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What Is Crown Molding?
Crown molding is a type of decorative molding that separates the wall from the ceiling
Photo: Klaus Vedfelt / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
Photo: Klaus Vedfelt / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
Highlights
Crown molding was originally designed to hide gaps between walls and ceilings.
It now serves primarily as a decorative element.
Crown molding costs an average of $4 to $8 per linear foot, but ranges from $2,000 to $4,000 for 500 linear feet.
Popular crown molding materials include wood, plaster, PVC, polyurethane, and MDF.
Crown molding can increase home value and be used for unique lighting effects by installing it slightly below the ceiling edge
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If you want to add some decorative flair to your living room, crown molding might give you that classic style you’re looking for. Crown molding covers the corner where the wall and ceiling meet and is an easy way to elevate your space. Plus, there are a ton of different materials and styles of crown molding, and each one gives your room a totally different feel. Installing crown molding could even increase the value of your home.
Return on Investment
Installing crown molding in your home can offer a healthy ROI of between 50% and 80% on average. Thanks to its aesthetic value, your investment return on a premium finish like this will be at the top of that range in high-end or move-in-ready markets.
What Is Crown Molding Used For?
Crown molding was originally used to hide any small gaps between a home’s wall and ceiling. While crown molding originally had a utilitarian purpose, it came to serve as a decorative function.
During the Victorian era, intricately carved molding was used to make the parlor and bedrooms even more lavish. Though most modern crown molding is more low-key, it’s still the perfect opportunity to add a little character to your home.
What Are the Benefits of Crown Molding?
From the practical to the purely aesthetic, there are many reasons for adding crown molding to a room.
Crown Molding Covers Up Irregularities
The original purpose of crown molding was to cover up any irregularities between the wall and ceiling, and it still serves this purpose even in modern homes. Crown molding can also smooth out any discrepancies between the ceiling and other elements, including cabinets or built-in bookshelves, and can even be used to hide unsightly wires from view.
Crown Molding Adds Aesthetic Appeal
While crown molding started out with a very practical purpose, it’s also used to add style and character to a room. As a decorative element, crown molding can range from simple and straightforward to ornate and detailed—it’s all up to you and the vision for your space.
Crown Molding Increases Home Value
Trim improvements, including crown molding, can also increase a home’s resale value. Crown molding complements high ceilings, making homes more aesthetically appealing to help them sell faster.
Crown Molding Can Be Used for Lighting
It’s becoming increasingly popular to install crown molding slightly below the ceiling edge, and install soft lighting behind it. This creates a unique light source throughout the room.
How Much Does Crown Molding Cost?
Crown molding costs an average of $4 to $8 per linear foot. For an average project of 500 linear feet, the cost ranges from $2,000 to $4,000.
Different crown molding materials may come with different price points. For instance, plaster crown molding is typically more expensive than wood because it demands a higher level of detail during the installation process.
| Crown Molding Material | Cost to Install (Per Linear Foot) |
|---|---|
| Solid wood | $3–$30 |
| Polyurethane | $2–$10 |
| Plaster | $6–$20 |
| MDF | $1–$7 |
| PVC | $1–$4 |
| Foam | $1–$4 |
| Metal | $10–$30 |
Photo: © SafakOguz / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
What Are the Different Types of Crown Molding?
There are a few different types of crown molding materials, including wood, plaster, and PVC.
Wood
Wood is a traditional choice for crown molding. It can be simple and straightforward, or may feature decorative patterns or carvings.
Plaster
Plaster is another common crown molding material. But because plaster can be difficult to handle, it’s a good idea to hire a professional for installation.
PVC
PVC is a lightweight and affordable material choice for crown molding. It’s an especially popular choice in bathrooms, where the humid conditions may negatively affect other types of molding.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane is a simple and durable material that’s often used for crown molding. This type of crown molding is even sturdier than wood and resistant to mold and rot.
MDF
MDF, which stands for medium-density fiberboard, is an affordable crown molding option designed to look like wood—but at a fraction of the cost. In most cases, you’ll have to stain or paint MDF crown molding.
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