Benefits of Double-Pane Windows
From cost to energy efficiency to ease of installation, here’s what you need to know about double-pane windows.
At House Method, we’re committed to saving homeowners time and money through in-depth reviews on home service providers (like the best home warranty companies), product reviews, and maintenance tips. With that in mind, we created this guide on how to install crown molding. Crown (or ceiling) molding adds a sense of solidity to your home and can increase its resale value. The beauty of crown molding is that it’s relatively easy to install—a simple DIY project you can complete over a weekend.
Here are the most common types of crown molding, along with their pros and cons.
$ = least expensive
$$$$ = most expensive
This original crown molding material has been used for hundreds of years, and for good reason. Natural finished wood adds real warmth and sumptuousness to a room, but it’s quite expensive and, if you live in a humid region, it may contract and expand with the temperature. Cutting wood also requires a bit more skill than other materials, so it’s best installed by someone who has already tried their hand at carpentry.
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Wood crown molding
Medium density fiberboard (MDF) is an affordable alternative to wood. You can buy it veneered or stained, and if you’re not keen on the natural wood finish, just paint it yourself. If your existing wall trim is painted, consider going with MDF as it’ll be much easier to paint. Softer than wood, MDF is more prone to denting, so be sure to handle with care.
The benefit of using plaster molding is that it can be cast into virtually any design you can think of, from rich floral patterns to Baroque or Rococo motifs. The downside is that it can be pricey, as molds are made to order. Plaster is also quite heavy, so installation will require a pro or at least two amateurs.
Like MDF, this is another low-cost option and can last for many years with the added bonus of being bug-proof. Say goodbye to termites, woodworm, or pesky beetles. Polyurethane is a good dupe for plaster—you can get similar casts but at a fraction of the cost. However, like MDF, it does dent easily, so be mindful when you’re putting up polyurethane molding.
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Left Plaster crown molding
Right Polyurethane crown molding
Made from plastic (polyvinyl chloride), PVC is an excellent choice for rooms exposed to humidity, like bathrooms and kitchens. PVC does have its limitations, though—it only comes in simple motifs and painting it is an absolute must. But at an average of $1–$3 per foot, who minds doing a little painting?
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PVC crown molding
Before hitting the store, you’ll want to take accurate measurements of the rooms you’re going to treat. Draw a quick sketch and jot down the length of each wall. When you go into your local home and garden retailer, ask for single, long pieces of molding tailored and cut to each wall length. Otherwise, get the longest pieces you’re able to find.
Begin with unpainted molding. All painting, if necessary, should be done after the molding is installed.
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Benefits of Double-Pane Windows
From cost to energy efficiency to ease of installation, here’s what you need to know about double-pane windows.
The Cost of Installing
Hardwood Flooring
From materials to labor, how much should your hardwood floor cost? We discuss the cost of wood, DIY options, and whether to hire a professional.
Dishwasher Not Cleaning Properly? Here Are 9 Quick Fixes
Dishwasher not cleaning properly? Before calling a service technician to assess the problem, follow this troubleshooting guide to check and clean different parts of your dishwasher.
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