If you are looking for ways to improve the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen, then the best way to achieve this is by installing kitchen cabinets crown molding.
Most people like the bare look, i.e., the edges of the wall cabinets, but many like to install a crown molding to enhance the look of their cabinets.
It depends on a person’s perspective, how would they like to change the look of their cabinetry.
So, the question is…
Table of Contents
Do Kitchen Cabinets Need Crown Molding?
Crown molding enhances the look of your cabinetry by adding some decorative pieces of wood on the top of the wall cabinets.
If you want your cabinetry to look more appealing rather than bland look, then yes, kitchen cabinets need crown molding. You can do it by yourself by adding some decorative wooden or MDF pieces on the top of the wall cabinets. You can glue them down to fix or simply nail them to fix them perfectly to the cabinets.
How To Install Crown Molding On Cabinets? (DIY)
You can install the crown molding on your cabinets by yourself, or you can hire a contractor to do that. It depends on your budget; how professionally you want to finish the work.
The basic process is to first fix the poplar board on the top of the cabinets, adjust the size, and attach the Bed Molding.
It will be a lot cheaper if you do it by yourself. It will require some materials and tools to do that.
Materials & Tools Required
- Bed Molding (1-5/8-in)
- Poplar Board (3/4-in x 1-1/2-in x 8-ft)
- Nail Hole Filler (DAP DryDex filler)
- Wood Glue
- Sandpaper (220-320 grit) or Sanding Sponge (320 grit)
- Miter Saw
- 18-Gauge Finish Nailer
The sizes for bed molding and poplar board are not fixed. These are average sizes used for crown molding. You can take the sizes based on your requirements.
Process
Step 1: Fixing the Poplar Board
First, fix the solid wood mounting strips (poplar board) on the top of the wall cabinets to provide a nailing surface for the crown molding.
To do that, measure the front and sides of the cabinets and then cut the wood strips according to the required sizes.
After that, apply glue to each poplar and nailed them to fix in their place, and let them dry.
Step 2: Fixing the Bed Molding
This step is crucial as you have to adjust the crown molding corners to look appealing.
First, measure the front side of the cabinet and then cut the bed molding 3 inches oversize because you have to adjust the corners and have cut them at a 45-degree angle.
Similarly, measure the sides and cut the pieces by leaving 2 inches oversize. This will help you to match the corners perfectly. (Bring 2-3 pieces extra because you can make mistakes here).
Now, glue the pieces and carefully fix them to the wood strip. Align the edges and bottom properly, and finally, fix them by nailing.
Step 3: Finishing the Bed Molding Installation
Apply the nail hole filler to fill the nail holes and any gaps at the corners, and finally, smooth the surface with the 320-grit sanding sponge. After that, apply two coats of primer and paint them to match the cabinet’s finish.
With these three steps, you can install crown molding on your cabinets. You can refer to this video for reference.
Final Thoughts
If you want to make your kitchen look appealing, then yes, kitchen cabinets need crown molding.
They are cheap to install if you do it yourself. You can buy the items from your nearest hardware store or Homedepot or Lowe’s.
Mostly 2-3 inches height of crown molding is installed on the top of the wall cabinets. This size depends on your cabinet’s size. Some people install crown molding of sizes 4-5 inches.
If you have any questions, you can ask me in the comment section. I have listed some faq’s that might help you.
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FAQ’s
Do Modern Kitchens Have Crown Molding?
If you are installing contemporary kitchen cabinets, then no need to install crown molding. They favor a simple look, and you will not notice any decorative trim or faux finishes.
Instead of any decorative pieces, the contemporary cabinets have flat surfaces with sleek and simple hardware. So, not all modern kitchen cabinets have crown molding.
What Type Of Molding Is Best For The Top Of Cabinets?
Crown molding is best for the top of the cabinets. In crown molding, there are various options like traditional, stepped, stacked, light, shoe molding, etc.
How Do You Fill The Gap Between Kitchen Cabinets And Ceiling?
The best way to fill the gap between the kitchen cabinets and the ceiling is to install crown molding. They will look appealing as well as fill the unnecessary gaps.
Is Crown Molding Worth It?
Yes, crown molding is worth it. It is a decorative trim or piece of wood that is added to the top of your cabinets. It will draw your guest’s eyes upward when they visit your kitchen by showcasing its elegant beauty.
You can either fill the gaps between the cabinets and the ceiling or leave the space between them. Both the ways are fine and look great.
Is Crown Molding Going Out Of Style?
No, crown molding can’t go out of style. It will be present for many years. The fact is that some people like the basic and simple look and some like decoration.
That’s why contemporary kitchen cabinets offer a simple and sharp look while other cabinets still need crown molding.
![3 Effective Ways To Update Old Kitchen Cabinets [Under $100]](https://www.kitchensity.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/How-To-Update-Old-Kitche-Cabinets-211x150.jpg "3 Effective Ways To Update Old Kitchen Cabinets [Under $100]")
