By Amanda Hurd

Add a New Look to Your Home with an Old Standard

If windows are the eyes of the room, then moulding (also spelled molding) is the makeup. Installing moulding in an ordinary room instantly transforms it from modest to magnificent.

“Crown, cove, cornice, panel, frieze, chair rail… there is no limit to the possible options,” says Anna of Castle Remodeling in Bethlehem, “Combining different pieces gives homeowners the opportunity to really customize their room.” Traditional moulding is made of wood, but moulding also comes in a range of synthetic alternatives. Wood moulding can be stained or painted to match any particular taste. Within the broad category of wood moulding, there are different types of wood species, hard or soft wood, and a range of different appearances and costs. When choosing what kind of moulding to purchase, consider whether you want to stain or paint your moulding. Wood, MDF (medium density fiberboard), and plastic can be painted. Newly constructed homes often come with basic moulding around windows and baseboards. The best way to make your new home distinctive is to add some custom trim. Even ol der homes with existing trim can benefit from a moulding refurbishment.

Inspired by European castles, the pros at Castle Remodeling strive to bring sophistication into homes in the Lehigh Valley. They offer free in-home consultations to ensure a specialized look that’s simultaneously unique and personal. Planning is essential for a successful moulding project. “In our line of work, the details are everything,” says Anna. Designing new moulding for your home makes an excellent spring renovation project. One of the latest trends is to paint your moulding a dark, saturated color rather than to choose a traditional white or wood stain.

Moulding can be used in some unlikely places, too. “Mouldings aren’t only for stately libraries, grand foyers, and dining rooms. The right moulding can create ambiance in any room, even a kitchen or bathroom,” says Anna. Moulding creates architectural interest and transforms a boring box of a room into a stylish living space. Additionally, adding moulding increases the value of your home by making it distinctive.

Sometimes moulding can even be functional. It can solve construction problems such as covering unsightly cracks or disguising joists between the wall and ceiling. Picture mouldings can be used to display artwork. There is no “typical” moulding project since each individual home, and homeowner, is different.

If you are brave enough to attempt moulding installation yourself, we suggest that you do your homework. Research all the types of materials and styles available and choose one that’s appropriate for the size and style of your home. And if all else fails, consult a professional.

“Your home is your castle,” Anna reminds homeowners, “everyone should live like a king.”