How to Choose Trim for Your Home

If the plain walls of a home or ugly joints around floor or window frames are unappealing, a homeowner should consider adding trim to change the look and style of the home. It not only adds a personal touch to walls, windows, doors, floors, and ceiling spaces but also accentuates architecture and increases the value of the home. Trims also serve the purpose of concealing the gaps that are invariably in most homes.

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Choosing the perfect trim for a home

Whether renovating an older home or searching for something bold and unique to add finishing touches throughout the house, trims make an excellent choice. Before choosing the right interior trim for a home, it is crucial to know the types available. Here is a list of different kinds of trim:

  • Baseboard- This is installed at the base of the walls to conceal any gap between floor and wall finishes. It is the most common type of trim found in houses and comes in a variety of widths. It can be combined with shoe molding to accent walls and floors. 

  • Crown Molding- It is found at the intersection of walls and ceilings. They can range from plain to intricate depending on the architecture and the decor style of the home. It is also used to create an illusion of space and height in a room. It is constructed from materials such as wood, MDF board, and high-density polyurethane foam and other composite materials.

  • Wainscoting- is an interior panel covering the lower portion of a wall. Typically, 32 to 36 inches high, it can be made from individual boards or plywood sheets. 

  • Chair Rail- This trim protects the wall from any furniture placed against it. While it can be installed at any height, it is commonly found at the top of wainscotting.

  • Door and Window Casings- These go around doors and windows and make the hallway seem larger. This trim hides the framing pieces used to install doors and windows. These days it is mostly used for decoration.

Some other popular trims include panel molding, wall trims, shiplap paneling, mantels, columns, plate rail.

Essential factors to take into account while selecting a trim

  • The décor.

  • The size of the room. Large moldings may not look good in small spaces.

  • The durability of the trim option selected. Some trims can be more durable in some spaces.

  • Budget.

  • The material of trim. Wood trims are solid and durable and will offer a classy and bold design statement. 

  • Style of the home

  • Location of the room

  • All trim elements should go together.

  • Choose trims that imitate a single architectural style.


Trim stands out and catches the attention right away. It is a relatively inexpensive way to transform the look of a home. Whether the home is a traditional or contemporary design, trim options will change the look and feel of a home dramatically.

The Wood Doctor is the leader in wood restoration, refinishing and refacing in the Portland area. Call 503-560-5220 for a project consultation.

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