Styrofoam Crown Molding

Styrofoam crown molding is easy to mount, durable and growing in popularity.

Crown molding is a decorative molding attached at the top of a wall where it meets the ceiling. It's available in an assortment of patterns and styles that offer consumers the opportunity to choose moldings that fit their décor. Styrofoam molding is growing in popularity because it is easy to install and more affordable than wood.

Installing Styrofoam crown molding is an inexpensive decorative option for those who like the rich finishing touch of crown molding without the hefty cost of real wood. That's right, it looks like wood but is only a fraction of the cost. Plus, it is so easy to install that a beginner can do it. Unlike standard crown molding, you can attach Styrofoam molding without the use of:

• Hammers
• Nails
• Saws
• Miter cutting
• Power tools

Styrofoam molding isn't new. It's been installed by architects for years in homes and other buildings like museums. Benefits include:

• Affordable
• Available in a number of decorative styles
• Can be installed by one person
• Doesn't crack
• Doesn't decay
• Doesn't rot
• Doesn't succumb to insect damage
• Durable
• Installs easily using adhesive and caulk
• Light-weight
• No primer necessary; it's ready to paint
• Pre-cut corners
• Requires no special tools
• Resistant to moisture
• Versatile

The one disadvantage worth mentioning is that Styrofoam can melt or burn if exposed to flame. Because of this, it must be encased as it will release toxic fumes when burned.

Measure the room(s) where you plan to install the lightweight crown molding and be sure to gather accurate corner angle measurements before you order. Since there's no nailing or use of power tools, you can paint the molding before you install it. Let it dry thoroughly before you install.

• Install inside and outside crown molding corners.
• Stick a strip of peel-and-stick adhesive on the back of corner molding pieces and press into place in the appropriate corner. It takes about 20 minutes to dry all the way. During that time, keep an eye on the pieces to be sure they stay level while they permanently affix. For best results, let adhesive sit at room temperature 24 hours or more before applying. This helps the glue to set up faster.
• Fit middle pieces between corners. If they don't fit, you can use a pull saw to cut it to size. Again, add adhesive to the back. Put molding in place. Watch it. Make sure it lines up as the glue dries.
• Caulk joints and allow to set.
• Sand caulk until smooth.
• Spackle where needed and touch up paint as needed.

Not all paints are compatible with Styrofoam. You'll want to avoid lacquer-based paints as well as spray enamels.

For most Styrofoam molding, no primer is necessary. Finish coats can be applied using:

• Water-based paint
• Latex paint
• Enamel paint (not in a spray)

Paint can be applied with a brush or sprayed on if you choose to use a water-based paint. This works well because water can be added to thin paint to keep it workable.

When you're ready to by your crown molding check with your local home improvement store; if they don't have it in stock, ask them if they can order it for you. A number suppliers make it available online as well. Here are a few resources to get you started:

• Renovator's Supply, Inc.
• Creative Crown Molding of Dallas
• Decorative Ceiling Tiles.net

• Apron Sinks
• Interior Painting Techniques
• Front Entry Porch Pictures

• Glass Tile Backsplash Ideas
• How to Install a Bathtub
• Build a Kitchen Banquette
• Sliding Wood Closet Doors
• Wood Plank Look Ceramic Tile

• Category:Misc. Home Improvement
• Easy to Install Crown Molding
• No Nailing Crown Molding
• Inexpensive Crown Molding
• How to Install Crown Molding