Effect of Marble Foam Molding

What is Foam Molding?

• Foam molding is made of polystyrene foam. While it is similar to the foam used for packing and food materials, it is much harder to the touch and more durable. This type of molding typically is made in white, and different effects can be achieved by painting it. You also can find foam molding in traditional wood colors, various paint colors, or with special effects such as a marble look.

Characteristics

• Foam molding is extremely light, with each "board" weighing only a few ounces. It is significantly lighter than wood molding, which typically weighs at least a pound. Foam molding is also very hard to the touch and is manufactured to resist cracking. This provides a benefit over wood, which can crack during the installation process, especially if screws are used for installation.

Installation Benefits

• You can install foam crown molding by laying down a bead of construction adhesive on the wall and on the back of the molding. The molding is pressed firmly into place. This is suitable for masonry or plaster walls, where nailing crown molding into place is not possible. Trimming foam molding is also much easier and does not require any special woodworking tools. A simple utility knife is all that is needed to trim this material to fit.

The Finished Effect

• Marble foam molding looks much like marble from a distance, although, as you get closer, it is easier to detect that it is not authentic marble. Since crown molding is hung high on the wall, this should not be a major issue. Look at several marble patterns from manufacturers to find the most realistic pattern. This will influence the overall effect.