Crown molding is a decorative but functional trim that adds an elegant touch to any room. It can also add value to your home (if well-maintained) and help conceal imperfections in walls and ceiling joints. Learn more about each crown molding type and how to tackle installation as a do-it-yourself (DIY) project.
Types of Crown Molding Profiles
Crown molding comes in many styles, each with its own characteristics.
Ovolo and Scotia
This classic crown molding profile combines two distinct curves: the ovolo and the scotia. The ovolo, a convex curve, appears at the bottom of the profile, while the concave scotia sits above it. This combination creates depth through the use of light and shadow.
Elliptical Ogee
The elliptical ogee profile features a sweeping S-shaped curve that dominates the molding’s appearance. This profile has its roots in classical Greek architecture and became particularly popular during the Greek Revival period in American design, starting in the 1820s. The ogee’s graceful curves create a softer, more elegant look than more angular profiles.
Cove and Ogee Combinations
Many crown molding profiles combine cove and ogee shapes to create a versatile design. This combo can serve as an understated ornament by itself or be combined with other profiles to form more complex patterns. Its versatility makes cove and ogee combinations a popular choice for many architectural styles.
Angles and Ogees
This molding profile manipulates light and dark with sharp angles and shallow ogees. The combination of both adds depth and variety.
Ovolos
This piece of crown features a bulbous bullnose called an ovolo at its bottom and another at the top. A protrusion nearly perpendicular to the wall and ceiling creates a sharp divide when lit from beneath.
Part of a Cornice
This molding, applied to the wall with blocking behind it, would combine with another piece to butt against the ceiling in a multiple-profile cornice.
Quirk Beads
The two beads along the edges of this profile stop at a sharp dip before transitioning to the cove’s curve. The dip and the ellipse, called a quirk bead, adds a bit of flare to an otherwise straightforward profile.
Ogee Alone
This piece’s single pronounced ogee allows light to fade as it travels across its surface, creating a softer shadow than what’s common in more complex pieces.
Cove and Beads
A small bead at the top and bottom of this cove molding acts as a border, easing a transition between this piece and adjacent, complementary moldings.
Reflected Profiles
An unusual symmetry emerges in this piece of crown molding. Two types of ogees, divided by a raised point, mirror one another.
Universal Style
The cove and undulating ogee seen here form a classic pair. This piece brings together two basic building blocks of profiles and would embellish the interior of most styles of houses.
Quirk Ogee
With roots in classic Greek and Roman architecture, the quirk ogee’s double curve and sharp stop are useful for a chair rail, window casing, or on crown molding.
Slim Accent
This strip, barely over an inch wide, can easily combine with other profiles to assemble an intricate cornice. Narrow pieces like this work well in tight overhead corners, such as above kitchen cabinets.
Craftsman Cove
Arts and Crafts architects favor a simple cove molding over a heavily ornamented crown. This single, convex curve looks best with a clear finish, as the movement’s founders favored wood’s natural beauty over frilly detail.
Straight Edges
Craftsman-style houses often feature built-in bookcases and shelves. This geometric profile’s crisp angles can complement built-ins nicely, toning down a busy wall.
Combination Piece
This cove molding includes a small reverse ogee—convex below, concave above—at the top. Though the thick sample is a single-milled piece, preindustrial carpenters would likely have joined these separate profiles as part of a built-up profile.
Shallow Cove
This simple convex curve protrudes from the wall at its bottom, which means it creates a dramatic shadow or, combined with more molding pieces below, becomes part of a larger and more ornate assembly.
Popular Crown Molding Styles
Crown molding styles often reflect specific architectural periods or design philosophies.
Classical Greek and Roman Inspired
Classical Greek and Roman-inspired crown molding features intricate details and precise geometry and work particularly well for traditional or neoclassical interiors. These styles typically include:
- Acanthus leaf motifs: Stylized representations of the acanthus plant
- Dentil molding: Small, tooth-like blocks arranged in a row
- Egg-and-dart patterns: Alternating oval and arrow-shaped designs
Craftsman and Arts & Crafts
Craftsman and Arts and Crafts style homes emphasize simplicity and natural beauty. These work well in homes that highlight natural materials by focusing on clean lines and subtle details to create an inviting atmosphere. Key features include:
- Clear finishes that highlight wood grain
- Geometric patterns
- Simple cove profiles
Contemporary and Minimalist
Modern and minimalist crown molding styles have clean lines and subtle details. These profiles often feature:
- Minimal ornamentation
- Sleek, angular designs
- Smooth, uninterrupted surfaces
Contemporary crown molding can add sophistication to modern interiors without overwhelming the space or competing with other design elements.
Materials Used in Crown Molding
The material used for crown molding can impact how it looks, how long it lasts, and how easy it is to install. Here are some common materials used in crown molding.
Wood Crown Molding
Wood is a traditional material for crown molding. It has a natural look and can be painted or stained to match any decor. Common wood types for crown molding include the following:
- Oak: Durable with a prominent grain pattern
- Pine: Affordable and easy to work with
- Poplar: Takes paint well and is resistant to warping
Wood crown molding can be customized onsite and is great for homes with other wood trim elements.
Polyurethane Crown Molding
Polyurethane crown molding is a lightweight, synthetic option that has several advantages:
- Available in a wide range of styles and sizes
- Easy to install
- Resistant to moisture and insects
While polyurethane molding can closely mimic the look of wood, it may not have the same warmth or character as natural materials.
Plaster Crown Molding
Plaster crown molding is a traditional option that offers unparalleled detail and customization. It has the following benefits:
- Ability to create intricate designs
- Historical accuracy for period restorations
- Seamless appearance when installed
However, plaster molding is typically more expensive and requires specialized installation skills.
Choosing the Right Crown Molding for Your Space
Consider the following factors when choosing crown molding for your home.
Room Size and Ceiling Height
The scale of your crown molding should be proportionate to the room’s dimensions. As a general rule:
- Larger rooms with high ceilings can accommodate wider, more elaborate moldings.
- Smaller rooms or those with lower ceilings benefit from simpler, narrower profiles.
Architectural Style
Choose crown molding that complements your home’s overall architectural style. For example:
- Colonial-style homes often feature dentil molding or simple ogee profiles.
- Modern homes can benefit from sleek, minimalist crown molding designs.
- Victorian houses may incorporate more ornate, multipiece crown molding.
Existing Trim
Be sure your crown molding coordinates with other trim elements in the room, such as baseboards, door casings, and window trim. While they don’t have to match exactly, keeping a consistent style and scale creates a cohesive look throughout the space.
Crown Molding Installation Techniques and Tips
Installing crown molding requires precision for a professional-looking result. Here are some guidelines.
Measuring and Cutting Crown Molding
Accurately measure and cut your molding before installation. Keep in mind the following best practices:
- Measure the room’s perimeter carefully, accounting for any corners or obstacles
- Use a miter saw set at the correct angle for precise cuts
- Cut slightly long and adjust as needed for a tight fit
Dealing with Corners and Angles
Corners can be challenging when installing crown molding. Consider these techniques:
- Use a coping saw for inside corners to achieve a tight fit
- Create scarf joints for long runs to avoid visible seams
- Use corner blocks for difficult angles or to add decorative elements
Cleaning Crown Molding
Regular maintenance can keep your crown molding beautiful for years. Here are some tips.
Regular Dusting Methods
- Avoiding abrasive cleaning products that could damage the surface
- Using a microfiber duster or vacuum attachment weekly
- Wiping down molding with a slightly damp cloth as needed
Stubborn Stains and Discoloration
- Apply wood cleaner for stained or natural wood molding
- Test cleaning solutions in an inconspicuous area first
- Use a mild soap solution for painted molding
Repairing Damaged Crown Molding
- Fill small cracks or holes with wood filler or spackle
- Replace severely damaged sections entirely, if necessary
- Touch up paint or stain to keep a uniform appearance
