Just as a necktie establishes the style of a man’s suit, decorative trim molding makes a definitive statement about a home. Simply put, the trim in a room speaks volumes. Very often decorative molding is constructed from medium-density fiberboard (MDF). Architects and builders are finding this material has the inherent ability to easily outperform lumber in many very advantageous ways.
MDF, as its name implies, is made from wood and agricultural fibers. This means it has a much denser makeup and smoother surface.
- Another advantage MDF has over lumber is that it offers larger maximum piece dimensions. This means that lengths of up to 16 feet are available with full thickness. There are no knots or splits to deal with and no warping.
- It is lighter to work with (20 percent lighter) and much easier to caulk.
- In addition to trim, MDF is popular for use in cabinets and often takes center stage in home theaters. High-end speaker cabinets, for example, are 100 percent MDF construction because it’s dense, rigid and acoustically inert. A properly designed MDF speaker cabinet can focus the maximum “acoustic energy” at the listener, while keeping vibration transmission to a minimum.
- According to the Composite Panel Association, while MDF molding is widely available pre-primed, it can easily be stained or laminated with printed foils and veneers. Also, it installs easily, just like finger-jointed lumber, with the same tools.
- Besides its beauty, of particular interest to homeowners is that molding made of medium-density fiberboard costs about one-third the price of traditional solid or finger-jointed wood.
Real wood trim; while not as cost efficient of a product, there is a lot to be said for real wood and it is a necessity if want a stained, rather than painted look. It is also is much more solid so if the area you’re trimming out needs the extra strength, real wood is the way to go.
How might you USE molding to class up the place? Here are a few examples:
Decorative trim molding is something that everyone looks for and wants in their home. And because it’s so desirable, you just can’t lose by adding decorative trim molding. Whether you plan to sell your home today, tomorrow or in 10 years, the beauty of decorative trim molding is an investment that pays for itself over and over again. Why not add it to your home, and enjoy it today! Contact your interior designer and get help selecting the best style of trim for your home!
