What Trim Should I Use?
When constructing a new home, finding the appropriate trim can be a nerve-wracking experience. Consider factors such as room size, housing size, architectural style, personal preference, ceiling height, and budget among many others.
One of the most crucial choices you’ll have to make when constructing a new house is the trim you’ll use in each individual room. To help you make a more informed choice, here are some compiled guidelines for you, along with advice, suggestions, and plenty of visual aids.
Interior Trim Types
First, let’s break down the many types of common trim, their prices, and when and why each would be appropriate to utilize. Remember that the rest of the article’s cost estimates apply to pine molding.
While stain-grade wood like oak or cherry would be somewhat pricey, MDF would be on the cheaper end. Like most building materials, trimmings are offered by linear foot rather than a square foot.
1. Base Mouldings
To finish off the transition from the wall to the floor, a base trim is installed. Traditional base molding featured a three-piece design. A shoe (the small curved piece that sits on the floor and is nailed to the baseboard). The floorboards (the tall, flat piece).
The crown (an ornamental piece that sits on top of the baseboard). These days, most homes have two-piece base moldings that are modern in design.
First, we have the baseboard, which serves as both the baseboard and the cap. This is the second piece, the actual shoe.
Every house you enter will have base molding. Except for the most cutting-edge projects, standard trim will always be there. It hasn’t been used once in all the hundreds of houses we’ve remodeled or built.
Selecting high-quality base trim is essential for any home construction or renovation project. The only choices are in terms of form and proportion.
Baseboards are a seemingly insignificant feature that can have a major impact on the overall aesthetic of your home. Baseboard moldings, which can vary in size from 3 1/4 inches to seven inches, can completely transform the aesthetic of a room.
Most homes have standard base molding, which is 3 1/4 inches wide and costs around $1.50 per foot. Trim with a width of 7 inches is typically found in mansions and other large residences, and it costs about $3.50 per linear foot.
Adding the smaller shoe molding that comes after the base trim will add another $.75 per linear foot to the total.
(I) What Size Base Moulding Should I Use?
Based on the hundreds of new constructions and remodels that have been completed, the following rule of thumb has been developed.
Bathrooms, bedrooms, closets, and utility rooms in a typical home of any size, from a small ranch to a two-story home with 2000 square feet of living space, would all have walls that are 3 1/4 inches in thickness.
We install at least 4.5′′ ceilings in all halls, as well as the kitchen, living room, dining room, master bedroom, and bathroom.
To be safe, go for a broader trim in the rooms where you and your visitors will be spending the most time. Fat trim is unnecessary in any closet or laundry area.
Beyond that point, you’d be making an upgrade, which isn’t a good idea unless you had the right kind of house and the money to spare. There’s no hard and fast rule, so just use your best judgment.
Don’t put in a 7′′ base if you have a modest ranch; that’s more appropriate for mansions. All of the homes we work on that are 5,000 square feet or more and cost over a million dollars get 7 inches of base.
If you’re dead set on it, go for it, but realize that you won’t make any money if/when you decide to sell. Thicker trim is an upscale feature, and as such, only adds value to affluent homes.
Keep in mind, too, that you may achieve a stunning look with much thinner trim. Sometimes, smaller is better. The more elaborate an item is, the lower its quality may be.
Neither is the priciest option. If you want your home to look its finest, use trim that is in line with the market price. Upgrading should be done by going up one or two sizes, but not to the most expensive level because you would lose money on the resale.
(II)What Style Base Moulding Should I Use?
The style of base molding, or any other type of trim for that matter, is a question of taste and the home’s overall design. Sorry, but that’s the best piece of advice for you. The trim should complement the architectural style of the house.
Your goal is for everything to be harmonious. And you should definitely coordinate the different trim types with one another. Absolutely nothing should look out of place.
You shouldn’t put colonial trim on a contemporary home; it won’t look right. Apart from that, do as you please. If you are looking for ideas, you can get them from our website, Pinterest, Houzz, design blogs, or interior design magazines.
2. Wainscoting
Wainscoting is a decorative finish that can be applied to the lower part of a wall instead of just slapping on some drywall. Even if there’s just a modest shoe molding at the base, wainscoting will typically still have it.
Since wainscoting is often constructed on-site, the variety of available designs is practically endless. The finish can be any color you like but is most commonly a semi-glossy white.
Many of our customers have had us paint their wainscoting to complement the rest of the room’s decor. Oak or cherry wainscoting, finished with a costly stain, is another option for a certain type of high-end luxury property.
The beauty of wainscoting is that it can be used in any area of the house to complete the look of the walls or the stairs. Because it is made to order, it may come in virtually any size or design, making it a versatile addition to any house.
It’s hard for me to imagine a design scheme or type of house that wouldn’t benefit from the addition of wainscoting.
If you have the funds available, it is highly recommended to install wainscoting, as we do in every model home we construct and in the vast majority of the homes we build and remodel.
When faced with the simple yet complex choice of what trim to employ, wainscoting should definitely be considered.
(I) How Much Does Wainscoting Cost?
Since wainscoting is typically constructed on-site according to the specifications of the client, this question is difficult to answer. Obviously, you need a plan before you can move forward.
The best way to find a style you like is to browse images online or in magazines; then, once you’ve found one, you can schedule a meeting with a trim contractor or measure the area to get an estimate.
Wainscoting installation in a single room can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 (not including the cost of the supplies). If you’re handy and have the right tools, doing the work yourself can save you a tonne of money, but this isn’t something a beginner should do.
You will also need a good miter saw, tape measure, finish nail gun, a level, and a compressor, in addition to the knowledge and ability to do the work.
You can get an accurate estimate of how much your project will cost if you measure your walls and figure out how much trim and other supplies you will need based on your plan.
(II) What Style of Wainscoting Should I Use?
The style and number of panels of wainscoting you wish to install, as well as the square footage of the room(s), will determine the bulk of your expenditures.
You’ll need flat boards for your panels even if you’re just doing a basic panel design, and you’ll need a trim to give those panels a beveled edge if you want it.
In addition to the baseboard and cal, you’ll need a cal. Wainscoting, even the most basic kind, always needs some sort of decorative molding.
To help our clients, we often display visual examples. When planning the inside of a new home, we find that having a massive photo library to look at is invaluable. Don’t try to come up with your own plan. It’s not a good DIY project unless you have a remarkable knack for decorating.
Find a photo of wainscoting that you like, either online or in a magazine, then dissect it. Some very exquisite homes have previously been created and built by the best interior designers and custom builders.
They’ve already done the legwork for you, so all you have to do is search for images online, pick the one you like, and steal it.
(III) What Size Wainscoting Should I Use?
Depending on the room’s dimensions, at what height should the wainscoting be installed? Again, “it depends” is the only acceptable response. The bottom a third of a wall is the typical height.
This is the standard for wainscoting and may be found in almost any house with it. Equal to around a third, this also applies to walls and staircases.
There will still be enough wall space for crown molding and paint on the remaining third. However, there is no requirement that it be constructed in accordance with the norm.
You could go bigger if you wanted to, but there is not a single house that went smaller. See below for a picture of a beautiful home that has wainscoting along the lower two-thirds of its walls and then paints and crown molding along the upper third.
(IV) What are the Hidden DIY Costs of Installing Wainscoting Myself?
One way you could achieve this is by offering your services pro bono. If you have the correct equipment and the necessary expertise, this is a viable choice.
If you need help, there are a tonne of free resource pictures and instructional videos on how to construct wainscoting on the internet.
Although you aren’t financially compensating yourself, think about how much work goes into installing wainscoting on your own.
Many common items, such as nails, putty or wood filler, a sanding block or sandpaper, and wood glue, are essential yet are sometimes overlooked when budgeting.
Finally, don’t forget to account for trash. Even when we hire the greatest trim specialists, we end up with around 10% of waste on homes that cost a million dollars. If you can, use the discount to purchase whole sets so you can easily return unused items.
It’s a complete waste of time and money how often homeowners go back to Home Depot for more materials. Take two measurements, create a list of what you’ll need, go out and get it, and then increase your budget by 10%.
3. Chair Rail
The horizontal trim in the middle of a wall known as the “chair rail” is a decorative element. It’s normal chair height, so it’s around 3 feet off the ground. preventing damage to the wall from being pushed against by furniture.
An elegant and proportionate finishing touch, chair rail molding visually divides a wall into an upper and lower section. You can complete the wall in a few different ways thanks to this divide.
Do you plan on making the chair rail match the wall color by painting it white? Or something altogether distinct in hue. Whether or not the wall’s hue varies from its top to its bottom.
If you decide to install crown molding, do you plan to match its color to the chair rail? Chair rail requires cutting the wall in half and ensuring that the halves are of equal height.
(I) How High Should I Install Chair Rail?
In modern times, chair rail serves less of a functional purpose and is primarily installed for aesthetic purposes. Typically, the chair rail is set up between 32 and 40 inches from the ground.
The chair rail is raised or lowered depending on the height of the ceiling. As a result, the standard height for a 9-foot ceiling is 36 inches, while a 10-foot ceiling calls for a 40-inch installation. Above 10 feet, we usually use 40 inches. Be cautious about how high you put up the chair rail.
Keep in mind that the goal is to create a pattern on the wall by varying its height. If you have an 8-foot ceiling, the upper two-thirds should be the most expensive part of the room, while the lowest third should be the cheapest.
As the wall rises, its proportions shift, but it’s still vital to note that the top is taller than the bottom. You’re aiming for just such an appearance. Chair rails are fine, but not if you install them too high and divide the wall in two.
(II) How Much Does Chair Rail Cost?
Chair rail prices are quite sensitive to the level of the ornateness of the railing you choose. Prices for pine go from as little as $1 per linear foot to as high as $5 per foot. MDF would cost less, but stain-grade wood would cost significantly more.
Since chair rail is essentially just a long piece of trim nailed to the wall, its installation costs are relatively low in comparison to those of other trim jobs.
It’s more expensive since cutting corners takes more time. Long walls that require a joint will also require extra time. In New Jersey, the average cost of labor to remodel a single room is about $400.
(III) What Style of Chair Rail Should I Use?
The chair rail should complement the other trims in the room. Consider not only the chair rail but the entire house’s trim and the architectural style you want before making a decision.
It’s important that all the trim styles complement one another and the home’s design scheme. To begin, decide on a house type. Then you should coordinate your trims accordingly.
Customers should check out several reference pictures before making a final decision. You can find countless pictures of houses that are among the best you’ve ever seen. Several of them can be found on our very own website and weblog.
Browse through them until you locate a set of pictures that you adore. Create a similar atmosphere in your own home by adopting the style.
Any reputable builder or trim contractor worth their salt will gladly get down with you and go through the photos while answering your concerns and offering advice as we do at Hambrick. This is the most effective strategy since the end result can be envisioned before any effort is done.
(IV) Is Chair Rail a DIY Project?
Chair rail trim installation is a terrific Do It Yourself job. With some practice and the right equipment, it’s one of the simpler trimming tasks. We won’t go into detail about how to set it up here because there are plenty of tutorials available online.
To create the necessary angle and joint cuts, you’ll need a quality miter saw, along with a nail gun and compressor, a tape measure, a level, and a pencil.
Some professionals use wood glue on trim installation joints, but it’s not required. Don’t forget the sanding block and medium-to-fine grit sandpaper for smoothing up the wood putty.
Painters caulk is used to seal the joints between the trim and the wall after painting. So that it will shrink as little as possible, have it installed just before you paint. You’re only attempting to fill in the blanks, so make sure you wipe off enough.
Excessive caulking is a common issue with do-it-yourself trim work. If you botch the trim installation, don’t try to cover it up with a thick layer of caulk; instead, take your time and restore the area properly the first time.
4. Window Trim
One of the most prevalent kinds of trim in a house is window trim, often called casing. Even though sheetrock alone can be used to frame a window, most modern homes still include wood casings for their windows.
Four pieces of trim with 45-degree cuts are typically used to frame a window. A frame is formed by nailing the pieces together, and then that frame is affixed to the window’s edges, sill, and sill.
This is a quick and simple approach to trim windows of any size because all four edges are identical. A photo frame is the name of this technique.
(I) The Window Sill
Another usual method involves constructing a frame around the top, left, and right sides of the window and adding a sill, a lower piece of trim.
While picture framing is the norm for most modern homes, we frequently use sills to enclose window openings. It doesn’t matter either way you frame a window, you’ll be doing it well.
Remember that either can be used in the same household provided that everyone uses them consistently. Simply put, don’t put a sill under one window and a picture frame under the other in the same room.
If a room has four identical windows, all of the windows should have the same amount of trimming. Sills are typically installed in the windows of the bathroom, the sink area of the kitchen, and other large windows that may be accessorized with plants, candles, or other ornaments.
If you want to decorate your window, it helps if you have a deep sill to put things on. The apron, the horizontal section beneath the shelf, can be cut to any size and form you choose. The depth of the shelf is up to you and your needs, as well as the aesthetic of your space.
(II) What Style of Window Trim Should I Use?
Your window trim, like the rest of your home’s trim, should be coordinated with the other styles. Make sure it coordinates with the rest of the house’s decor and not simply the trim.
You and your builder should look at a number of images of model homes and other reference rooms to decide what you like.
Colonial, flat stock, craftsman, craftsman with a fillet, craftsmen with a fillet and cap, and Cambridge are just a few examples of the more ornate forms of the window trim. That’s just the most well-known possibility, too.
Be careful not to go overboard. Create molding that complements the cost and size of your house. Investing tens of thousands of dollars in bespoke finishes is risky if the demand in your area is not high enough to justify the cost.
(III) What Size Window Trim Should I Use?
Window casings can be anything from 2 1/4 inches to 4 inches in width, with the former being the norm in most houses and the latter being the norm in huge, expensive mansions. Select the trim that is standard and tasteful in your region.
Consider taking a peek inside some of the local homes for sale on Zillow to get an idea of what to expect. You can go up a size if you like, but don’t overdo it.
Upgrade to a 2 1/2′′ or 2 3/4′′ if that’s what the rest of the neighborhood is using, but don’t go any bigger than 4′′ if 2 1/4′′ is standard.
If you try to resell it, you’ll lose all of your money. Larger spaces require wider trimmings. That’s the rule of thumb, generally speaking. Pricing isn’t the only factor. It is reasonable to utilize lesser trim on one million-dollar home if the size of the home itself is modest.
Wider trim works well on a large home. Maintain coherence. Unless you’re striving for a specific look, all of your window trimmings should be uniform. Wider trimming is acceptable if the window in question is a huge picture window.
Stick to the same general aesthetic and coordinate with the rest of the trim. Usually, there will be multiple options for a given trim style, making it simple to choose a good match. One further rule of thumb is that external doors should be larger than windows but internal doors should be the same size.
(IV) Is Window Trim a DIY Project?
Repairing or replacing window casings on your own is a terrific weekend job. In the event that you have the means and ability to accomplish it. You can easily picture frame a window by measuring and cutting a series of 45-degree angles using a miter saw.
The cutting and measuring are handled by the measuring tape and saw. It’s not as simple as adding chair rail or wainscoting, but it’s not too difficult either.
To correctly install a window sill, you’ll need a jigsaw to cut the sill to size, but by all means, give it a try if you’re handy with a saw and have the necessary skill.
You’ll be OK. A professional should be consulted if you plan to trim a large number of windows or perform other complex tasks, but trimming one or two windows is not difficult.
5. Door Trim
Door trim, like window trim, is typically installed as a frame with three sides. This is because, unlike window trim, door trim does not need a bottom.
The window trim and door trim in your home should be complementary to one another. But using trim of varying widths helps draw attention to the various features of a house. When it comes to the bulk of the custom homes we construct, we stick to this rule of thumb when doing the trimming.
- The trim around the front door is always the largest and most ornate.
- In contrast to the entry door, large external doors have a narrower trim. French, sliding, and bifold patio doors are all good options.
- Side and laundry doors, among the smallest exterior doors, are reduced in size.
- Most interior doors and window casings have the same width.
Typically, we choose trim that is proportional to the size of the door or window. You should know that this has nothing to do with fashion. There is no hard and fast rule on how much variation there should be in trim sizes within a given style.
Just like with windows, a custom design is the most ornate option for door trim. The top and side trim are two different pieces. The trim can be as elaborate and intricate as desired because each piece is unique.
You can customize the final profile and appearance by having each component individually cut and installed. Layering is the key to creating that unique trim. The final look was achieved by assembling a variety of prefabricated parts.
Stock trim from a hardware store like Home Depot or Lowe’s will never look as good as personalized trim work.
6. Crown Moulding
The crown molding sits atop the wall. It is important to consider the overall scale of the house, the dimensions of the space, the available money, and the desired aesthetic before settling on a particular style and amount of trim. Crown molding is a timeless and elegant addition to any space.
Crown molding is great because it can be used to create a finished cap for a wall or cabinet and a seamless transition from the wall to the ceiling.
Crown molding allows the transition from one plane to another to be more gradual and comfortable for the viewer than a sharp corner would be.
Even the plainest space may be given a luxurious makeover with the addition of some simple crown molding.
(I) What Are Some Benefits of Crown Molding?
There’s a reason crown molding exists. It was common for the junction between the ceiling and wall in older homes to develop cracks. Lath and plaster, rather than drywall and spackle, were utilized to construct older dwellings.
Plaster is more rigid and often splits. Consequently, crown molding was developed to address this issue. Its practical use was to hide the seams where two surfaces were joined. It’s a pleasant bonus that it works well with the decor of any house.
Crowns are being used for more than only patching up chips and gaps. Crown molding, when installed properly, may make a room feel more spacious by drawing the viewer’s gaze upward.
One of the most requested additions to both new and renovated homes is crown molding. It’s a rare improvement that can help you recoup your investment when you go to sell your house.
By adding crown molding, a room can go from boring to extraordinary. Just give it a try and see if it works for you. If you want to make even a modest bathroom look more elegant, try installing some crown molding.
(II) What Does Crown Molding Cost?
Crown molding, like the other trimmings, can get pretty intricate, so it’s hard to determine for sure. The price of custom-made multi-layered crown molding is extremely high.
Some customers even choose the even more expensive addition of lighting in their crown molding. Remember that crown molding, like other trims, is often priced per linear foot when estimating your project’s budget. So, for the time being, let’s talk about basic moldings that are readily available.
Simple 2 5/8″ crown molding may be purchased for roughly $2 per linear foot at any Home Depot. Their highest quality crown molding is 5 1/4 inches and costs about $3.50 per foot.
Stain grade is far more expensive than MDF, which is what this pricing reflects. Roughly, you may expect to pay two or three times as much.
Typically, the labor cost to install crown molding in a standard New Jersey living room is roughly $700. Around $400 should be plenty for a modest toilet room. Except for the paint, this takes care of everything. Plan on spending roughly $1000 to outfit a standard 300-square-foot living room.
(III) Is Crown Molding a Good DIY Project?
The answer, as with the other shapes, depends on the interrogator. Sure, give it a go if you have the equipment and expertise for it. If that’s not possible, it’s highly recommended that you get some help from a qualified expert.
Crown molding installation is not a simple task, even for trim subcontractors. The standard will be somewhat unstable. Check the accuracy of your cuts and the closeness of your gaps, particularly at the corners.
Molding should be installed with no gaps between it and the wall or ceiling. Avoid having spaces in the corners. Because of its height, crown molding requires more than one person to install.
Assuming the ceiling is high enough, you’ll also need at least two ladders and probably a scaffold in addition to the standard woodworking tools. Since crown molding is angled, a big miter saw will also be required. The best kind is the sliding kind.
It’s not worth it if you have to rent part or all of the equipment you need. The height of a room makes crown molding one of the trickiest trims to install.
Large gaps at the end joints and uneven gaps in the middle are common results for DIYers working with lengthy distances because of the difficulty in accurately measuring and cutting such dimensions.
If you’ve never attempted to install crown molding before, begin in a tiny bathroom. Small rooms are inexpensive and provide excellent practice for cutting joints.
7. Coffered Ceiling
The elegance of a coffered ceiling can’t be surpassed when you’re trying to give a boring space some depth and personality. In most houses, coffered ceilings are a luxurious extra that can be ordered at the customer’s request.
The enormous cost means that they are rarely seen outside of lavish custom mansions. Coffered ceilings are the way to go if you want a room to make a bold statement. A coffered ceiling is the pinnacle of exquisite bespoke trim work.
The ceiling trim can range in size, complexity, and detail just like any other kind of trim. When it comes to this field, the potential outcomes are practically limitless. Unlike popular belief, you are not limited to constructing only square containers.
Curves and other geometric shapes can be used as well. Additionally, you can customize the space by installing features like ceiling fans, speakers, recessed lighting, and even track LED lighting throughout the perimeter.
(I) What Does a Coffered Ceiling Cost?
A coffered ceiling’s price is extremely difficult to estimate, as there are so many factors to consider. Totally unique, made just for you! There’s a frame-up there above the trim, and it needs to be erected and fastened to the ceiling individually.
The coffers are eventually completed after cutting and installing numerous layers of trim. In order to get the desired results of tight joints and symmetrical coffers, it is essential that each component be measured and cut precisely.
The work is complex and requires a high level of expertise. Trim work is challenging and time-consuming even for experienced professionals. Both of these rooms are about 300–400 square feet in size and feature standard coffered ceilings.
There are large square coffers with crown molding inside, as well as recessed lighting and possibly a ceiling fan. The cost to recreate these rooms in New Jersey would be roughly $10,000. Materials and labor are included in that price. Aside from the paint.
About $25 can be expected to be spent for every ceiling square foot.
(II) Is a Coffered Ceiling a DIY Project?
In this case, I’ll have to decline the offer. The average housewife would be completely overwhelmed by the complexity. Furthermore, a high level of expertise and talent is required.
You can’t assume you can construct a coffered ceiling just because you know how to use a trim. It’s more of a specialized field within the building industry. Finding a trim guy who can not only construct them but do so to the standard of quality that our clients want, is a priority.
Luxury mansions in Spring Lake, Seagirt, Deal, Rumson, etc. are typical locations for these installations. High-end residence with demanding homeowners.
But remember that nothing is impossible, so if you’re serious about taking on the endeavor, you should probably start by watching a tonne of videos on YouTube and reading a tonne of articles.
Don’t rush, and instead think things through thoroughly. The key to a successful coffered ceiling is meticulous preparation. Before proceeding with trim work, make sure the frame is flawless. It’s not something you can knock out in a weekend.
(iii) What Size Coffered Ceiling Should I Build?
Coffered ceilings are visually appealing because they direct one’s attention upward, yet the beams actually reach lower into the space. Coffered ceilings, as a result, are ideal for spacious areas.
Those over nine feet in height are ideal. Adding a 6-inch coffer beam to an 8-foot ceiling would reduce the height to 7 1/2 feet. Additions of heavy beams and deep coffers to rooms with lower ceilings can make the space feel even more constricted.
In the same way that you would modify the size and style of any other type of trim to fit the dimensions of the space and the height of the ceiling, coffers must be tailored to their intended environment.
Regarding coffered ceilings, there are two sizes to think about, each with its own set of rules. The room’s height and width must be taken into account. If you have an 8-foot ceiling, the maximum depth you should go for with a coffer is 4 inches.
A 2 1/4″ crown molding above a single beam makes a huge difference in appearance. The maximum coffer height that is practical to install in a room with a 9-foot ceiling is 8 inches.
When the ceiling height reaches ten feet, practically any design is possible. Make the coffers quite deep if you have ceilings higher than 16 feet.
The size of the room is the second factor to think about. The images above and below show the basic form. The optimal layout for the space is to divide it into six separate vaults.
The ceiling will look too cluttered if you construct several individual coffers. To pull off modest coffers, you’ll need a spacious area. Also, it’s important to remember that the size of the vaults is not a hard and fast rule.
(IV) Do Coffered Ceilings Require Special Maintenance?
No. There is no unique care that must be taken for a coffered ceiling. Cracking at the seams between the trim and the ceiling or wall and gaps opening up at the joints are the most prevalent issues with any trim work.
Because wood expands and contracts as the temperature changes, this may occur after some time has passed and the work has settled. Caulk or some other filler and repainting would be required to fix these cracks.
Using the right number of nails and cutting nails of the right size will prevent this from happening. To ensure the longevity of the joints, we additionally apply wood glue.
All you need to do is contact a skilled trim contractor with experience in constructing coffered ceilings, and you won’t have to worry about a thing. Other than that, touch it up with paint or stain like you would any other inside trim.
8. Built Ins
Built-in shelves can be the solution to a variety of storage problems, including a little space that you want to utilize, a large wall that you don’t know what to do with, or an uncomfortable niche in the corner of a room.
Hardwood floors, multi-layered woodwork, and gorgeous built-in shelving and cupboards are hallmarks of older homes. Built-in shelving is usually only found in very expensive custom homes.
Find creative ways to add these classic features to your home to achieve the luxurious, elaborate aesthetic you’ve always wanted. Simply said, built-ins are cabinets or shelves that are permanently installed into a wall.
These shelves and cabinets serve the same purpose as those purchased at a store but are made to order so that they will fit properly in your home. Be sure to carefully consider the placement of your built-ins before beginning construction, as they will be permanent fixtures in your house.
They function more effectively when integrated into the original plan for the house rather than as an afterthought.
(I) What Does Built Ins Cost?
Custom cabinetry comes at a hefty price. You should know that your carpenter is creating your furniture from scratch and installing it in your home for good. The price of built-ins can be affected by a number of variables, including but not limited to the following:
- Just like with molding, built-ins can be crafted from a selection of materials. That has a major impact on the cost.
- Cabinets can be broken down into three distinct categories, based on their construction. Made to order, tailor-made, and ready-made. The prefabricated variety can be purchased and installed like standard kitchen cabinetry, while the semi-custom variety can be purchased and modified to some degree, and the custom variety is built from scratch.
- The price of labor varies according to both the size and intricacy of the project. There is a wide range of variation in this as well.
- It’s important to consider the design. The longer it takes, the more complex the design.
- More money is required for taller racks. Anything exceeding 8 feet in height is considered nonstandard and therefore more expensive.
- It’s going to cost more to fit everything in if you have to take out baseboards or the floor before you can start constructing your units. Moreover, you could have to foot the bill for some extra maintenance.
- Options: Doors, drawers, glass, etc., that are made just for you will cost more than stock options.
- Additions: Accessorising your units gives them a more unique look.
Get a professional trim worker who has worked on projects similar to yours before. You can’t hire any old trim guy and expect him to do a good job. Check out what they’ve accomplished after it’s complete. Always obtain multiple bids and go with the one you like most.
In addition, you can make a counteroffer. There is no stipulation in the contract requiring you to pay the sub’s bid. So long as you provide them with something of value, they will usually accept.
(II) What Style Built Ins Should I Build?
Your new built-ins should complement the existing furniture and molding in your home. The finishing touches should be well-coordinated. Nothing should stick out or feel out of place; rather, everything should flow together naturally. It’s a big job, but it’s not as difficult as it seems.
A dozen times or more, we’ve stressed the importance of using reference images, which is something we recommend to every customer. In large numbers. You may locate them quickly and easily for no cost on the internet.
Planning ahead for a project like this will help you save time and money in the long run while also guaranteeing a higher quality end result and a more satisfied customer.
(III) Is My Home Right For Built-Ins?
Without viewing your place, it’s difficult to give a definitive response to this important topic. While the exact location for a built-in in any given house may vary, it’s safe to say that almost any residence might benefit from such an addition.
When it comes to storage solutions, built-ins are one of the few options that are flexible enough to operate in any size house. In a truly unique custom house, where square footage is not a problem, they can be placed anywhere the homeowner desires.
Furthermore, in a compact dwelling, built-ins are a space-saving alternative to bulky pieces of furniture that require extra room between them and the wall and baseboards.
Today, tiny houses are all the rage, and those who want to get in on the trend need to get good at making the most out of limited quarters.
Built-ins are a great way to make the most of your living quarters because they eliminate clutter and provide much-needed storage. As a result, it’s worth considering a built-in, regardless of the shape or size of your house.
(IV) Do Build Ins Add Resale Value?
In most cases, this is correct. From our experience working on well over a hundred different homes, we can say that the vast majority of custom trim work really increases the value of the property. Don’t go overboard, though. Neither overspend nor overinvest.
Fitting in with the local community is essential. It’s not easy, and it does require effort and research, but it’s definitely worthwhile if you’re hoping to make money by selling your home for a profit, either as a flip or a resale.
Including built-in storage space is a terrific addition that many homebuyers will appreciate. In fact, it’s one of the most requested additions for brand-spanking new houses.
Make sure the design is suitable for the cost of your home. Just use your brain. Check at the interiors of homes selling in your desired price range on Zillow to get an idea of what the market is like. Complete it at the same level, or even better.
Our standard recommendation to our investing clientele is to recommend a sizing up. That is generally true. Try to outdo the norm just a little bit.
It’s a recipe for financial disaster to construct a mansion costing several million dollars in a neighborhood where the average home price is less than $200,000.
(V) Are Built Ins a Good DIY Project?
To answer your question, both yes and no. The answer is yes if you are planning on purchasing prefabricated cabinets and shelves, such as kitchen cabinets.
In-wall storage solutions are an excellent Do-It-Yourself task. But if you want to make all of the cabinets and shelves from scratch, it is advised to be against it. Getting a pro to do it is the best option.
If you lack the skills necessary to do so, DO NOT attempt to construct the shelves or cabinets. That is the first and most important rule. You run a high danger of having all you’ve created collapse under the weight of your possessions or else turn out incorrectly.
You can come up with any appearance you like, but in the end, you’ll need to hire a carpenter to build them or buy ready-made shelves from a store,
However, it is still advised by almost all homeowners to hire a professional even if they choose prefabricated shelves and cabinets from a home improvement store. In the same way that you wouldn’t put in your own kitchen counters and cabinets, you shouldn’t put in your own built-ins.
When you hire a professional, they will be able to install your built-ins using the proper equipment and with more experience, resulting in a higher-quality end product.
That is the single most crucial aspect of any renovation. It’s not enough to simply get the work done; it must be done properly and to a high-quality standard if you want to get the most enjoyment out of your property and the most return on investment when you resell.
A Final Tip: Make Sure All Trim Elements Go Together
Many different trims can be used within a house of any type. Particularly at the points where different moldings meet, you’ll want to be sure that your choices work harmoniously together.
Constant attention must be paid to both trim types and sizes. The following is a standard recommendation for size progression from thickest to thinnest.
Conclusion
When it comes to selecting trim for your home, you have countless alternatives to consider and styles from which to choose. Custom trim is a terrific way to give your home a unique and personal touch, whether you’re going for a sophisticated or whimsical style.
Keep in mind that bespoke trim work can never go wrong, no matter what your design aesthetic may be.
Frequently Asked Question(FAQ):
What Is Trim and How Does It Work?
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How Much Does Trim Cost?
The trim for an existing house typically costs around $610–$2,070, depending on the material and design intricacy. Removing existing trim from a house ranges from $0.55–$1.17 per lin. ft.
How Much Does It Cost to Install Baseboard?
Hiring a Pro. DIY baseboard replacement costs $0.80 to $1.20 per linear foot on average, which amounts to significant cost savings versus the $5.70 to $8.95 per linear foot it costs to hire a pro.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Baseboards?
Depending on the materials you choose, you could pay as little as $0.80 to $1.20 per linear foot. A home that needs 144 linear feet of baseboard translates to a materials cost of $115 to $175. Of course, if you choose premium materials or intricate designs, you’ll pay more.
What Is Considered Trim on a House Exterior?
The finish materials on the exterior of a building, such as moldings applied around openings (window trim, door trim), siding, windows, exterior doors, attic vents, crawl space vents, shutters, etc.
Baseboard Trim Options
- Three-Inch Rounded or Stepped Baseboard. LoveToKnow.
- Flat Baseboard Molding. LoveToKnow.
- Sculpted Mid-Height Baseboard Trim. LoveToKnow.
- Sculpted Taller Baseboard Molding. LoveToKnow.
- Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF)
- Pine.
- Hardwood.
- Contrasting Trim.
Types of Trim Molding
- of 15. Crown Molding. Given its name, it’s no surprise that crown molding is the king (or queen!) of trim.
- of 15. Baseboard.
- of 15. Chair Rail.
- of 15. Picture Rail.
- of 15. Picture Frame Molding.
- of 15. Panel Molding.
- of 15. Door or Window Trim (Casing)
- of 15. Kinsley Pierced Moulding.
What Size Baseboard Should I Use?
Here is a great rule of thumb: A standard 8-foot wall typically has a baseboard 3 to 5 inches tall, while a 10-foot ceiling calls for 5 to 7 inches. As a designer, I love adding height for drama. And the taller baseboards create a modern yet elegant finished look.
Should Trim Be Lighter or Darker Than Walls?
Paint the trim the same color as or a lighter shade than the wall color to make the walls feel like they are receding.
Does Door Trim and Baseboards Have to Match?
Painting all window and door trim, crown molding and baseboards the same colour provides consistency, but is not a rule. For example, only black baseboards will anchor a room while having only black crown moulding will frame the ceiling and draw your eye up. Similarly, door casings and doors don’t have to match.
Types of Wall Moulding
There are many wall trims to choose from. The most popular and functional ones are chair rail, wainscoting, crown molding, baseboards, picture frame wall molding, window and door casing, and picture or plate rail.
What Are the Four Types of Moldings?
- 1) Compression Molding. The compression molding process is used to make rubber and plastic parts.
- 2) Melt Molding. When applied to thermoplastic materials, compression molding is referred to as melt molding.
- 3) Transfer Molding.
- 4) Injection Molding.
What Is the Difference Between Quarter Round and Shoe Molding?
Quarter-round molding earns its name from its unique design, possessing a curved, perfect quarter-circle appearance. On the other hand, shoe molding has slightly sharper edges than quarter-round and looks more like a triangle than a circle.
What Paint to Use on Interior Trim?
Semi-gloss paint is always best for trim, doors and cabinetry because it’s so easy to wipe clean. You can also choose gloss paint because it’s also so easy to clean, but it’s significantly shinier.
What Is the Trim Around an Interior Door Called?
Interior door casing is the term used to describe the trim found around a door opening. According to This Old House, “Door casings are both decorative and utilitarian, enhancing the look of the door while also concealing the transition between the wall and the jamb.”
Is Molding Outdated?
Most people don’t feel crown molding is outdated. Crown molding will never go out of style. Keep the above tips in mind when considering purchasing crown molding for your home.
What Is the Cheapest Moulding?
- Inexpensive – Polyurethane moldings can cost as little as $1 per linear foot.
- Lightweight – These moldings are very easy for one person to handle.
- Easy to cut – Polyurethane does not splinter like wood, so if you are a novice at cutting moldings you won’t have to worry about broken ends.
What Is the Difference Between Casing and Trim?
Casing is a type of trim. Casing tends to refer to the trim around windows and doorways in a home. But trim can also refer to other types of molding, like baseboards or crown molding. Both are important for home design.
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