Exterior Molding Styles

History

• Exterior molding and trim have been incorporated into the exterior of homes, palaces and temples for centuries. In the seventh century, Japan's Asuka period saw the incorporation of ornate wooden detailing in the form of molding and corner trim into traditional Japanese buildings and temples. In the European Victorian era in the middle of the nineteenth century, elaborate architectural detailing introduced a revival of Gothic styles through detailed exterior molding and detailing. The industrial revolution created a mass-manufacturing process that made trim and molding widely available to general consumers. Exterior molding is now a common piece of exterior home design.

Function

• As a visual, aesthetic element to exterior home design, exterior molding is a simple and inexpensive way to remodel or update a home's exterior. Exterior molding styles can be used to create a cohesive look to the outside of a home, particularly in historical restorations. Exterior molding can match the color or style of a home's exterior, or it can serve as a contrasting element to a modern home in terms of molding color or style.

Types

• Exterior trim and molding are available in a wide variety of styles and types. Wood molding is one of the less common molding options because of its tendency to warp with exposure to heat and moisture. However, wood molding can be handcrafted into several elaborate design styles, making it an ideal choice for restored historical homes.

  Plastic exterior molding is a more common material choice, because it is resistant to weather damage. Plastic moldings can be purchased in a variety of styles that resemble interior crown moldings. Plastic exterior molding is typically a single, solid piece, which means that some designs that are possible in handcrafted wood molding are not possible in plastic molding. Other synthetic materials such as DuraBoard are designed to look like wood and have all of the advantages of wood without the potential drawbacks associated with warping or weathering.

  Modern homes in the craftsman or post-modern styles incorporate minimalist trim in simple vinyl or wood beams. Typically the minimalist style uses trim in white or cream colors to minimize visual distractions.

Benefits

• Exterior molding contributes to a home's value by increasing the curb appeal of the home. Selecting appropriate exterior molding is an essential component to home renovation and historical restoration. Exterior trim and molding also provides an opportunity to add color to a home's exterior. Trim and molding make a home look finished, increasing the overall value of the home.

Considerations

• Exterior molding can be used to frame windows, doors and the sides of a home. Exterior trim and molding can also add detail to roof lines, gables or porches. It's important to choose exterior molding in a style and color that complements the overall exterior design of the home, as well as the surrounding landscape. For example, a minimalist home pairs best with simple molding rather than ornately detailed handcrafted wood molding.