Kitchen molding, often referred to as cabinet molding, is fundamentally a decorative piece of wood that gives cabinets a more custom finished appearance. Similar to the molding you find where the wall meets the floor or ceiling, this trim is specifically designed for cabinetry.
Understanding Kitchen Molding
Think of kitchen molding as the finishing touch for your cabinet installation. Its primary role is aesthetic, elevating standard cabinets to look more integrated and bespoke. While often made of wood, it can also come in other materials designed to match or complement cabinetry.
Its application isn't just about looks; molding also serves a practical purpose by concealing inconsistencies and gaps that may exist after cabinets are installed, providing a clean, seamless look.
Where is Kitchen Molding Applied?
Based on its function of providing a finished appearance and covering gaps, cabinet molding can be strategically applied in several key areas:
- Top of Cabinets: Crown molding is a popular type applied here, extending the cabinet line upward towards the ceiling or soffit, creating an elegant, built-in effect.
- Bottom of Cabinets: Light rail molding can be added to the underside of upper cabinets to hide under-cabinet lighting fixtures and provide a finished edge.
- Gaps Between Cabinets and the Wall: Scribe molding or filler strips can be used to bridge small, irregular gaps between the side of a cabinet and an adjacent wall, ensuring a tight, professional fit.
Benefits of Using Kitchen Molding
Incorporating molding into your kitchen design offers several advantages:
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Instantly upgrades the visual appeal of standard cabinets, making them look higher-end and more customized.
- Provides a Finished Look: Creates clean lines and edges, concealing unfinished tops, bottoms, or sides of cabinets.
- Conceals Imperfections: Effectively hides small gaps, uneven walls, or installation inconsistencies.
- Adds Architectural Detail: Introduces depth and character to the kitchen space.
By adding kitchen molding, you transform basic cabinet boxes into integrated components of your kitchen's overall design, contributing significantly to the room's polished appearance.
