Molding

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Molding or moulding (Commonwealth), also known as coving (United Kingdom, Australia), is a strip of material with various profiles used to cover transitions between surfaces or for decoration. It is traditionally made from solid milled wood or plaster, but may be of plastic or reformed wood. In classical architecture and sculpture, the molding is often carved in marble or other stones.

Types of Molding[edit | edit source]

Molding profiles are available in a wide variety of materials and sizes. Some of the most common types include:

  • Crown Molding: This type of molding is used to cover the transition between a wall and a ceiling. Crown molding is often used in traditional and classical architecture.
  • Baseboard: Baseboard molding is used to cover the joint between a wall and a floor. It can also serve to protect the wall from damage.
  • Casing: Casing is used to cover the joint between a wall and a door or window. It can also serve to add decorative detail to a room.
  • Chair Rail: This type of molding is used to protect walls from damage caused by chairs. It can also serve to divide a wall into different sections for decorative purposes.
  • Picture Rail: Picture rail molding is used to hang pictures without damaging the wall. It can also serve to add decorative detail to a room.

History of Molding[edit | edit source]

The use of molding for decorative purposes dates back to ancient times. The ancient Greeks and Romans used molding to add detail and depth to their buildings and sculptures. In the Middle Ages, molding was often used in churches and cathedrals to add decorative detail. In the Renaissance, the use of molding became more widespread, with many homes and buildings featuring intricate molding designs.

Molding in Modern Architecture[edit | edit source]

In modern architecture, molding is often used for both functional and decorative purposes. It can serve to cover transitions between different surfaces, protect walls from damage, and add decorative detail to a room. Modern molding profiles are often simpler and less ornate than those used in classical architecture, reflecting the minimalist aesthetic of many modern designs.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Molding Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD