Doorways frame the “pictures” in your home, and moulding is the finishing touch that makes them pop. This guide covers everything you need to know about door moulding, from choosing the right style to installing it yourself. Get ready to transform those plain doorways into something special!
Enhancing Your Doorways with Moulding
Door moulding, also known as trim, is the decorative and functional frame around a doorway. It bridges the gap between the doorjamb and the wall, sealing gaps, protecting the wall, and adding visual appeal. Think of it as a picture frame, enhancing your doorway’s overall aesthetic. Transform your doorway further with a sophisticated and sturdy door frame kit.
Types of Door Moulding
Choosing the right door moulding can feel overwhelming, but let’s break down the different types:
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Casing: This is the main frame outlining the door opening. Casing comes in various profiles (shapes), from simple flat designs to more decorative colonial or ranch styles. Choosing the right profile is like selecting a complementary font—it enhances the overall design.
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Backband: To add depth and a touch of elegance, consider backband. It sits behind the casing, creating a layered, more substantial look. This supporting element makes the casing stand out.
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Stop Moulding: This unassuming piece is essential for functionality. Stop moulding prevents the door from swinging too far and seals gaps, playing a small but mighty role.
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Brickmould: Specifically designed for exterior doors, brickmould frames the door against the exterior siding, protecting it from the elements. It’s your door’s first line of defense against wind and rain.
Choosing the Right Material
Selecting the right material involves balancing durability, aesthetics, and cost.
| Material | Pros | Cons | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood (Pine, Oak) | Classic look, stainable/paintable | Can warp or rot, requires maintenance | Moderate to High |
| MDF | Smooth, easy to paint, affordable | Not moisture-resistant | Low |
| PVC | Weather-resistant, durable | Limited style options | Moderate |
| Polyurethane | Lightweight, intricate designs, easy to install | Can be brittle | Moderate |
Sizing and Installation
Door moulding sizes typically range from 2-1/4″ to 3-1/2″ wide. Choose a size proportionate to your door—too narrow might look underwhelming, while too wide can overpower the door itself. Installing door moulding is a DIY-friendly project:
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Measure: Accurate measurements are crucial. “Measure twice, cut once” is the golden rule.
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Cut: Mitering (angled cuts) is the trickiest part. A miter saw is recommended. Practice on scrap pieces first.
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Fasten: Use a nail gun or hammer and nails, along with adhesive for extra hold.
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Caulk: Fill any gaps with caulk for a seamless, professional finish.
Cost and Design
Moulding costs vary depending on the material, ranging from $1 to $10+ per linear foot. Factor in tool costs for DIY projects. For design inspiration, browse online, visit home improvement stores, or consult design magazines. Consider your home’s style—classic, modern, or something else—to choose the perfect moulding.
What is the Molding Around a Door Called?
The frame-like structure surrounding your doorway is called casing. While “door trim” or “door molding” are sometimes used, “casing” is the most precise term. Casing isn’t merely decorative; it serves a practical purpose, sealing gaps and protecting the wall.
Understanding Casing Components
Casing typically consists of:
- Head Casing: The horizontal piece at the top.
- Side Casings: The vertical pieces on the sides.
- Stops: (Optional) Thin strips inside the casing, preventing the door from swinging inward too far.
Casing vs. Trim
“Trim” is a broad term for all decorative molding, while “casing” specifically refers to the molding around doors and windows. All casing is trim, but not all trim is casing.
Choosing the Right Casing
Selecting casing is an important design decision. Consider your home’s style—a modern home might suit sleek casing, while a Victorian home might require something more ornate. Size and profile also matter. Width affects the perceived doorway size, while the profile (shape of the edges) adds a subtle design element. Research suggests certain profiles evoke specific moods, like rounded profiles creating a cozy feel. Material choice (wood, MDF, PVC, polyurethane) impacts maintenance, durability, and cost. Wood offers classic elegance but requires upkeep, while MDF is affordable but susceptible to moisture. PVC is durable for exterior use, and polyurethane offers intricate designs with moisture resistance. The field of architectural design is constantly evolving, so stay updated on new materials and styles.
What is Molding vs Trim?
Let’s clarify the difference between trim and molding. Trim is the general term for covering edges, transitions, or gaps, creating a clean, finished look, and possibly even contributing to structural integrity by sealing gaps. Molding, a type of trim, has a decorative profile—a shape or design that adds visual interest. All molding is trim, but not all trim is molding. A flat piece of wood around a window is trim, but a carved piece with intricate details is both trim and molding.
Identifying Trim and Molding
Here are common examples:
- Casing: The trim (and often molding) around doors and windows.
- Baseboard: Trim along the bottom of walls, protecting them and adding a polished look.
- Crown Molding: Decorative molding at the top of the wall, adding elegance.
- Chair Rail: Molding running horizontally along the wall, traditionally protecting walls from chair damage.
- Picture Rail: Molding for hanging pictures without damaging walls.
Selecting Trim and Molding
Consider your home’s architectural style when choosing trim. Material choice is also important:
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | Classic look, natural beauty | Requires regular maintenance |
| MDF | Cost-effective, smooth surface for painting | Not as durable as wood |
| PVC | Durable, weather-resistant | Can look less natural than wood |
Is it Spelled Molding or Moulding?
Both “molding” (American English) and “moulding” (British English) are correct. Use “molding” for American audiences and “moulding” for British audiences. Consistency is key.
| Spelling | Region | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Molding | American English | “The new molding enhances the door frame.” |
| Moulding | British English | “The decorative moulding adds a touch of elegance.” |
Beyond spelling, molding adds character and craftsmanship to a house, from ornate crown molding to sleek baseboards. Choosing the right molding enhances a space’s aesthetic. Various materials like wood, MDF, PVC, and flexible molding offer different pros and cons.
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