Choosing the Perfect Decorative Wood Trim: A Buyer’s Guide

Lift Your Home’s Interior with Decorative Wood Trim

If you’re looking to add elegance and detail to your home, decorative wood trim is the perfect solution. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, a remodeler, or a local contractor, this guide will help you choose the ideal wood trim for your projects.

Quick Answer:

  • Types: Casing moulding, onlays and appliques, crown moulding
  • Styles: Colonial, Craftsman, Victorian
  • Wood Options: Poplar, Alder, Ash, Birch, Fir, Mahogany, Maple, Oak, Pine

Decorative wood trim isn’t just about adding visual appeal—it can bring cohesion to your home’s design, cover gaps, and protect surfaces. Ready to start on a home improvement journey with a touch of sophistication? Let’s dive in and explore the best options and styles available.

 

If you have questions or want to know about our incredible selection of wood trim, contact Builders Surplus or call us at 866-739-1636.

Types of Decorative Wood Trim

There are many types of wooden moulding and an array of profiles. Here are some examples:

Casing Moulding

Casing moulding is a versatile trim used around doors and windows to cover gaps and add a finished look. It comes in various styles to match different home aesthetics:

  • Colonial: Classic and symmetrical, often with simple, neat lines.
  • Craftsman: Sturdy and straightforward, featuring clean lines and minimal ornamentation.
  • Victorian: Richly detailed with intricate patterns, perfect for adding historical charm.

Installation Tips: Measure frames accurately and secure with a nail gun. For an even fit, ensure all cuts are precise.

Crown Moulding

Crown moulding is installed where the wall meets the ceiling, creating a “crown” effect that adds height and visual distinction to a room. It’s highly decorative and varies from simple to intricate designs.

  • Ceiling: Improves the transition between the wall and ceiling.
  • Cabinetry: Adds elegance and a finished look to kitchen cabinets.

Installation Tips: Measure angles carefully and use a miter saw for precise cuts. For larger rooms, opt for wider crown moulding to maintain proportion.

In the next section, we’ll explore the best types of wood for your decorative trim projects, ensuring you choose the right material for both durability and style.

Best Wood for Decorative Trim

Choosing the right wood for your decorative wood trim can make a big difference in the look and feel of your home. Here are some of the best woods to consider:

Poplar Wood

Poplar is a popular choice for interior work. It’s easy to work with, similar to pine, but it’s a hardwood. This makes it a great option for creative wood moldings. Poplar is smooth and takes paint well, making it perfect for projects where you want a clean, polished finish.

Why Choose Poplar?

  • Easy to Work With: Cuts and sands smoothly.
  • Great for Painting: Holds paint well for a flawless finish.
  • Cost-Effective: Affordable compared to other hardwoods.

Other Wood Types

While poplar is a fantastic choice, there are many other woods to consider, each with its own unique characteristics:

  • Alder: Light brown with a straight grain, easy to stain.
  • Ash: Light color with a noticeable grain, very durable.
  • Aspen: Soft and light, great for intricate designs.
  • Birch: Hard and strong, with a fine grain, ideal for a smooth finish.
  • Fir: Straight grain and a reddish-brown color, often used for structural elements.
  • Mahogany: Rich, dark color, and very durable, perfect for high-end projects.
  • Maple: Hard and dense, with a fine, even grain, excellent for a polished look.
  • Oak: Strong and durable, with a prominent grain, great for traditional styles.
  • Pine: Soft and easy to work with, often used for rustic or farmhouse styles.

Each of these woods comes unfinished and primed, allowing you to choose the paint or stain that best matches your home’s decor.

Tips for Choosing Wood:

  • Consider the Project: Match the wood type to the project’s needs (e.g., durability for baseboards, fine grain for intricate moldings).
  • Think About Finish: Some woods take paint better, while others are better for staining.
  • Budget: Some woods are more affordable than others, so consider your budget.

 

By selecting the right wood, you can ensure your wood trim not only looks great but also stands the test of time.

In the next section, we’ll dive into some DIY tips and trends to help you get the most out of your decorative trim projects.

DIY Tips and Trends

Adding decorative wood trim to your home can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. Plus you can use wooden moulding and trim for projects beyond the traditional, like:

DIY Mirror Frames

Create custom mirror frames using decorative wood trim. Choose a style that matches your home decor and cut the trim to fit around your mirror. This simple project can add a touch of sophistication to any room.

DIY Built-In Bookcase

Consider building a DIY built-in bookcase to add both storage and visual interest to your space. Using decorative trim can make it look like a custom piece of furniture. Attach it to your wall for a seamless, integrated appearance.

Window Seats

Add a cozy nook with a DIY window seat, framed beautifully with decorative wood trim. This project not only provides extra seating but also improves the charm of your home. Pair it with cushions and pillows for a comfortable and inviting space.

Adding a window seat with decorative wood trim - decorative wood trim

 

By following these tips and trends, you can transform your home with decorative wood trim in no time.

Everything You Need at Builders Surplus

When it comes to adding decorative wood trim to your home, Builders Surplus has you covered. We understand that every home improvement project is unique, and that’s why we offer a range of services and products to meet your specific needs.

 

We pride ourselves on delivering maximum value and substantial savings to our customers. Unlike other stores, we don’t use sales gimmicks. Instead, we focus on providing top-quality products at competitive prices, ensuring you get the best bang for your buck.

 

Ready to start your next home improvement project? Visit our moulding page to explore our extensive collection of decorative wood trim. For personal assistance, call us at 866-739-1636 or check our contact page to reach your nearest store. Our team is ready to help you transform your space with beautiful, high-quality trim and moulding.