular belief, crown molding is quite easy to install. You don’t need to be a skilled carpenter or handyman to do it.
There are a variety of kits available that include everything you need to install crown molding, and there are many online tutorials that can walk you through the process step-by-step.
Installing crown molding is a relatively quick and easy project that most people can do in a weekend. However, it is important to take your time and measure the molding correctly before cutting it to size.
If you make a mistake, it can be difficult to fix, and the end result will not look as good as it could.
The different crown molding material
Crown molding is produced using a wide range of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
📍Wood Crown Molding
Wood is the most popular type of crown molding, as it is relatively inexpensive and easy to work with. However, it is important to note that wood molding is susceptible to water, humidity, and insect damage.
📍MDF crown molding
Crown molding made of MDF (a wood-based composite material that combines wood fibers with synthetic resin) is another low-cost option for homeowners and contractors looking to add beauty to their homes.
MDF is one of the most versatile forms of crown molding today since it does not split when cut, is simple to cut with a miter saw blade, is resilient to warping, and can be sprayed with any top-quality oil or latex paint.
📍Softwood Crown Molding
Softwood crown molding is the most popular type of wood molding. It is made from pine, spruce, or fir and is typically less expensive than hardwood crown molding.
However, it is also not as durable as hardwood and is more susceptible to water damage, humidity, and insects.
📍Aluminum, Copper And Steel Crown Molding
Aluminum, copper, and steel crown molding are more expensive than wood or plastic, but they offer many advantages. These materials are not susceptible to water damage, humidity, or insects. They are also much easier to clean than wood or plastic.
In addition, aluminum, copper, and steel crown molding can make your home more modern.
📍Plastic Crown Molding
Plastic crown molding is a great alternative that is more affordable and easy to install. It is also much lighter weight than wood molding, so it is less likely to cause damage to your walls if it falls. In addition, plastic crown molding comes in various colors and styles, so you can find the perfect look for your home.
📍Polyurethane Crown Molding
Polyurethane crown molding is an attractive and affordable way to add a touch of luxury to your home. Unlike real wood moldings, polyurethane crown moldings are made from a durable synthetic material that is easy to clean and maintain.
Polyurethane crown moldings are also lightweight and easy to install, making them a popular choice for do-it-yourselfers. In addition, polyurethane crown moldings come in a variety of styles and colors, so you can easily find a look that suits your taste.
Whether you’re looking for an elegant accent for your living room or a rustic touch for your kitchen, polyurethane crown molding is a great way to improve the look of your home.
📍Foam crown molding
Foam crown molding is a decorative molding composed of styrofoam, often used in construction. It’s lightweight and easy to set up on any smooth surface.
Foam crown molding is lightweight, easy to install, and can be shaped to fit any space. It is normally used around the perimeter of a room, on top of cabinets or shelves, and can also be used on fireplace mantels.
Crown molding installation
Installing crown molding can be challenging, particularly if you don’t have experience with woodworking or carpentry. The good news is that a few tips can help you get the job done right.
Step 1: Experiment with various molding profiles
There are a variety of molding profiles available, so it’s important to take some time to experiment with different options. This will help you find the perfect profile for your home.
Step 2: Sketch and Measure the Area
Once you’ve selected a profile, it’s time to sketch and measure the area where you’ll install the crown molding. This will ensure that you have enough material to complete the job.
Step 3: Cut the Molding
Once you’ve measured the area, you can begin cutting the molding. Using a sharp saw blade is important to avoid chipping or breaking the molding.
Step 4: Install the Molding
Once the molding is cut, you can begin installing it. Start by attaching the molding to the wall with nails or screws. Then, use caulk to fill in any gaps between the molding and the wall.
Step 5: Use adhesive
If you’re having trouble getting the molding to stay in place, you can try using an adhesive. Apply a generous amount of adhesive to the back of the molding, and then press it into place.
Step 6: Paint or Stain the Molding
After the molding is installed, you can add a coat of paint or stain to give it a finished look.
Which rooms need crown molding?
Adding crown moulding to your home can make any space look more refined and draw attention to the room’s original design. However, it’s not always obvious where crown molding should go. This is totally up to you and your sense of fashion, your finances, and your own preferences.
You might wonder which rooms in your house need crown molding and which don’t if you’re considering adding them. Here are some rooms that are often adorned with crown molding:
✅Dining Room
In most houses, the dining room serves as the central gathering spot for mealtimes, social gatherings, and special occasions. You can hear the din of forks, wine glasses, and chatter here. Add crown molding to your dining room if you want to make a good impression on your visitors at your next dinner party.
Typically, the dining room’s table and chandelier are the room’s focal points. Therefore crown molding should be used to emphasize these features. When used as an accent, mmolding can give a room a more refined look without being overpowering. There will be an air of mystery and luxury in the space.
✅Kitchen Cabinets
Crown molding in the kitchen can brighten up the space and make it look more refined. It’s a great way to add character to your kitchen cabinets. Crown molding is best used in the kitchen to highlight the border of the ceiling and frame the higher sections of your cabinets. Plus, it can help conceal gaps between the cabinet and the ceiling.
✅living room
The living room is one of the most popular places to relax in any home. It’s usually where people gather to watch television, play games, or entertain guests. Crown molding can dress up a living room and make it feel more luxurious. It can also be used to draw attention to certain features in the room, such as a fireplace or a piece of artwork.
If you have a large living room, you may want to consider adding crown molding to make it feel more intimate. Smaller living rooms can benefit from crown molding as well. It can make the space appear larger and brighter.
✅Bedroom
A bedroom is a place for rest and relaxation. It’s a personal space where you can retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Crown molding can give your bedroom a touch of elegance and make it feel more welcoming.
Adding crown molding to your bedroom is a great way to add value to your home. It can also make the space feel cozier and inviting.
✅Home Office
If you work from home, you know that having a comfortable and functional home office is crucial. Crown molding can add a touch of professionalism to your home office and make it feel more like a traditional office space.
Crown molding can also be used to draw attention to certain features in the room, such as a built-in bookshelf or a bay window.
✅Bathroom
Bathrooms are common for molding installation because they are usually high-traffic areas. Adding crown molding to your bathroom can give it a touch of luxury and make it feel more spa-like.
A cove molding will be perfect for use in the bathroom because it is resistant to moisture. You can also use this type of molding to highlight certain features in the room, such as a clawfoot tub or a pedestal sink.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I buy crown molding?
A: You can purchase crown molding at home depot, art deco, or any other hardware store.
Q: Can I paint colors on the crown molding?
A: Yes. You can paint any color you want on the crown molding.
Q: What are some other ways to use crown molding?
A: Crown molding can also be used as picture frame molding, baseboard molding, or chair rail molding.
Q: What if I have a low ceiling? Can I still use crown molding?
A: Yes, you can. You can use a smaller piece of crown molding or a different type of molding altogether.
Q: What is ornate crown molding?
A: Ornate crown molding is a type of molding that is highly decorated. It usually has intricate designs and is made from high-quality materials.
Final Words
Is crown molding worth it? Crown molding can definitely add value to your home. It can make any room feel more luxurious and inviting. It’s also a great way to highlight certain features in a room. If you’re looking for a way to add a touch of elegance to your home, crown molding is worth considering. However, before you install crown molding, consult a professional to ensure that you install it correctly. With proper installation, crown molding can last many years and add beauty and value to your home.
