A Quick Guide to Mouldings

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A Quick Guide to Mouldings: Types, Uses & Materials

Mouldings may seem like a small detail in a room, but they make a big difference. Whether you're finishing a renovation or just want to add a polished look to a room, mouldings help add character, frame your walls, and tie everything together.

In this guide from Windsor Plywood, we’ll walk you through the most common types of mouldings, what they’re used for, and the materials they come in, so you can find the perfect fit for your project.

What Are Mouldings?

Mouldings are decorative or functional trim pieces used to cover transitions between surfaces or to add visual interest to a room. You’ll typically find them along floors, ceilings, around windows and doors, and even in the middle of walls as part of a design.

Beyond just decoration, mouldings can hide gaps, protect walls from furniture, and give your home a more finished, custom-built feel. Windsor Plywood offers a wide variety of moulding styles to help you finish your space beautifully.

Common Types of Mouldings and Where They’re Used

Baseboards

Baseboards

Where it goes: Along the bottom of the wall, where it meets the floor

Why use it: Covers wall-floor joint, protects from damage, and adds a clean finish.

Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and entryways

Casings

Casings

Where it goes: Around doors and windows

Why use it: Frames openings, hides gaps, adds style and structure.

Best for: Doors, windows, and passageways

Crown Moulding

Crown Moulding

Where it goes: At the top of the wall, where it meets the ceiling

Why use it: Adds elegance, height, and a refined finish.

Best for: Living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and formal areas

Chair Rail

Chair Rail

Where it goes: Horizontally, about 32"–36" up from the floor

Why use it: Originally for wall protection; now adds visual separation.

Best for: Dining rooms, stairways, hallways

Panel Moulding

Panel Moulding

Where it goes: Applied to flat wall or ceiling surfaces

Why use it: Creates panels, frames, or wainscoting. Adds dimension.

Best for: Feature walls, dining rooms, offices

Materials Used in Mouldings

Windsor Plywood offers mouldings in a variety of materials to suit your style and budget:

  • MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard): Smooth, paintable, and cost-effective.
  • Solid Wood (Pine, Oak, Maple): High-end, stainable, durable.
  • Finger-Jointed Wood: Paintable and budget-friendly alternative to solid wood.
  • PVC or Vinyl: Water-resistant, great for bathrooms, basements, exteriors.
  • Polyurethane: Lightweight and decorative, perfect for ornate trims.
  • Flexible Moulding: For curved walls, arches, and unique applications.

Tips for Choosing the Right Moulding

  • The Style of Your Home: Match moulding profiles to your home’s architecture.
  • Function of the Room: Use PVC for wet areas; crown or panel moulding for living spaces.
  • Paint vs. Stain: MDF/finger-jointed for paint; solid wood for natural stains.
  • DIY or Professional Install: Simpler profiles = easier install.
  • Budget Considerations: MDF is cost-effective; wood gives premium finish.

Final Thoughts

Mouldings are one of those finishing touches that make a home feel complete. They help define a space, protect walls, and elevate the overall design. Whether you're going for subtle elegance or bold architectural detail, there's a moulding style and material to match.

They’re also a great way to express your personal taste, whether you're restoring an older home or giving a newer space some extra character. Even small updates like replacing baseboards or adding crown mouldings can dramatically transform a room.

At Windsor Plywood, we carry a wide range of profiles, styles, and materials from classic wood to modern MDF and PVC trims. Visit your local Windsor Plywood store to browse our selection, get expert advice, and see how mouldings can bring your project to life. We’re always happy to help you find the perfect fit for your next home improvement.


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