May 27, 2025
When it comes to home improvement projects that add value to a property, moulding is often overlooked. Installing moulding can easily enhance a home’s interior while increasing its market appeal, making it an advantageous investment for homeowners.
Let’s explore how decorative trim can transform your residence, improve aesthetics, and potentially provide a return on investment.
What Is Moulding?
Moulding is a decorative trim installed along walls, ceilings, doors, and windows. It’s the final touch that elevates any room.
Its versatility allows it to serve multiple purposes, such as covering transitions or gaps between surfaces, adding architectural interest, or decorating a space.
Moulding can range from a simple and functional strip to a highly ornate design and can be made from different materials, including plaster or solid-milled wood.
Does Moulding Increase Home Value?
While the return on investment (ROI) for moulding installation isn’t exact, it can add some aesthetic value to a home, especially if paired with other renovations.
For example, according to Angi, a living room upgrade can increase your home’s ROI by up to 53%, and “adding crown molding can help increase that percentage slightly.”
A well-maintained property with thoughtful design elements will certainly have an edge over others in the competitive real estate market, increasing desirability and market value.
Cost vs. Value
The cost of moulding depends on various factors, including:
- Material Choice: MDF is budget-friendly (beginning at $4 to $10 per linear foot), while wood tends to be more expensive (ranging from $10 to $45 per linear foot). However, these materials offer superior durability and visual appeal when compared with MDF.
- Complexity of Installation: Intricate designs and custom work require skilled labor, increasing installation costs.
- Room Size and Scope: Larger rooms and extensive trim work will raise the overall cost, so homeowners should prioritize key areas for maximum impact.
Homes with professionally installed moulding can see returns in the form of increased market value and quicker sales.
Though exact ROI figures may vary, quality moulding usually pays off when selling a home. Homes featuring custom trim details can immediately stand out in listings and elicit more interest from buyers.
When and Where Should I Install Moulding?
From revitalizing an older home to elevating a newer property, knowing when and where to install moulding will make all the difference between aesthetics and functionality.
A few examples of the best times to install moulding include:
- If Your Older Home Needs Modernization: Moulding will refresh older homes by blending modern with classic design elements. Adding new moulding to cover flaws and outdated features will instantly update a space.
- If Your Newer Home Needs More Character: Even newer properties can gain character and warmth from the right moulding. Builders often use minimal trim to reduce costs, but homeowners can upgrade to higher-end moulding for a custom look.
Rooms Where Moulding Has the Biggest Impact
Key areas where moulding shines include living rooms, dining rooms, entryways and primary bedrooms.
These rooms are key for making great first impressions, especially with potential buyers. Additionally, adding moulding to high-traffic spots like hallways or staircases can elevate your home’s overall look and show that you prioritize style even in smaller transition spaces.
DIY vs. Professional Moulding Installation
If you’re comfortable with DIY projects, you can tackle basic moulding tasks yourself.
However, for more intricate designs, it’s worth hiring a professional. A skilled contractor will ensure precise cuts, smooth joints and a flawless finish that will last.
Moulding: A Valuable Home Upgrade
Moulding is a great way to upgrade the look of your home and increase its resale value without undergoing extreme renovations.
By adding character and functionality to spaces, moulding can create a one-of-a-kind design that will stand out to potential buyers and show that you take pride in the aesthetics of your home.
Ready to enhance your home with beautiful moulding? Visit Specialty Building Products and U.S. Lumber’s Moulding Page to find the best solutions for your next home improvement project.