Is it OK to Put Crown Molding in a Bathroom? The Ultimate Guide
Hey there! If you‘re wondering whether it‘s okay to put crown molding in your bathroom, you‘ve come to the right place. As an expert in home design and renovation, I‘m going to walk you through everything you need to know about installing crown molding in a bathroom.
Crown molding can totally transform the look and feel of your bathroom. But there are some important factors to consider first when it comes to moisture, installation, costs, and design. Read on for my complete guide to using crown molding in bathroom spaces.
The Many Benefits of Crown Molding in Bathrooms
So why add crown molding to your bathroom in the first place? Here are some of the top reasons to consider it:
-
Serious visual impact – Molding trim and detailing brings an instant sense of polish and luxury. It takes the bathroom to the next level visually.
-
Draws the eye up – Strategically placed molding helps make bathrooms look more open and expansive by leading the eye upwards.
-
Adds character – Crown molding can accentuate corners, arches, and other architectural details for added depth and interest.
-
Customizable look – With so many materials and designs, you can find crown molding for any bathroom decor – traditional, modern, coastal, you name it!
-
Enhances lighting – The shadows and detailing created by molding can spotlight fixtures and make lighting look more dramatic.
-
Increases value – Bathrooms with crown molding often appraise for a higher value. It‘s an ROI boost when it comes time to sell.
Choosing the Best Materials for Bathroom Crown Molding
The material you choose for your bathroom crown molding is key. Here‘s a run down of the most common options, pros and cons:
PVC/Vinyl
Pros: Extremely moisture resistant, budget friendly, available in tons of styles and finishes
Cons: Not as attractive as real wood, can show seams
Cost: Approximately $2 – $5 per linear foot
This is your best bet if cost and/or moisture resistance are priorities. With proper installation, PVC stands up very well to humidity and splashes. It‘s a great choice for small baths.
Polyurethane
Pros: Resilient, moisture-proof, realistic wood grain look, many finish options
Cons: More expensive than PVC, not as durable as real wood
Cost: Approximately $4 – $8 per linear foot
For a wood-like look without the maintenance, polyurethane molding is the way to go. It provides protection from moisture and comes in beautiful real-wood finishes.
Wood Composites
Pros: Cost effective, can be cut, shaped and painted easily
Cons: Not as water resistant as PVC or polyurethane
Cost: Approximately $3 – $7 per linear foot
Composite wood products like MDF are affordable, workable options, though they require thorough priming and sealing to hold up in bathrooms.
Real Wood
Pros: Timeless, elegant look and feel. Can be stained, painted, or have custom finishes
Cons: Requires extensive sealing and maintenance
Cost: Approximately $8 – $20 per linear foot
There‘s nothing quite like real wood for beauty and character. But it will need very careful prep and protection for bathroom use. Be sure to use rot-resistant species like poplar, ash or maple.
Plaster
Pros: Classic choice for ornate, decorative molding and medallions
Cons: Brittle material that can dent or deteriorate from moisture
Cost: Approximately $10 – $25 per linear foot
Plaster moldings are common in Victorian, Tuscan, and Old World style baths. But they require sealing and handle bumps/scrapes poorly, so use with care.
Concrete
Pros: Extremely durable and waterproof
Cons: Very heavy and cracks if hit or dropped. Cold, industrial look.
Cost: Approximately $8 – $15 per linear foot
Concrete molding is uncommon but makes a bold, modern statement. Downsides are the weight and potential to chip or crack if installing or cleaning.
Managing Moisture and Humidity
Bathrooms present some unique humidity challenges. Here are my top tips for preventing moisture damage to your crown molding:
-
Use humidity-resistant materials like polyurethane, PVC and treated wood. They‘ll hold up better than raw plaster or wood.
-
Seal any natural wood, plaster, or concrete with at least 2-3 coats of bathroom-grade polyurethane or varnish.
-
Caulk meticulously during install along every seam, edge, joint, corner etc. Leave no gaps.
-
Maintain good ventilation through bath fans, windows and AC to combat moisture buildup.
-
Promptly clean any splashes or leaks on the molding to prevent water damage.
-
Keep molding at least 6 inches from water sources like tubs and showers when possible.
-
Inspect regularly for any moisture issues like cracks, bulges or mold. Make repairs ASAP.
According to studies, maintaining humidity under 50% is ideal to prevent issues like mold or wood warping. So pay close attention to moisture levels, especially in humid climates.
Installation Tips for Bathroom Crown Molding
Installing crown molding properly will help it last and retain its beauty:
-
Ensure the mounting surface is smooth, clean and dry first. Fix any uneven spots.
-
Use strong construction adhesive AND nail into wall studs for the most secure hold.
-
Opt for discreet inside corner blocks rather than mitered joints that can separate.
-
Caulk the top edge and every seam after installing – don‘t skip this step!
-
Consider adding wood backing strips for extra stability, especially on moisture-prone walls.
-
Leave small gaps between molding pieces to account for any material expansion.
-
Take care not to dent delicate plaster or concrete moldings during the installation process.
I‘d also recommend hiring a professional installer if you‘re uneasy about doing crown molding yourself. Their experience with tricky angles and details can make a big difference in the final look.
Keeping Bathroom Crown Molding Looking Fresh
With proper care, your bathroom crown molding will maintain its beauty for years:
-
Dust molding regularly and clean gently with mild soap and water as needed. Avoid harsh cleaners.
-
Recaulk any failing old caulk that shows mold or mildew growth. Keep those seams sealed.
-
Watch for any sagging, cracks or bulges that indicate moisture is getting behind the molding.
-
Consider sealing the molding again every 2-3 years to refresh the water protection.
-
For painted molding, repaint whenever the color appears faded or discolored. Use bathroom paint.
-
Re-apply protective finish coats to wood molding periodically to maintain water resistance.
Take time to care for your crown molding and it will retain its gorgeous, polished look for the long haul.
What‘s the Cost for Crown Molding in a Bathroom?
What can you expect to pay to install crown molding in an average bathroom? Here are some typical costs:
- Materials – Anywhere from $2 to $25+ per linear foot, based on type of molding
- Installation – Approximately $3 to $8 per linear foot for labor
- Total cost – For a medium bathroom, between $1000 – $2500 on average
The specific size of your bathroom, complexity of the job, and molding choices will all impact the final price tag. Here are some of the main factors:
- Type of material – PVC is cheapest, then wood composites. Wood, plaster and concrete are most expensive.
- Elaborate styles – More intricate, ornate molding costs more in both material and labor.
- Amount of molding – Larger bathrooms require more linear feet of molding.
- Labor costs – Intricate installation drives up project costs.
- Specialty ceiling work – Tray and coffered ceilings require extra installation steps.
For a larger or more detailed project, you could end up paying $5000+ for the crown molding alone. Get multiple estimates to compare pricing.
Design Inspiration for Bathroom Crown Molding
When it comes to design, crown molding can complement any style of bathroom. Here are some great looks to inspire you:
For Traditional Bathrooms
- Carved or cut-out wood molding for an elegant feel
- Dark cherry or walnut stain to match wood vanities
- Crown molding atop cabinets for a custom furniture look
- Contrasting paint colors on walls vs. molding for pop
For Contemporary Bathrooms
- Slim, simple molding profiles (PVC is perfect for this)
- Glossy white or black molding against colorful walls
- Illuminated molding to emit a soft glow
- Mitered corners rather than corner blocks for a streamlined aesthetic
For Small Bathrooms
- Low-profile trim to avoid clutter
- Match wall color to “hide” molding
- Crown only at top of wall to draw eyes up
- Limit molding to one or two focal walls instead of entire room
For Spa-Like Bathrooms
- Rustic wood beams across the ceiling
- Spotlights aimed at the crown to create drama
- Natural stone and wood textures throughout
- Consider bringing molding down onto side walls for an enveloping effect
5 Gorgeous Bathrooms With Crown Molding
Need a little eye candy? Here are some stunning examples of crown molding in bathroom designs:
1. Classic Elegance
The intricate carved molding and wainscoting in this traditional bathroom are the definition of elegance. Dark wood stain ties it together beautifully.
2. Rustic Wood Beam
Rough-hewn wood beams take this bathroom to cozy new heights. Extra lighting highlights the details beautifully.
3. Coastal Bathroom
The simple white trim keeps this beachy bathroom looking breezy and bright. Love how it echoes the lines of the window.
4. Southwestern Style
The unique triangular ceiling molding and rustic wood touches reflect Southwestern design beautifully.
5. Modern Luxury
Sleek and minimalist, this molding adds just the right touch to this contemporary space. Gorgeous!
The Bottom Line
Crown molding can take your bathroom up a notch, whether you prefer modern or traditional style. With smart material selection and proper installation, it will withstand the moisture and look amazing.
Focus on choosing molding designs and proportions that enhance (rather than overwhelm) your bath‘s unique architecture. And don‘t be afraid to get creative with materials, finishes, lighting and details!
Crown molding offers so many options to reflect your personal taste and make a statement. Hopefully this guide gives you plenty of inspiration and confidence to add a little luxury to your bathroom. Let me know if you have any other questions!