We were recently asked to give a comparison of our paint grade, in-stock moulding profiles and how milling them from different subtrates (MDF, Pine, Poplar) will impact design detail, price and durability. Here are some things to consider for your project.

Best Paint Grade Material for Moulding is Primed Poplar

Primed Poplar- A hardwood which machines extremely well to create intricate moulding profiles. Fine, uniform grain allows for exceptional paint surface. The gold standard for paint-grade moulding. Typically priced on the higher end, but can be extremely competitive when milled in larger volumes. Finger-jointing also reduces cost as yield is maximized, defects removed, more stable than raw. Domestically produced in USA, allowing pricing  to remain more stable.

Better Paint Grade Moulding: Primed Pine

Primed Pine- Soft corners, dull shadow lines. Durable and useful in high traffic areas. Moulding patterns slightly more intricate than MDF. Properly finish/ paint to avoid bleed through over time. Priced between MDF and Poplar, although can fluctuate and pricing can be closer to MDF and poplar at times as it is an import and transportation/ freight costs can impact

Good Paint Grade Moulding: Primed MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)

MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)- Soft corners, dull shadow lines. Budget friendly option, although at times can increase in cost as it is an import and transportation/ freight costs can increase to be closer to pine, even poplar in some situations. Simple moulding patterns and designs which are typically thinner than wood. Stable, doesn’t expand and contract as much as wood. Engineered wood product prone to swelling when exposed to moisture, not easily repaired.

In Summary…

While MDF is widely used due to cost advantages and ease of painting, its lacks the durability and moisture resistance of poplar. Pine is versatile, but doesn’t match poplar’s premium finish and workability.

So there you have it. Those are some things to consider when making moulding profile selections for your project. Determine what is most important for you and choose from any of our poplar, pine or MDF in-stock moulding options. And if you have any questions, please always consider reaching out and speaking to one of our building material specialists. We are here to help you!

About Kuiken Brothers Classical Moulding

Kuiken Brothers’ Classical Moulding Collection is one of the largest in-stock collections of classic American moulding profiles in the United States. Featuring over ninety historically-inspired moulding profiles, The KB Classical Moulding Collection represents classic American moulding profiles milled and installed in Georgian, Federal, Greek Revival, Colonial Revival, Craftsman and Shaker style homes, many from over 200 years ago. Readily available, these profiles are not only designed to simplify installation, but provide a truly custom look, unachievable for most until now.  The collection includes a range of crown, casing, base, chair-rail and panel moulding. We ship these moulding profiles anywhere within the United States. For more information, visit www.kuikenbrothers.com/classical