Wichita Trim Repair: How to Fix Damaged Trim and Moldings

Originally, trim and molding were used for a practical reason during a home's construction. While now this stretch of material has become a sign of elegance and provides an elevated aesthetic, initially it was used to cover the gaps where different materials came together. Notably, the space between a wall and the ceiling. Wichita trim repair is essential for ensuring that those features continue to look elegant and serve their purpose.

While these days molding still makes the space between the ceiling and wall, or floor and wall, look tidy and aesthetically pleasing, it actually does much more to boost a room's appearance. Crown molding in particular can draw the eye upward, make a space feel larger and make your home look even more elegant.

However, if parts of your property in desperate need of trim repair, then those features won't add anything to your room—but rather take away from it entirely. Instead of elegant and tidy, your space will look dilapidated and unkempt. To maintain your home's appearance, and the structural integrity of your molding, it's integral to stay on-top of Wichita trim repairs.

When it comes to keeping your property in excellent condition, put your trust in our expert Wichita handyman team. We offer a wide range of services for both molding and exterior trim repair in Wichita. A trim carpenter from our team will provide outstanding workmanship and excellent customer service.

What is the Difference Between Trim and Molding?

These two terms are often used interchangeably, and most contractors and handymen in Wichita will know what you're referring to. However, there is a slight difference. Trim is a general term that refers to all molding in a home. This can include:

• Crown molding

• Baseboards

• Wainscoting

• Chair rails

• Door trim

• Window trim

Meanwhile, molding tends to historically refer to a broad classification of millwork—any type of wood product that is made in a mill. These days, those features are made of a variety of materials—as you'll see below. It's also worth noting that crown molding tends to specifically refer to trim that is placed right below the ceiling.

What Materials Are Used for Trim Repair in Wichita?

Historically, trim was made out of solid wood or plaster. However, now it's made out of a variety of materials. Before you dive into what you need to know about DIY Wichita trim repair, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of the different kinds of molding. That way, you'll have a sense of the pros and cons of each material.

Plaster

You may have plaster trim if you live in an older home. It's usually used for crown molding. This is because it can be used to create large, elaborate designs on high ceilings, such as two-story entryways or homes with ceilings that are higher than the standard. Plaster is a beautiful material that does bring one back to the golden age of grand architecture. For this reason, it usually comes at a higher price point than other materials. Plaster also requires professional service for installation and repairs.

Solid Wood

The industry standard for trim, this is what many people think of when it comes to Wichita trim repair. Usually, wood baseboards and the like will be made from paint-grade pine or a variety of hardwoods such as ash, oak and walnut.

Since solid wood is a more traditional material, it can also be a greater financial investment, depending on the variety that is used. It is quite easy to repair in the event it's chipped or otherwise damaged. However, a significant drawback of this material is that it can be prone to wood rot, which may require full replacement rather than repairs.

Engineered Wood

A more cost-effective option when compared to solid wood, engineered hardwood is made out of layers of hardwood and plywood. This is different to solid wood, which is simply a piece of hardwood. Engineered wood acts and looks like natural wood. It can even be painted and stained as an easy repair.

Another benefit of engineered wood is that it is treated to protect against termites and rot, which means you won’t have to worry as much about major repairs or replacement if you have it installed. Engineered wood is coated with a moisture resistant overlay that protects against moisture while also giving it an authentic wood aesthetic. This gives it an edge in humid climates, such as in Wichita.

PVC

A type of plastic, PVC holds up well against sunlight and maintains its paint job very well, making it an ideal material for outdoor trim. In fact, it's more common to find PVC outside the home, like on roof trim, rather than in it. PVC is a great alternative to wood for areas that get a lot of water and/or humidity. Additionally, PVC lasts a very long time.

MDF

Medium-density fiberboard is inexpensive, making it quite common throughout the United States. However, a drawback of MDF is that it doesn't hold up well in humid places like Wichita. MDF tends to soak up water like a sponge. This makes it expand, and any paint on it begins to peel. For this reason, MDF works better for crown molding than it does for window trim or for baseboard trim—or along any other area that may be regularly exposed to moisture.

Polyurethane

Lighter than wood, polyurethane cuts like wood and can easily be painted. It’s a trim option that won’t see much deterioration over time, and is available in a variety of styles and colors, making it a great option for homes in all climates.

Vinyl

One of the best benefits of vinyl is that it's very sturdy and strong. This means it won't warp or rot like solid wood. This makes vinyl an excellent option as a baseboard to frame windows and doors. It is also a good option for humid areas within your home, such as the bathroom. Vinyl is also very strong and durable, and modern designs have a very sleek finish. Not to mention, vinyl is very easy to clean—which is always a bonus.

Polystyrene

Polystyrene is made out of a rigid foam material that is both inexpensive and easy to work with. However, because it is a type of foam, polystyrene dents easily. Thus, it's best used in hard-to-reach areas, such as for crown molding. While close-up its texture looks like Styrofoam, a few coats of paint can help transform the material.

Metal

There are many benefits to metal crown molding and trim. Metal is fire-resistant, strong, durable and will last a very long time. For many Wichita homeowners, this makes it a sustainable and desirable option. Also, metal has quite a distinct and elegant aesthetic.

Common DIY Trim Repairs in Wichita

No matter what material is in your home, it will need trim repairs from time to time. Window trim might sustain water damage, and baseboards could be easily scratched and dented. Also, it's common from crown molding to have gaps in it after installation. The good news is most Wichita trim repairs are fairly quick and easy to complete. Whether you’ve noticed a few gaps in your crown molding or dents along your baseboards, your repairs won’t take much time to complete—especially if you rely on an expert handyman.

That said, if you have damage that requires more than just repairs, say from a flood or fire, then you'll definitely need a professional service to replace it. In that case, look no further than our expert technicians at Mr. Handyman of the Wichita Metro Area. Our team possesses years of trades experience, and can complete all Wichita trim repairs and replacement efficiently and correctly.

Read on to learn more about our professional tips and tricks for some common crown molding and trim repairs in Wichita.

Refinishing

If you have solid wood baseboards or crown molding that's started looking a little tired over the years, you can refinish it to repair scratches and shallow dents. Simply sand it down to remove the current stain and to smooth out any shallow damage. Sanding is important because it will also enable your fresh stain to soak into the wood properly. Once sanded, give the area you're staining a clean and allow it to dry fully. Then, apply the stain using a cloth. Rub it into the wood's grooves and wipe away any excess. Allow the stain to set overnight. Then, apply one to two coats of varnish to give it a professional finish.

Painting

While staining is an effective Wichita trim repair, paint can be useful for hiding bigger or more noticeable damage, such as small gaps. Paint can also be used on a wider range of materials, whereas stain is limited to wood and engineered wood. Trim painting can also be a refreshing way to change the look of your space, without having to re-do your walls or ceiling. For these kinds of projects, it’s common to paint with a glossy or semi-gloss finish. However, an eggshell or flat finish may hide more imperfections.

Drywall Mud or Wood Putty

One of the easiest ways to fix common eyesores like nail holes, dents and gaps is by applying drywall mud or wood putty to those damaged areas. This will smooth out damaged texture and hide a multitude of sins.

If your trim is stained, you should use a putty (apply with a putty knife) that closely matches its color. If you’re working with a painted surface, drywall mud is a better option, as it can be easily painted over for a seamless finish. Both will need to dry for 24 hours to properly hold their shape.

Caulk

As we've mentioned earlier, installing crown molding can often leave gaps between the wall and the ceiling—especially if homeowners try to install it themselves. One DIY solution to fix these gaps is to use a latex caulk to fill the gaps. Latex caulk is easier to work with than other varieties, like silicone. Simply use the caulk gun to spread a bead of caulk along the gap. Then, smooth out the caulk by using your finger. Let it dry overnight. Once dry, you can paint over the caulk if needed.

Replace a Damaged Section

If your molding has rotted, sustained water damage, is cracked, or its dents and flaws are too numerous to be worthwhile to repair, then it's more worthwhile to replace the damaged section entirely. Simply visit your local hardware store and find molding that matches what you have in your home. Measure the area you are going to replace and use a miter saw to cut the new piece to the right size. Then, replace the damaged area with the new section.

Why Choose Mr. Handyman for Wichita Trim Repair Service?

Maybe reading this blog has inspired you to tackle basic trim repairs on your own. However, at Mr. Handyman of the Wichita Metro Area, we understand that not everyone enjoys DIY home repairs. That's why our expert Wichita handymen are always happy to help.

Our qualified technicians are highly experienced and trained. Our Wichita trim repair services are unparalleled. And, we always focus on providing the utmost customer service to all our valued clients. From arriving on-time for your scheduled appointment to keeping our work area tidy and leaving your home as clean as we found it, we truly care about creating a positive experience with our company from start to finish. We've helped numerous homeowners throughout the Wichita Metro Area, including in Bel Aire and Park City.

When you hire the team at Mr. Handyman of the Wichita Metro Area, you can rest assured that your Wichita trim repair is in good hands. We’ll carefully and efficiently make the necessary repairs and/or replacements so that your molding looks good-as-new.

Book a Wichita Trim Repair Service Today!

Do you have a damaged baseboard that needs replacing? Or perhaps you want to install crown molding to give your home a little extra elegance? If so, then we invite you to call our courteous and professional staff to get started today. We look forward to meeting you and helping you with your Wichita trim repair or installation needs.