Since 2001, we have helped a lot of homeowners with their exterior moulding design. From bay windows to whole exteriors, our expertise is frequently called upon by customers all around the world. We have seen many variations of our mouldings mixed and matched, but one question that we always get is "Where do I start?"
And here is what we say.
Is your home a bungelow? One storey? Two or more?
Creating curb appeal is about achieving balance with the different elements of your home. Our mouldings come in a variety of sizes, from 3" to 24" and selecting the right size is one of the most important decisions you can make.
We like to guide decisions by way of proportions. Proper exterior moulding proportions are key. If you have a bungelow, it would be foolish to put a 14" crown because it would be far too large and stand out for the wrong reasons. And we would never advise using a 5" crown on a multiple storey home because it would barely be noticable from the ground. That translates into lost curb appeal, but more importantly, squandered money on a failed design.
Here is a general guide on selecting the right sizes for your home.
Bungelows
Window Trim: 3-5"
Window Sill: Within 1" of the window trim
Door Trim: 6"
Band: 8-10"
Crown: 8-10"
One Storey
Window Trim: 6"
Window Sill: Within 1" of the window trim
Door Trim: 8"
Band: 10-12"
Crown: 10-12"
Two+ Storeys
Window Trim: 8"
Window Trim: Within 1" of the window trim
Door Trim: 10"
Band: 12"+
Crown: 12"+
Will the mouldings fit?
As obvious as this one may be, sometimes the design and placement of certain elements will only allow a particular size of moulding.
Can you a place a 14" wall band across your home or will it be interfered with by a window? Will a 9" wall band work instead? Know your maximum height when choosing each moulding but also know that there are plenty of alternatives as well like modifying the profile you want in the size that you need.
Do you prefer a rounded trim profile like MX114? Or square like MX117?
It's a personal preference and everyone is different but selecting round or square details will determine the tone of your home. Homes with rounded architectural features tend to be softer and warmer. On the other hand, homes with squared edges are thought to have a more serious tone.
Note: It's a good idea to start by choosing a profile for your windows and then working your way toward the other elements. More than likely, your windows occupy a lot of real estate so focusing first on them will benefit the overall design of your home. Which brings us to our next point.
Do you like features that compliment each other? Or do you prefer contrasting elements?
If you selected a rounded window trim, do you want a rounded window sill to accent it? Most would say yes. And it's hard to disagree. Consistency creates flow. Flow creates elegance. Everything just seems to fit exactly how it should.
But what if you wanted something bold, different from the norm? Mix it up by combining a rounded trim and squared sill. Or vice versa. And don't just stop there. Try using rounded window trims and sills with a squared band.
If you're still unsure, let us help you. We have designed many homes and still continue to do so. We can certainly help point you in the right direction. We can also render your home in 3D before you make any decisions, FREE of charge.
And here is what we say.
Is your home a bungelow? One storey? Two or more?
Creating curb appeal is about achieving balance with the different elements of your home. Our mouldings come in a variety of sizes, from 3" to 24" and selecting the right size is one of the most important decisions you can make.
We like to guide decisions by way of proportions. Proper exterior moulding proportions are key. If you have a bungelow, it would be foolish to put a 14" crown because it would be far too large and stand out for the wrong reasons. And we would never advise using a 5" crown on a multiple storey home because it would barely be noticable from the ground. That translates into lost curb appeal, but more importantly, squandered money on a failed design.
Here is a general guide on selecting the right sizes for your home.
 |
| Mouldings that are too small for your home will have a negative impact on your design. As well, mouldings that are too large will also have the same effect. |
Window Trim: 3-5"
Window Sill: Within 1" of the window trim
Door Trim: 6"
Band: 8-10"
Crown: 8-10"
One Storey
Window Trim: 6"
Window Sill: Within 1" of the window trim
Door Trim: 8"
Band: 10-12"
Crown: 10-12"
Two+ Storeys
Window Trim: 8"
Window Trim: Within 1" of the window trim
Door Trim: 10"
Band: 12"+
Crown: 12"+
Will the mouldings fit?
As obvious as this one may be, sometimes the design and placement of certain elements will only allow a particular size of moulding.
Can you a place a 14" wall band across your home or will it be interfered with by a window? Will a 9" wall band work instead? Know your maximum height when choosing each moulding but also know that there are plenty of alternatives as well like modifying the profile you want in the size that you need.
Do you prefer a rounded trim profile like MX114? Or square like MX117?
It's a personal preference and everyone is different but selecting round or square details will determine the tone of your home. Homes with rounded architectural features tend to be softer and warmer. On the other hand, homes with squared edges are thought to have a more serious tone.
Note: It's a good idea to start by choosing a profile for your windows and then working your way toward the other elements. More than likely, your windows occupy a lot of real estate so focusing first on them will benefit the overall design of your home. Which brings us to our next point.
Do you like features that compliment each other? Or do you prefer contrasting elements?
If you selected a rounded window trim, do you want a rounded window sill to accent it? Most would say yes. And it's hard to disagree. Consistency creates flow. Flow creates elegance. Everything just seems to fit exactly how it should.
But what if you wanted something bold, different from the norm? Mix it up by combining a rounded trim and squared sill. Or vice versa. And don't just stop there. Try using rounded window trims and sills with a squared band.
If you're still unsure, let us help you. We have designed many homes and still continue to do so. We can certainly help point you in the right direction. We can also render your home in 3D before you make any decisions, FREE of charge.
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