PVC Trim Moulding
Price: Moderate to high
Durability: 25-30 Years
Maintenance: Low maintenance;
Application: Suitable for both interior and exterior use.
Installation: Lightweight and easy to install; can be cut, nailed, and screwed like wood.
MDF Moulding
Price: Low to moderate
Durability: Less durable than PVC and wood; can swell and deteriorate when exposed to moisture.
Maintenance: Requires painting to protect against moisture; not suitable for high-humidity areas.
Application: Best for interior use, especially in dry environments.
Installation: Easy to cut and shape; requires proper sealing and painting.
Wood Moulding
Price: Varies widely (can be low to very high depending on the type of wood)
Durability: Natural wood can be very durable, but it is susceptible to rot, insects, and moisture damage if not properly treated.
Maintenance: Requires regular maintenance, including painting or staining to protect against moisture and pests.
Application: Suitable for both interior and exterior use, though exterior applications require treated or rot-resistant wood.
Installation: Heavier than PVC and MDF; requires more effort to cut and install.
Price Comparison
PVC Trim Moulding: Typically more expensive than MDF but can be comparable to or less expensive than high-quality wood moulding.
MDF Moulding: Generally the most affordable option, but it lacks the durability and moisture resistance of PVC and wood.
Wood Moulding: Prices can vary greatly; softwoods like pine are cheaper, while hardwoods like oak and mahogany are more expensive.
Conclusion
PVC moulding offers a good balance of durability and ease of maintenance, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run, especially for areas exposed to moisture. MDF moulding is the budget-friendly option suitable for dry, interior environments, while wood moulding provides a natural aesthetic with variable pricing and higher maintenance requirements.
