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If you love interior design, chances are that when you’re house hunting, you’re looking for those extra special touches that make a home stand out. One special feature you aren’t guaranteed to find in every home is crown molding. Some homeowners have crown molding at the top of their wishlist, but the big question is — is crown molding worth the hype?

What is crown molding?Ìý

You will find this decorative trim along the seam where walls meet the ceiling throughout a home or in certain rooms. Crown molding creates an elegant transition that adds visual appeal and architectural detail to a room. It comes in various styles, materials, and sizes, allowing homeowners to choose based on their aesthetic preferences and the home's architectural style. It’s easy to confuse crown molding with other similar features like baseboard trim or chair rails that can decorate a home, but crown molding specifically refers to trim near the ceiling, not other parts of the wall.Ìý

Different types of crown molding that are popular include:

• Wood crown molding: Classic and elegant, ideal for traditional or historic homes. Wood molding can come in exotic woods, but more classic woods like oak, cherry, or pine are also popular choices, offering a timeless and sophisticated touch.Ìý
• MDF crown molding: Cost-effective and versatile, suitable for various styles. Medium density fiberboard (MDF) is an engineered wood product made by compressing wood fibers and resin to create a dense, smooth board used in furniture and construction.Ìý
• Polyurethane/foam crown molding: Lightweight and easy to install, perfect for modern or budget-conscious designs. Foam and polyurethane molding options provide a cleaner, more minimalist aesthetic.
• Plaster crown molding: Exquisite and intricate, often found in upscale or historic settings. Plaster crown molding really makes a statement with ornamental trim made from plaster applied along the juncture of walls and ceilings for decorative purposes.

Is crown molding outdated?

Crown molding may not seem necessary at first glance — and it isn’t — but it can really elevate your space. While some people may not see the appeal of crown molding and may find it to be outdated, many homeowners would be happy to find it in their homes.Ìý

In the past, when more minimalist design trends were in the spotlight, it was less common to see crown molding in new builds (which conveniently saved builders money). With more European and traditional design styles becoming trendy again, crown molding is once again back in the spotlight.Ìý

Ultimately, while it might not be en vogue in every modern setting, crown molding continues to give homeowners a refined and polished look, if that’s what they desire.Ìý

How much does crown molding cost?

Visually, it’s easy to see why potential buyers value crown molding and hope to have it in their homes. However, there is also a reason you won’t find it in every home, despite how popular it is because crown molding can be a bit pricey.Ìý

According to Homelight, as of 2023, the price range for installing crown molding usually falls between $7 and $16 per linear foot, factoring in the materials used and labor expenses. On average, for a standard living room, the cost ranges from $460 to $1,100. For a kitchen, it typically lands between $210 and $570. For a complete home crown molding installation, the overall expenses, covering both labor and materials, generally span from $2,000 to $4,000.

Other factors like ceiling height, chosen materials, and painting services, can all impact crown molding costs. It’s a good idea to figure out exactly what you’re looking for before you shop around for quotes to get a better idea of cost.Ìý

How does crown molding increase home value?

If you are weighing the importance of crown molding, you may have resale value at the top of your mind. At the end of the day, crown molding on its own is not enough to increase the value of a home. However, when combined with other quality finishes and tasteful features (like wainscoting), it helps contribute to an overall higher home value. Crown molding can really polish a room and make it look more expensive, but it won’t have the same impact on value as, say, a freshly renovated bathroom or kitchen. Other investments, like wood flooring, may make more of an impact on home value.

How to install crown molding

If you want to have crown molding in your home but don’t want to pay for expensive labor costs, you can always choose to DIY this task. With a little planning, you can master this home improvement by following these steps:

• Step 1. Measure twice: Start by measuring your walls accurately. Taking these measurements twice will help you buy the correct amount of molding. Take precise measurements of each wall.
• Step 2. Select the molding: Choose the type of molding you want. MDF or foam is easier for beginners, while wood gives a more classic look and will last longer.
• Step 3. Start cutting angles: Use a miter saw to cut the molding at 45-degree angles for corners. If it's an inside corner, cope one piece by cutting along the profile of the molding.
• Step 4. Prime and paint: It’s easier to paint the molding before installation. Once cut, prime and paint it according to your preference.
• Step 5. Install the first piece: Begin with a straight wall. You will apply wood glue at the back, then secure it in place with nails or a nail gun.
• Step 6. Handling corners: For inside corners, ensure the angles are precise and snugly fit together. Outside corners need a perfect match, too.
• Step 7. Merge sections: If your wall requires multiple pieces to cover the length, cut the second piece at a 45-degree angle to fit perfectly against the first one.
• Step 8. Make the finishing touches: Secure the pieces with nails or a nail gun. Fill any gaps with caulk for a seamless finish.

Still a little nervous about tackling this DIY? You can practice cuts to help you get more familiar with the initial steps of this project. Get comfortable with the miter saw by practicing cuts on scrap pieces. Take your time with all the steps. When it comes to crown molding, precision matters and rushing can lead to mistakes. You also don’t want to skip any safety measures by rushing through this project. You should always wear safety goggles, especially when using power tools.

Is it worth installing crown molding to your home?

It can be really hard to quantify the value the crown molding adds to a home. If you bought or are planning to buy a home without this feature, don’t sweat it. If you want to add crown molding because you love how it looks, then go for it. If you don’t notice its absence, then you don’t need to feel pressured to add it to your home. There’s no guarantee having crown molding will enhance your home value, so you need to focus on the intrinsic value it brings you when making this decision.