Many years ago, designers from different countries used moldings in the decoration of residential premises and for furniture decoration. Since then, this element is now in demand, then it is forgotten. Today, decorative molding has again burst into design fashion. Therefore, we suggest you find out in more detail what kind of material it is, what it is made of and how to use it in the interior.
What is molding?
Molding is a decorative element that has the form of a laid on volumetric plank made of various materials. Usually its length starts from two meters. The width of the molding can be completely different - from one to more than ten centimeters.
In the context, this decorative element can also be different: flat, convex, carved, curved, with many small additional details and so on.
Types of molding according to the material of manufacture
Today, decorative molding, depending on the material of manufacture, can be of the following type:
- Foam. This is the cheapest and most common type of decorative elements. They are very light and highly resistant to moisture. There is also a very large variety in appearance. In operation, foam molding also does not cause difficulties. The only drawback of the material is that it is quite easy to spoil.
- Polyurethane Such a molding is lighter than gypsum, but stronger than foam. At the same time, it is also quite budgetary and is represented by a wide range. There is even a flexible polyurethane molding, which allows you to create a finish of any shape.
- Wooden. This is an environmentally friendly, but expensive form of molding. It has a beautiful decorative appearance, a solid surface, but is not resistant to moisture.
- Marble, gypsum and metal. These species are not widespread, as they are quite expensive, heavy and difficult to work with. Basically, these types of moldings are used to create interiors and facades of houses in historical style, where new technologies are inappropriate.
Polyfoam and polyurethane moldings are in the greatest demand and have a lot of positive reviews. Consumers note that, in addition to a good price, they differ in a wide range. You can choose an already finished suitable surface or decorate it at home yourself. To do this is not very difficult, so you can not resort to the help of builders.
Self-adhesive decorative molding is in special demand. Many people note that it is convenient in work and does not require special knowledge and skills. Self-adhesive molding has the appearance of a border, and it is made of rubber or plastic. Most often used in the bathroom to mask the junction between the bath and the wall.
Where can I use moldings?
Decorative molding in the interior is used for:
- breaking walls into separate sections;
- masking defects and finishing errors;
- masking joints between wallpaper, wall and ceiling, wall and door frame;
- creating objects that attract attention;
- protecting walls from unexpected damage;
- creating frames around small windows to visually enlarge them;
- creating cornices and various decor on the ceiling ;
- giving an interesting appearance to the furniture;
- creating unusual skirting boards, as well as doors and arches.
Depending on the application, decorative moldings for furniture, walls and ceilings are distinguished.
Ceiling molding
This molding is various types of stucco moldings and plinths. With their help, you can not only make an interesting decor of the ceiling, but also mask the irregularities and defects of the finish. For decoration, products from foam or polyurethane are most often used.
Ceiling moldings can have different shapes and widths - from flat to convex and embossed, from narrow to very wide. You can paint them in the color of the ceiling or give them a completely different shade.
Wall moldings
This type of moldings has a fairly wide range of applications. They are used not only for various wall decor, but also as a surface around doorways, arches and windows. There are a huge number of options for wall elements: narrow and wide, even and convex, smooth and with relief. Decorative wall moldings are selected based on the size and style of the room, as well as the shape and color of the baseboard.
The most commonly used strips are foam and polyurethane. With their help, usually distinguish various zones on the wall, which are then glued with bright wallpaper or painted in a different color. That is, with the help of decorative moldings they create frames for bright accents in the interior.
There is also a special kind of decorative strips that resemble columns. They are quite wide and embossed. The upper and lower parts have a special decorative look. With their help, you can not only perform the interior in a classic style, but also mask serious coating defects.
Foam or polyurethane door and arch moldings are a more affordable alternative to wooden platbands. They can be familiar rectangular or oval and even curly. You can also make them in completely different colors.
Window molding is most often used in white. With it, you can visually enlarge small windows and mask the joints between the slopes and the wall.
Furniture moldings
Decorative furniture molding is used to decorate various carpentry. It is of three types: smooth, textured, metallized. The latter helps to create an imitation of furniture, entirely or partially made of metal.
With the help of furniture molding, you can update old carpentry and create designer interior items without any special material costs.
Features of the installation of moldings, recommendations and reviews
Since the main function of molding is the decor of the room and interior items, then during its installation you need to work very carefully so as not to damage the surface of the plank and leave no traces on it.
Decorative elements are fastened most often with the help of a special adhesive based on silicone. Many note that with its help it is very easy to install not only foam and polyurethane moldings on a flat surface, but also metal ones. Decorative panels are mounted on porous walls or ceilings using liquid nails.
To make the whole process easy and the end result amazing, it’s important to consider their appearance when installing moldings. Flat panels are much easier to work with. It is enough to cut the corners where necessary, and gently stick.
When your panels have a curly look, you need to do the markup first. To do this, attach the molding to the appropriate place and gently circle it with a thin pencil line. Then glue the decorative elements clearly along the contour.
If you analyze the reviews of those who used moldings in their interior, it turns out that:
- the most popular trims are foam and polyurethane;
- for a budget price, you can easily create an interesting design, emphasize the advantages and hide surface imperfections;
- if you work carefully, you can easily cope on your own.
Choose the right option and decorate your home as you like!