Interior trim adds architectural character that distinguishes custom and well-renovated homes from production builds. Here's a practical guide to the most common trim applications in Northern Idaho homes.
Crown Molding
Crown molding runs at the wall-ceiling intersection and adds visual height and formality to a room. It's available in profiles ranging from simple coves (2 to 3 inches tall) to elaborate built-up profiles with multiple pieces (4 to 8 inches total height).
Profile selection should match the home's overall architectural character. Simple, clean profiles fit modern and contemporary homes. More elaborate profiles with multiple steps fit traditional and craftsman homes.
The standard for quality crown installation is a coped inside corner (not a mitered joint that will open over time) and a consistent gap at the ceiling line. Crown installation in rooms with vaulted or cathedral ceilings requires compound miter work and is more technically demanding.
Cost to add crown molding in Northern Idaho: $8 to $15 per linear foot installed, depending on profile complexity and ceiling height.
Wainscoting
Wainscoting is panel work that covers the lower portion of a wall -- typically 32 to 42 inches from the floor. It's most common in dining rooms, hallways, entries, and bathrooms.
Traditional wainscoting uses recessed panel frames (raised or flat center panels). Board-and-batten is a simpler, more casual variation using vertical boards with narrower battens over the seams. Both add durability (protecting the lower wall from chair backs and traffic) and visual interest.
Wainscoting height is typically determined by door casing height -- capping the wainscoting at the same height as the top of door casing creates a consistent horizontal line around the room.
Cost to add wainscoting: $15 to $25 per linear foot installed for board-and-batten, $20 to $35 for traditional panel wainscoting.
Base and Casing
Base molding (where the wall meets the floor) and casing (around doors and windows) are the most universal trim elements. Profile selection should be consistent throughout the house -- mixing profiles in different rooms looks unplanned.
Simple colonial and craftsman profiles are the most common in Northern Idaho homes. More elaborate profiles with multiple steps are appropriate in formal living areas.
Quality installation uses coped inside corners on base molding and back-cut miters at outside corners. Nail holes filled, all edges caulked before paint.
Chair Rail
Chair rail is a single horizontal band at approximately 32 to 36 inches from the floor. It's a simpler alternative to full wainscoting and common in dining rooms and breakfast areas. Often used as the dividing line between two different wall colors or treatments.
To discuss trim additions for your home, call Vandenberg Construction at (208) 582-8733.