Be aware of the following sources of crown molding damage.
Crown moldings create beautiful finishing touches for your interior design. Crown molding can add visual flair, seal gaps, and conceal imperfections. However, just like any other part of your home, these excellent features can break down over time, especially if installed improperly or poorly maintained. To prevent damage, working with installation experts you trust at Fisher Lumber is essential. Then, be aware of the following sources of crown molding damage so you know how to care for your new crown molding.
Pressure
Every part of your home is connected. When the roof is covered in snow, or the ground shifts, these effects are distributed throughout the entire structure. You may not be able to see these changes, but they are nevertheless occurring. As support beams contract and the walls, ceilings, or floors shift around over time your crown molding may buckle and reveal cracks or dislodging from the wall. The best carpenters account for these potential shifts by leaving enough room and leeway between moldings and the surfaces.
Moisture
Water can wreak havoc on your home in numerous ways. However, by adequately painting or sealing your crown moldings, you can prevent moisture from invading the moldings. However, in particular scenarios, water may still find its way into the wood’s pores. Broken, leaking pipes may lead to damage. Also, rainwater can move through the windows, doors, or walls if your home isn’t well-sealed. The steam in bathrooms and kitchens can also damage the nearby crown molding.
Properly sealing and ventilating your home and maintaining your pipes can reduce the risk of possible water damage.
Heat and Cold
Fluctuations in temperature may impact your crown molding. Hotter temperatures can cause structures to expand, while colder temperatures lead to contraction. If temperature changes occur in quick succession, structures can crack or break. Gradual temperature changes may also dislodge or fracture parts of the molding. Maintaining a consistent interior climate can keep crown moldings in sound condition.
Impacts
Of course, you can easily damage crown moldings through direct impacts. Heavy objects can get dropped on molding, or slammed doors or windows can send ripples upward that crack crown molding. To avoid this type of damage, be thoughtful about how you treat your home.
Pests
Finally, a pest infestation can eat up your crown molding. Termites, specifically, are something to look out for. If your crown moldings are composed of wood, termites will target them. However, termites and other pests cannot easily enter your home if it is well-sealed. Make caulking a priority and hire professionals you trust from Fisher Lumber to protect your wooden surfaces.
Install Crown Molding from Fisher Lumber
Be sure to visit Fisher Lumber’s Designer Showroom featuring displays of Andersen Windows, Therma-Tru entry doors, Simpson and Masonite exterior doors, and a wide selection of interior doors featuring Simpson, Masonite, Lemieux, and JELD-WEN. Our knowledgeable experts are ready to assist you! Contact us at 301-424-6500 and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.