How much does it cost to install crown molding?

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

When crown molding first became popular, it was used specifically to cover any cracks or past damages on interior walls and ceilings. Today, it is also installed specifically as a decorative feature. Installing crown molding in your home enhances your home’s aesthetic and increases its overall value, too. For these reasons, it has become a popular addition for homeowners across the country.

The overall cost of your crown molding project depends on the size of the room, the materials you use, the intricacy of the molding pattern and other factors. The average cost to install crown molding ranges from $2,000 to $4,000, with most homeowners paying approximately $3,150 to install wood crown molding throughout their entire home. However, prices can range from $250 to install foam or medium-density fiberboard (MDF) molding in a single room to $6,500 to paint and install metal crown molding throughout a home.

Average Cost to Install Crown Molding

What Is Crown Molding?

Crown molding is a decorative, functional feature for homes of all shapes and sizes. It runs along the perimeter of interior spaces between the walls and ceiling and adds a stylistic flair to the room while hiding unsightly wires or past damages. Using the right color and size opens up your space and makes it appear larger.

Styles range from modern and simplistic to intricate and ornate, allowing you to customize the right look for your home. Molding can be made from various materials, including wood, plaster, PVC, foam, MDF, and metal.

Cost of Crown Molding by Material

Crown moldings can be crafted with many different materials. While they originally were only made out of wood, you are now able to select from synthetic materials that mimic the appearance of traditional crown molding while offering unique benefits in terms of efficiency, maintenance, and cost effectiveness. Among the most popular options, prices range from $0.50 to $30. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages. We’re going to dive into each below.

Foam Crown Molding

Foam crown molding is cost-effective, easy to install, and available in a variety of unique styles. Generally, it costs between $0.50 and $4. When properly installed, it can be difficult to discern the difference between foam moldings and traditional ones. Usually, foam crown molding is made out of high-density polystyrene or polyurethane. Let’s dive a bit deeper into each below.

Polystyrene Crown Molding

Polystyrene is a budget-friendly molding option, ranging from approximately $0.50 to $3 per linear foot. It is a plastic material that can be turned into a lightweight foam and can easily be installed with a foam-safe adhesive, making it ideal for a quick and easy project. However, it can dent very easily and doesn’t offer the most elegant look compared with other materials.

Polyurethane Crown Molding Cost

Polyurethane works well in most installations and costs between $2 and $4 per linear foot on average. It is a versatile plastic that is more stable than polystyrene and is even more rot- and insect-resistant than wood. It’s also an eco-friendly material that is CFC and formaldehyde-free. However, it is softer and dents very easily. Handling polyurethane takes a steady, gentle hand. Otherwise, you can find yourself messing it up before it even makes it to the wall.

MDF Crown Molding

Medium-density fiberboard is a combination of sawdust and resin and is one of the least expensive crown options. On average, it costs between $1 and $7 per linear foot. Most MDF moldings are supposed to be painted, though you can find some options that are made with a thin veneer for staining. MDF is fairly durable, but it is much softer than other materials, making it more prone to scratches.

PVC Crown Molding

PVC crown moldings cost between $2 and $4 per linear foot on average and are best used in bathrooms or spaces that see a lot of moisture. They are lightweight and can withstand high humidity levels, whereas traditional wood options would warp over time. While PVC has many functional benefits, it offers limited options in terms of style.

Wood Crown Molding

Wood is the industry standard for crown moldings and has been among the most popular options for homeowners across the country. On average, timber crown moldings cost between $2 and $30 per linear foot. Various types of wood are available to choose from for your project that can either be painted or stained to match your aesthetic. Since wood is heavier than its synthetic counterparts, it costs a bit more to install. Plus, it is more prone to water damage and rot over time, so routine cleaning and maintenance are necessary. Here’s a bit more information on the unique type of wood you can use.

Maple Crown Molding

Maple is naturally very pale, but it can be stained to resemble darker woods. It generally costs between $2 and $5 per linear foot, making it a great choice for homeowners who want the appearance of a finer wood without paying the price. Despite its cheaper price, maple is still very durable and easy to maintain. It’s a perfect choice if you want to customize your home’s look

Cedar Crown Molding

Cedar wood is light brown and has a light grain. This type of crown molding costs between $2 and $6 and is a great choice for interior applications. It is fairly durable and adds a unique look to any home. It resists cracking and swelling, but it must be regularly stained and sealed to protect against moisture, rot, and mold growth.

Oak Crown Molding

Oak crown molding is a hardwood that is strong and heavy but easy to use. People choose between two types of oak molding, depending on where they want to put it, their budget, and their style preferences. Red oak crown molding features a salmon-pink hue with medium grain. It costs between $3 and $7 per linear foot. It can be used throughout most rooms in your home except in areas with moisture, as it will decay if exposed to wet conditions.

White oak features a honey brown color with medium grain and can be used for interior and exterior applications. White oak crown molding is a bit more expensive than red oak, ranging between $6 and $12 per linear foot. This is because it is much stronger and can withstand weather conditions without deteriorating over time.

Cherry Crown Molding

Cherry crown molding ranges from $4 to $7 and features a light pinkish color and a fine grain. Over time, this type of wood becomes darker, transforming into a richer red. It is ready to stain without any preparations and adds a beautiful look to any home interior. With proper maintenance, cherry molding can be used outside, but it is best used for interior projects.

Mahogany Crown Molding

Mahogany crown molding ranges from $10 to $30 per linear foot. It has a deep red-brown color with a medium to heavy grain. It is an extremely hard wood, which makes it a durable and trustworthy choice for your molding. However, it also makes sawing difficult. You may need specialized tools to make clean cuts and use a grain filler before applying any finishes to it.

Plaster Crown Molding

Plaster crown molding is one of the more expensive options on the market, ranging from $6 and $15 on average. It is most useful if you want large elaborate designs placed on higher ceilings. Along with wood, plaster is a more traditional choice that has been around since before the rise of synthetic materials. If you’re considering plaster, you won’t be able to simply buy it off the shelf. This type of crown molding is made to order, which is why it can be more costly.

Metal Crown Molding

Metal molding is the most expensive molding option. It costs between $10 and $25 per linear foot and can complement interior and exterior features. You can use steel, copper, or aluminum, all of which offer great aesthetic features. However, they can dent easily, which means you’ll have to be careful during and after installation. It is also a bit more complicated to install as you’ll need a metal cutting saw and extra hands to lift the heavier materials.

Crown Molding Price by Type

People can install various types of crown molding to give the finished design a unique look. Each type is also installed differently, which is why it’s important to do your research before making a final decision. From the most common types, you can expect to pay between $3 and $15 per linear foot.

Hollow Crown Molding

Hollow crown molding is designed to hide cables and wires. This molding costs between $3 and $7. By installing this type of molding, you can save yourself the trouble of drilling holes in your walls. Hollow crown molding can be customized to meet your personal aesthetic so that you can hide unsightly cords without anyone noticing.

One-Piece Crown Molding

One-piece crown molding is the most basic type, ranging in price from $4 to $8. As the name suggests, it comes as a single piece that can be installed all at once. Most one-piece types are made out of MDF and add depth to your ceiling without the hassle of a lengthy installation process.

Two-Piece Crown Molding

Two-piece crown molding offers a bit more of an intricate look and costs between $5 and $10 on average. This type of molding is made up of one piece that is upside down and has a crown on top of it. By installing your crown molding in this manner, you can create a custom look for any room in your home.

Two-Piece Traditional Crown Molding

Two-piece traditional crown molding is set up similarly to two-piece molding, except there is a space between the two pieces where you can paint. On average, it costs between $7 and $12. Rather than producing a more modern look, this type of molding makes your home look more traditional and stately.

Three-Piece Crown Molding

Three-piece crown molding is available in different styles and is made by connecting slabs of materials to create one cohesive piece. It is generally a bit more expensive, ranging in cost from $8 to $15. This type of molding offers a luxurious, elegant look. Though it is called three-piece crown molding, some people even use up to five pieces to achieve a unique look for their home. This usually creates a thick and detailed molding.

Labor Cost to Install Crown Molding

You can install crown molding by yourself. However, it is always recommended to work with a professional for the best results. Carpenters generally charge between $4 and $8 per linear foot of crown molding installed for both materials and labor, or $50 to $70 per hour. However, this price varies depending on the materials you choose for your molding and the profile type you choose. Of those costs, about 25% is dedicated to labor alone. Depending on the size of the project and the type of materials you use, you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $4,000 for 500 linear feet of molding.

Cost to Install Molding per Linear Foot

When installing crown molding, the overall cost is broken down into materials and labor per linear foot of molding installed. While it isn’t necessary to have every room look completely identical, it is important to have unity between the rooms. With that being said, some people want to install crown molding in just one room while others upgrade the entire house. Depending on the size of the room, you can expect to pay between $120 and $4,000 on average. We’re going to take a closer look at common room sizes and the overall cost of installing crown molding in each.

Average Cost of Crown Molding by Molding Profile

Your choice of molding profile plays a part in the overall cost of your crown molding installation. Smaller profiles are easier to create and install, which makes them less expensive overall. On the other hand, larger, more intricate moldings cost much more, especially if they are made with plaster. There are a variety of options from which you can choose for your space. We will go over some of the popular molding profiles below, ranging in price from $1.50 to $30 per linear foot on average.

Bead and Curve

Bead and Curve styles are generally used for cabinets and bookcases rather than along the ceiling. This is because the crown is solid and doesn’t work well when placed directly along the edge of a ceiling. They generally cost between $1.50 and $5 per linear foot. Rather than having a cove, these styles feature a bead beneath the elongated “S” curve and create a dynamic and unique style.

Crown Molding With Rope Design

Crown molding with rope design can cost between $3 and $10 per linear foot. This type of crown molding is made with an intricate design that looks like ropes or a delicate cord strung with beads. To successfully create this design, each component is made separately and inserted into the crown rather than everything being manufactured at once. This allows for the maximum amount of customizability within the crown molding.

Dentil Crown Molding

Dentil crown molding is generally found in older historic homes rather than more modern properties. They cost between $4 and $10 per linear foot on average. This style features small, identical rectangles that project below the cornice and is mostly linked with Classical and Neoclassical designs. While this type of crown molding doesn’t hold any functional benefits, it provides a regal look for any building.

Double Bead Crown Molding

Double bead crown molding is a popular choice among homeowners and costs between $5 and $9 per linear foot. This one-piece crown molding features bead detailing on top of a beaded baseboard. It can add a classic, elegant look to any room in your home, including bedrooms and entryways. You can further customize the right look for your home with your choice of materials.

Leaf Crown Molding

Leaf crown molding is another great choice for a variety of homes. They generally range in price from $6 to $12 per linear foot. They are generally seen in Classical Revival-style homes and can offer an elegant touch to any room in your home. Leaf crown molding comes in various, unique styles so that you can find the perfect fit for your specific space.

Stair Steps

Stair steps crown molding costs between $7 and $11 per linear foot on average. It is yet another popular style that complements both 1920s Art Deco and contemporary interiors. Due to the overlaid strips of materials used to create this design, stair steps provide a unique layered look that adds dimension and style to your home.

Egg and Dart Crown Molding

Egg and Dart moldings feature a unique design that alternates between oval-shaped objects and arrows (or rather, eggs and darts). On average, this type of crown molding costs between $8 and $30 per linear foot. Originally, this design was used in classical architecture throughout Europe since the Renaissance. Today, it can be seen in homes all across the country.

Garland

Garland crown molding is a graceful style of crown molding that complements historic and modern homes alike. On average, they cost between $13 and $16 per linear foot. This type of crown molding features an attractive flower and vine design tucked neatly beneath a rippled crown. There are plenty of unique ways that you can implement garland crown molding to match your personal aesthetic.

Ornamental Ovolo

Ornamental ovolo crown molding is a unique style that can be installed throughout your home. On average, it ranges in cost from $16 to $25 per linear foot. It is a flexible polyurethane crown that is topped with a large curve (an ovolo), which forms a clean shadow line. This type of crown molding adds dimension to your room and opens up your space.

Cost to Install Crown Molding by Location

One of the most common places to install crown molding is along your ceiling. However, plenty of other spaces within your home can benefit from high-quality crown molding. On top of enhancing your home’s aesthetic and overall value, crown molding is a great way to hide blemishes from past damages. On average, you can expect to pay between $50 and $700, depending on the location. Here are some of the top places to add crown molding throughout your home.

Mantel Crown Molding

If you have a fireplace or other decorative mantels in your home, you can decorate them with crown molding. Depending on the size of the mantel, you can expect to pay between $50 and $175 for new crown molding. If you have molding along your ceilings, be sure the molding around the mantel matches it. Otherwise, it can throw off the room’s aesthetic.

Bookcase with Crown Molding

Dressing your bookshelf with crown molding costs between $75 and $300. Applying crown molding completely transforms your boring, plain shelves into elegant storage spaces. No matter the size or shape of your bookcase, various crown molding options are available from which you can choose. You can completely customize the perfect look for your project so that you can bring your version to life.

Entryway Crown Molding

Entryway crown molding ranges in price from $100 to $200 on average, depending on the size of your entryway and your molding materials. Adding crown molding to your entryway makes your entire space look larger and more welcoming, as it is often the first thing people will see when they walk through the door.

Add Crown Molding to Kitchen Cabinets

Crown molding can finish the tops of cabinets and ranges in cost from $150 and $350. Various styles and sizes are available to match your preferred aesthetic. Cabinetry crown molding lets you customize your kitchen by breathing life into any boring space. A great thing about crown molding is you don’t need to have it in every room, which means you can accentuate any space as you please.

Installing Crown Molding on Ceiling

Crown molding is most commonly installed along ceilings to open up smaller spaces. On average, crown molding costs between $200 and $700 per room, depending on the size and shape of the space. As far as home additions go, molding is extremely versatile and can be applied to any room with ease.

Cost to Install Crown Molding in Bedroom

Installing crown molding in a typical bedroom costs between $200 and $240. Adding molding to the main hallway is a great choice for many open-concept homes in which the living room is directly attached to a hallway. In hallways with lower ceilings, be sure to use a narrower molding. Otherwise, you risk making your space feel more cramped and crowded.

Cost to Install Crown Molding in Living Room

Living rooms are generally much larger than your average bedroom. You can expect to pay between $350 and $700. This is one of the most common places to add crown molding. For smaller rooms, it does a great job of opening up the area and making it appear larger. And for bigger rooms with high ceilings, it can tie the space together in an aesthetically pleasing way.

Crown Molding Installation on Different Ceiling Types

Not all ceilings are alike, and the shape and angles of yours impact the overall cost of installing crown molding. If you have a more intricate ceiling, you can add crown molding to your interior. Prices generally range from $8 to $30 per linear foot to install crown molding on these more complex types of ceilings. Let’s take a closer look.

Installing Crown Molding on Cathedral Ceiling

Installing crown molding on a sloped ceiling is a bit more complex than other types of crown molding. In addition to installing the larger pieces of molding, it is suggested to use a triangular transition piece to connect them at the apex. Otherwise, you need to have them specially cut to fit the steep incline of your vaulted ceiling. If you’re choosing to add crown molding on curved ceiling designs, you should definitely have a professional on your side to get the job done right.

Crown Molding on Uneven Ceiling

If your ceiling or walls are not level, it is still possible to install crown molding. However, the process is slightly different. The best way to properly install crown molding on an uneven ceiling is to combine multiple molding profiles to minimize the gaps that form when installing crown molding on an uneven ceiling. Another way around the problem is to attach the molding to small diagonal blocks.

Crown Molding on Coffered Ceiling

Installing crown molding on a coffered ceiling is a great way to add a dynamic look to your space. Coffered ceilings resemble a grid that is complete with beams that crisscross in diagonal or horizontal lines. By adding crown molding to these versatile ceilings, you add depth and dimension to your space. Several crown molding options allow you to customize your home’s look. Among the best options are ridged, beveled, and scalloped cut molding.

Cost to Replace Crown Molding

If your crown molding has seen better days, it may be time to call your local carpenter for a replacement. Before bringing the new products in, you will have to remove the old molding, which can be a rather time-consuming process without a professional on your side. You must remove small pieces of the crown molding at a time to avoid damages throughout the process.

Generally, it costs between $0.50 and $1.50 to remove a linear foot of crown molding. Additionally, you’ll have to pay for materials and labor for the new installation. On average, carpenters charge between $4 and $8 per linear foot installed. However, this price varies based on the molding profile you choose, the size of your room, and the molding materials. Between removing the old molding and installing the new, the project lasts between two to four hours. If there are minor flaws in your molding, you can do repairs on your own by filling in gaps and repainting. However, high-quality replacements may be more cost effective in the long run.

Styles of Crown Molding

Depending on your personal aesthetic, you can choose from plenty of unique crown molding styles for your home. While the specific look won’t impact the overall price of your project too much, it is still important to explore all your options, so you can find the perfect fit that brings your interior to life.

Craftsman Style Crown Molding

Craftsman style crown molding is inspired by multiple movements throughout history, including the Arts and Crafts, Bungalow, and Prairie movements. All three of these eras rejected the styles of the Victorian time period, which focused on machine-made products, instead emphasizing man-made materials. This classical style is extremely versatile for both interior and exterior applications on homes of every style.

Traditional Crown Molding

Traditional crown molding is simple and beautiful. It can be installed in any room throughout your home and fit nearly any aesthetic with ease. In the past, traditional crown molding was only made out of wood. Today, you can also customize the right design in a variety of synthetic materials. Additionally, traditional crown molding can be installed inside and outside of your home.

Victorian Crown Molding

Victorian crown molding is made up of elaborate combinations of shapes and profiles that blend in various unique ways. Victorian architecture boasted romanticist styles rather than relying on the rational designs of the Georgian era. This idea most definitely flowed into this type of crown molding. Victorian crown molding catches the eye and makes the viewer want to keep looking. It is important to use it tastefully throughout your space as it is easy to go overboard.

Art Deco Crown Molding

Art Deco crown molding is a combination of traditional geometric patterns mostly found in the artwork of indigenous people and more modern designs that have been developed throughout the years. This visually striking style adds interest to any room in your home. Plus, it is extremely versatile and can completely open up your space when installed along the borders of your ceiling. With Art Deco crown molding, you give your home a bold, unique appearance that lasts.

Mid-century Modern Crown Molding

Mid-century modern crown molding features clean lines and very simple shapes, making them one of the most versatile choices for all homes. This type of architecture is characterized by open floor plans that allow for a lot of natural light. With that being said, this style of molding will do wonders to make shorter ceilings appear taller, so your space opens up.

Farmhouse Style Crown Molding

If you’re looking for a simpler crown molding for your home, a farmhouse style is the way to go. There are many different ways to install crown molding to properly accentuate your home. You can choose from various materials, including wood, plaster, plastic, and other synthetic materials. For a true farmhouse style, wood is among the most authentic options. But you can achieve the same look by replicating wood with synthetic options.

Colonial Style Crown Molding

Colonial style crown molding originated circa 1725 to 1820 and is characterized by the simple, classic designs of the Georgian era. You can recognize this type of molding by its diverse stacked lines, creating a textured and elegant look. Due to its simplicity and clean-cut look, Colonial style crown molding is a very versatile option for any room in your home.

Greek Crown Molding

Greek crown molding originated circa 1820-1840 and is characterized by a vast array of design features that are easily recognizable throughout Greek architecture. This style is based on the ellipse rather than the circle and won popularity as architects moved into more intricate and unique styles rather than the traditional motifs. Greek crown molding is another option that offers a rather specific look that draws a lot of attention.

Arts and Crafts Crown Molding

Arts and Crafts crown molding is perfect for Craftsman-era homes and those from the Arts and Crafts movement. You may notice that Arts and Crafts crown molding is very similar to Craftsman style crown molding. That is because it actually predated the Craftsman era by about eight decades and was, in fact, the inspiration behind the Craftsman style. Rather than relying on architecture produced by machines, the Arts and Crafts movement focused on custom designs made by real people.

Crown Molding Size Chart

The thickness or “drop” of your crown molding depends on your ceiling height. Especially thick crown moldings can look overbearing in a room with low to average ceiling heights, which will make it feel smaller. Crown molding that is too thin in rooms with high ceilings can also look disproportionate. For that reason, it is especially important to pick the right size of crown molding for your unique space. Below is a table of drop proportion guidelines.

Cost to Paint Crown Molding

Painting your crown molding is a great way to brighten up your room. Most people choose to paint their crown molding white to provide a nice accent to the room. If you’re thinking about adding a splash of color instead, there are a couple of great ways to do it. You can choose a color that is analogous to the color of your walls. This means they are located next to each other on the color wheel and provide more balance. Or, you can choose colors that are on opposite ends of the color wheel for more contrast.

Generally speaking, there are two main ways to paint your crown molding: hand painting and spray painting. When spray painting, you need to paint before installing the crown molding in your home. And while you technically can hand paint after installation, it is recommended to always do it beforehand. The best choice for the finish is either a semi-gloss or high-gloss option as these both can withstand being washed often.

Though you can paint on your own, it’s always recommended to hire a professional for the best results. The only type of crown molding that absolutely has to be painted is MDF. However, you can paint every type of material for crown molding to bring your room to life, including stained wood. If you would rather stick with a more natural look, stained wood crown molding is another great option. Between labor and materials, you can expect to pay between $150 and $600 to paint the crown molding in one to three rooms.

Exterior Crown Molding

In addition to enhancing the rooms inside your home, crown molding can be installed on your exterior, too. Many homeowners like to add these decorative features to windows and doors. Much like interior crown molding projects, it’s important to choose materials and styles that complement your home’s architectural style. Molding products are available in wood and synthetic materials like composites and cellular PVC.

These synthetic materials are generally better for exterior applications because they are less susceptible to water damage and are more lightweight and low-maintenance. Prices don’t vary too much between interior and exterior projects. Costs vary based on material, sizing, and the intricacy of the design. You can expect to pay between $3 to $15 per linear foot for a simple design depending on the material you choose.

Pros and Cons of Crown Molding

Crown molding is a great addition that takes your home’s interior or exterior to the next level. Various unique options can be installed that range from clean and simple to elegant and ornate. On top of adding a decorative element to your interior, crown molding hides cracks and other blemishes along your ceiling, walls, cabinetry, and more. Additionally, it can tastefully manipulate the dimensions of your space by accentuating high ceilings to make a room feel cozier and opening up low ceilings to make a space feel more grandiose.

There aren’t many downsides to crown molding, but there are a handful of ways that installing it can go wrong. The most common mistake many homeowners make is choosing the wrong size and color. Both of these actions can make your space feel smaller and more cluttered. Another issue people run into is installing too many different designs. It is unnecessary to have matching crown molding in every single room, but there should be at least a sense of a cohesive design. Be sure to take a long look at your space to ensure your crown molding adds to your home’s aesthetic rather than detracts from it.

Cove Molding vs Crown Molding

Both cove and crown molding are used as an aesthetically pleasing way to connect the walls of your home to the ceiling. The main difference between the two lies in their shape. Cove molding offers a more modern, simple look featuring a concave appearance. They are available in narrow widths and generally don’t vary much in style. Most people use them to smooth transitions between walls and ceilings, cabinets, and stairs.

On the other hand, crown molding offers a more complex appearance featuring both concave and convex profile features in a wide range of options. Since crown molding is more intricate, it has more limited uses than cove molding and can’t be used on bottom corners. Both crown and cove molding are similar in price, costing between $4 to $8 per linear foot installed.

Foam vs Wood Crown Molding

Foam crown molding is a more cost-effective alternative to wood options. The molding will generally be made out of either polyurethane or polystyrene manipulated to look like traditional crown molding. Many people choose foam molding because it is easy to install, inexpensive, and easily customizable. However, it is not suited for textured walls or ceilings. It is still durable and long-lasting, even though it is much lighter than wood crown molding.

Wood crown molding requires more heavy-duty tools for installation and is prone to rotting and water damage over time. With wood molding, you have various types from which to choose. You can add color for a unique look. On average, foam crown molding costs between $0.50 and $4. Wood crown molding costs between $3 and $30.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Custom Crown Molding

Endless crown molding options are available for installation. You can also customize your own from scratch. Generally speaking, ordering custom crown molding costs more than twice as much and takes up to six weeks to make. That being said, you can expect to pay between $4,000 and $6,500 on average to install crown molding throughout your home.

Crown Molding with LED Lights

By adding LED lights to your crown molding, you create a unique look with indirect cove lighting. LED lights are more sustainable and cost-effective, making them a great choice for your home. Plus, they are easy to work with and can be customized to match your aesthetic. On average, it costs between $20 and $80 for a 75-inch crown molding with indirect lighting.

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