Interior and Exterior Usage of various Molding Materials
Crown molding adds an element of class and sophistication to any space it graces. It was an architecture staple for older homes for centuries from ancient castles to a plain ole DIY project in a loft downtown,and high-falutin estates.
But can you drag this aristocrat of room trim outdoors, or is it strictly indoor nobility? Let’s consider some wood or plaster crown molding. This stuff is flexible molding, and it might do okay outside. It does need some work before you install it.
What is Crown Molding?
Crown molding is a decorative trim used where a wall meets the ceiling. It’s like a fancy belt for your room. It’s born of the grand ol’ days of architecture and interior design. There’s a style of crown molding for every look, from an ancient Greek temple to a modern condo. Installing wood crown molding is a top DIY project for many folks.
The Role of Crown Molding in Architecture
As one might’ve guessed, crown molding ain’t just there to look pretty. Originally it served to cover up the unsightly meeting place of wall and ceiling where the carpenter’s line slipped a bit. These days it’s more about style, adding character to a room. It sets off walls and ceilings, and even used as a substitute for ceiling molding in some cases.
Exploring the Different Types of Crown Molding
There are all sorts of crown molding for different tastes. Most types can be used inside and outside. Choosing the right one depends on the look you’re going for. Wood brings a classic touch, while polyurethane adds sophistication. All great for either indoor and outdoor applications. Mind you; it ain’t fun to install on curved walls, and you’ll likely need something that’ll play nice with a good dab of construction adhesive.
Plaster Crown Molding
Plaster used to be the go-to cornice for generations, but it’s not as common today. It can be a bit of nuisance to work with, especially for beginners. Then again, that’s half the fun of a DIY project, right?
Solid Wood Crown Molding
Ah, nothing brings warmth to a room like solid wood crown molding. As long as it’s properly finished, wood can withstand most of whatever the weather throws at it. Wood crown molding is typically installed with a gentleman’s trio: wood adhesive, screws, and good ol’ finishing nails.
Polyurethane Crown Molding
Polyurethane stuff is impervious to moisture, so you can laugh in the face of April showers. Well, your house can. It’s a lot like plaster molding, but a touch more modern.
PVC Crown Molding
PVC crown molding sticks to interior and exterior walls, it doesn’t get bothered by the elements, and it even accepts paint without fuss. Using stainless steel pins, cellular PVC crown molding clings to the wall like a squirrel to a tree.
Medium Density Fiberboard Crown Molding
Now, this stuff, also known as MDF, it’s used indoors only. It’s kinda like a cousin to wood, but a little less rambunctious. It’s got some manners, this one.
Governor’s Palace Crown Molding Room Kit
For some folks, going all-out means bringing some colonial grandeur to their abode. That’s where the Governor’s Palace Crown Molding Room Kit comes in. It’s like playing architect, but without the years of design school.
Practical Applications of Crown Molding – Interior Vs. Exterior
Where we use crown molding really boils down to practicality. I mean, you wouldn’t wear your Sunday suit to a demolition derby, right? You gotta pick the right stuff for the situation. Interior applications are all about style, while exterior use needs to stand up against the great outdoors – and that can mean facing down mold and mildew with a steely glare.
Evaluating Exterior Use: Can Crown Molding be Used Outside?
Now, how ’bout using crown molding outside? Can it brave the outdoors? Short answer – yes, it can shine in all its glory under the sun, too. But you’ve got to be pickier with your materials, or your stunning crown molding could turn into a rotted hunk of wood. Pick stuff like PVC or polyurethane, which weather the elements like pros. Mildew, practically non-existent! Warping, not on their watch! Be smart in your selection, and your exteriors could wow passersby with the same classic vibe as your interiors.
The Process of Installing Crown Molding for Outdoor Use and The Tools Required
Installing crown molding outside with the right tools and gumption, will be a breeze. First off, measuring is key; And don’t even think about skimping on good quality nails and glue. Your crown molding’s got to hold on tight ’cause Mother Nature doesn’t play around! Make sure to nail at an angle into your structure’s framing for the best grip.
Once you’ve got your crown molding attached tightly, you’re not quite out of the woodwork yet! Stage two – caulking. It’s a bit of a messy business, but it’s crucial for sealing joints and gaps, and making sure your work looks seamless. Nothing says amateur job like gaps in your molding!
Finally, finishing off with a lick of paint not only beautifies your masterpiece but also gives it that extra strength to withstand the elements.
So, what tools are we talking about here? Well, you’ll need a good old-fashioned measuring tape and level, a sturdy hammer or nail gun, caulk gun, and don’t forget your paints and brushes. That, my friend, is the nitty-gritty of installing crown molding outside. Not rocket science, is it?
Understanding the Versatility of Crown Molding in Interior and Exterior uses
So there you have it, crown molding – style galore, versatile, and certainly worth the elbow grease. Whether working on a living room renovation or jazzing up your front porch, crown molding is like the cherry atop your sundae. Interior, exterior, it fits right in, transforming spaces with its classic charm. Just remember to keep in with the right materials for the job. Play it smart, and your crown molding installation could be the talk of the town!