When it comes to remodeling your home, fine details like trim and molding matter. Whether you’re renovating a single room or your entire home, choosing the right trim can elevate the design of your living space and protect your walls and floor. Let’s explore some of the most popular trim and molding options to see how they measure up.
At Lamont Bros. Design & Construction, our remodeling carpenters work with trim and molding on nearly every project we do. As experienced remodelers in the Portland, Oregon area, we help homeowners select the best trim options that balance budget with beauty. We’ve seen firsthand how the right choice of trim materials can transform a space.
In this article, we’ll walk you through different trim and molding materials, giving comparisons of budget-level options to premium selections. After reading, you’ll understand the different trim options and which one best fits your needs and budget. We’ll discuss:
Entry-Level Trim: Affordability & Simplicity
Entry-level trim options are often chosen for their affordability, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners. These trims are typically made from materials that are less durable but still functional and attractive.
MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
Composition and Characteristics: MDF is a composite material made from wood fibers, glues, and resins. It’s smooth, easy to paint, and commonly used for trim due to its cost-effectiveness and versatility.
Pros of MDF Trim:
- Cost-effective: MDF is cheaper than solid wood, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Easy to install: Its lightweight, uniform core simplifies the installation process.
- Smooth for painting: The uniform surface allows for a clean, polished finish.
Cons of MDF Trim:
- Moisture-sensitive: MDF can swell or warp when exposed to moisture, limiting its use in wet areas.
- Durability concerns: It has a shorter lifespan and may need more frequent repairs compared to more durable materials.
- Eased Edges: The boards of MDF have rounded edges, which creates a gap between boards placed perpendicular to one another.
Where Should I Use MDF Trim?
MDF is ideal for low-traffic, where moisture isn’t a concern and budget is a priority. Dry areas like bedrooms or living rooms are suitable for MDF trim.
Mid-Range Trim: A Balance of Cost and Quality
Mid-range trim and molding options provide a step up in both durability and aesthetic appeal, making them an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a balance between cost and quality.
Hemlock Trim (Softwood)
Composition and Characteristics: Hemlock is a softwood commonly used for smaller casings, which are prevalent in homes around the Portland metro area. The most common design is the 2¼” colonial trim, often stained or painted. While functional, these smaller moldings are generally less popular due to their limited visual impact.
Pros of Hemlock Trim:
Affordable and functional: These casings effectively cover gaps and joints in doorways, providing a clean, finished look.
Versatile: Can be stained or painted to match the room’s décor.
Timeless Design Style: Hemlock trim is ubiquitous throughout the Portland metro area and has been used stylishly in home design for decades.
Cons of Hemlock Trim:
- Limited visual impact: Smaller casings struggle to convey importance or grandeur, making them less suitable for high-traffic or feature areas.
- Less durable: As a softwood, hemlock is more susceptible to dents and wear over time.
Where Should I Use Hemlock?
Hemlock trim is best suited for secondary spaces like laundry rooms or garages where functionality is more important than making a design statement.
Premium Trim: High-Quality and Longevity
Premium trim and molding options are designed for homeowners who prioritize durability, quality, and a high-end aesthetic. While premium trim tends to be more expensive, the products tend to last longer and have more customization options.
Most premium trim options are made of poplar wood, either in the form of finger-joined poplar or stave core poplar.
Windsor One Collection (Finger Joined Poplar)
Composition and Characteristics: The Windsor One collection features high-quality moldings known for their sharp, refined profiles and intricate details. Made from finger-jointed poplar, these moldings offer stability while maintaining a polished, elegant appearance.
Pros of Windsor One Trim:
- High-quality finish: Crisp edges and detailed profiles add depth and elegance to any room.
- Stability: The finger-jointed construction reduces movement and warping over time.
- Versatile: Available in various profiles, suitable for different design styles.
Cons of Windsor One Trim:
- Premium pricing: More expensive than mid-range trim and molding options, reflecting its superior quality.
- May require special order: Some profiles may need to be specially ordered, which can increase lead times.
Where Should I Use Windsor One Trim?
Perfect for high-visibility areas like foyers, living rooms, or any space where design impact and durability are important to the homeowner.
Custom Milled Raw Poplar
Composition and Characteristics: Custom-milled raw poplar moldings are crafted by joining multiple small boards to form a stave core, which enhances stability and reduces the likelihood of warping. These moldings often feature deep profiles and intricate details, adding significant visual interest to any space. The raw wood surface can be painted or stained in any desired finish.
Pros of Custom Milled Poplar:
- Extremely durable: Poplar’s hardness and stability make it resistant to damage and suitable for high-traffic areas.
- Holds paint well: The smooth surface ensures an even, high-quality finish that lasts.
Cons of Custom Milled Poplar:
- Higher cost: As with finger-joined poplar, the custom milling and high-quality materials of raw poplar come with a premium price tag.
- Requires professional installation: The complexity of these moldings often necessitates professional installation to achieve the best results.
Where Should I Use Custom Milled Poplar?
Best for prominent areas like entryways, formal dining rooms, or master suites where the trim can make a significant design impact.
Want More Design Inspiration for Your Remodel?
Now that you understand some of the different options for trim and molding, do you have an idea of which one might be best for your home? As you continue your research, consider how your own style and preferences will affect the types of products and materials you select. Download our free Remodel Design Style Questionnaire to explore your own design preferences and see which remodeling features might better suit your needs.
Ready to start designing your next home renovation? If so, click the button below to schedule a free design meeting with a member of our team. We’ll work with you to design and build an amazing space that fits specifically to your style.