mouldings

Mouldings, or moldings in American spelling, are long, narrow decorative or functional trim pieces used to conceal transitions between surfaces and to add architectural detail. They are applied to walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, and furniture, and can be interior or exterior elements. Common locations include the wall-ceiling junction (crown moulding), the wall-floor edge (baseboard), and around openings or along furniture edges (casing, chair rails).

Mouldings come in many profiles and styles, from simple beaded or rounded shapes to elaborate classical motifs such as cavetto, ovolo, dentil, and acanthus. They are used to define rooms and emphasize proportions, and they often reflect period styles as well as contemporary design.

Materials and methods vary. Traditional timber mouldings are cut from softwoods or hardwoods, while plaster mouldings are cast for intricate reliefs. Modern options include polyurethane, PVC, and MDF, which offer moisture resistance, durability, and cost benefits. Profiles are produced by milling, carving, casting, or extrusion and may be sold as stock lengths or custom profiles.

Installation and finishing require careful planning for joints and alignment. Mouldings are typically nailed or glued in place, with mitre joints at corners. They are finished with paint, stain, varnish, or sealants, and exterior pieces may require sealing against moisture and UV exposure. Gaps are caulked, and seasonal movement is accounted for in design and installation.

Historically central to architectural style, mouldings span classical, Gothic, Baroque, and revival periods and remain common in modern interiors. Today they range from understated contemporary trims to highly ornate features, produced in a wide array of materials to suit different climates and budgets.