Baseboard moulding and window trims are a great finish to any room due to their aesthetic appeal. Other than visually completing a room, they carry a functional role by protecting walls from future chips. It’s no wonder why homes today continue to have baseboard moulding and window trim installed.
The next step after deciding to install these finishes is…choosing the materials! Bet you didn’t see that one coming! Weighing the benefits and drawbacks of various materials is important but time consuming. Trust me when I say picking materials can be a headache. Ultimately, it comes down to your values and needs, from affordability to aesthetic.
Wood (a.k.a. the classic)
In my opinion, you can never go wrong with solid wood. Wood is a classic material, known for its durability and traditional look. Contrary to popular belief, when treated and maintained properly, wood can last a lifetime. Both window trim and baseboard can be carved into multiple profiles, and either stained or colored.
PVC (Polyvinyl chloride)
PVC is virtually weather resistant, making it popular for exterior window trim or baseboard moulding. You can throw rain, snow, and extreme humidity at PVC and it will still stand the test of time. It’s true that PVC lasts longer than wood, and can be molded into any form wood takes. Due to its longevity, PVC reduces further maintenance costs for homeowners.
MDF and Composite Wood
MDF is a cheaper alternative to real wood, made from compacting wood fibres. It conforms well to wall irregularities, leaves a nice finish, and doesn’t shrink or swell as much as wood. As a window trim, it’s great. But there are cons too. Be careful using MDF for baseboard moulding, since it dents easily. Its natural enemies? Children, toys, and pets.
Composite wood though, unlike MDF, is resistant to dents and scratches. This is because it’s made from a combination of wood bits and plastic binded together. It’s a perfect candidate for baseboard moulding. Other advantages are its durability. However, composite wood tends to give a synthetic appearance, which is undesirable to some people.
Stainless Steel (A ‘Modern’ Baseboard)
Stainless steel is recently becoming a popular baseboard moulding. While a stainless steel baseboard seems unconventional, it really adds a fresh and modern vibe to your home. Although the profiles are simplistic, its texture and reflection adds complexity to its finish. To top it off, this baseboard is durable and easy-to-clean.