Money-Saving Molding Tips

The Hardwood Council offers four techniques that can help builders and architects make budget without sacrificing style.

Stack: Stock molding profiles can be combined to create anything from simple chair rails to elaborate crown moldings with a custom look.

Stain: A lighter-colored, close-grain hardwood such as poplar or basswood can be stained to resemble darker, more expensive species. This works especially well in applications above eye level.

Paint: For woodwork that will be painted, a lower grade of lumber can be used. FAS, or firsts and seconds, are the more desired grades; they indicate that the boards are long, wide and defect-free. Intermediate or common grades might show knots or other "imperfections" and are less expensive. For a rustic look or to add character, some clients might prefer to stain and show off these grades.

Specify indigenous species: Hardwood species that grow in the area where they are to be used might be less expensive because of their relative abundance. For details on species and their origins, hardness, uses, stains and availability, visit the Hardwood Information Center at www.hardwoodinfo.org.