Would You Rather? Metal Trim or Wood Trim
Considering adding a decorative trim or crown molding to your home’s exterior? Make sure you take the opportunity to explore your options when it comes to building materials. Traditionally, wood was considered the go-to option for building trims, but metal trim is trending – and with good reason! Let’s examine the benefits of metal trim compared with wood trim for your next building project.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Metal is one of the most durable and weather-resistant building materials available, making it the perfect option for exterior trims. Metal can withstand a range of extreme weather conditions, such as snowfall, harsh winds, rainfall, and fire, because it is non-combustible. Moreover, in the event of a fire, metal does not add additional fuel or smoke. Wood, on the other hand, can be severely damaged or outright destroyed by extreme weather. In addition to not being fireproof, wood can rot, warp, and decay over time.
Low Maintenance and Longevity
Metal does not require a high degree of maintenance and is incredibly long-lasting. Unlike wood, metal doesn’t need to be painted, sanded or stained. Additionally, specialty metals like copper, bronze and stainless steel age naturally while maintaining a beautiful aesthetic, and are resistant to corrosion as long as they have the proper coating. Depending on the type of material, metal trim and crown molding can last as long as 70 years – longer than most homeowners stay in their home! Conversely, wood requires a lot more upkeep, deteriorates faster, and can ultimately cause you a lot more headaches! Even with proper care, wood can easily chip, split or break. Wood is also susceptible to mold and insects, leading to expensive and frequent repairs.
Design Flexibility
From modern aesthetics to historically accurate looks, the design possibilities of metal trim and crown molding are endless. Whether you are seeking a simple, sophisticated design or looking to match an ornate historical aesthetic, metal is just as versatile as wood. There are a multitude of profiles, materials, colors and finishes available for you to find the best fit for your home or property.
Long-Term Cost-Effectiveness
When weighing your options for building trims, it’s important to consider more than the upfront costs and evaluate your long-term investment. Because of its low maintenance level, durability and longevity, metal can save you money in the long run. Metal trim can increase the resale value of your home when compared to wood. On the other hand, wood can become damaged or break down much more easily than metal without regular sanding, staining and painting. The upkeep and eventual replacement of wood trim over time will cost your wallet a lot more than metal.
Sustainability & Eco-Friendly
Metal is a highly sustainable and eco-friendly building material, particularly in comparison to wood. Metal is recyclable and reusable while still maintaining its quality. In fact, metal trims can be sourced from nearly 100% recycled steel. Additionally, metal contributes to a building’s overall energy efficiency because of its reflective nature and it takes less energy than ever to manufacture. Conversely, wood as a building material is very detrimental to the environment. Deforestation caused by overproduction of wood building products poses a huge environmental threat. For all these reasons, it’s no surprise that metal is a top choice for exterior trim and crown molding. Its durability, design versatility, low maintenance, and cost-effectiveness make metal both a practical and desirable option for your property’s trim needs.
Are you considering metal trim and crown molding for your next building project? Contact Helix Metalforming today for a free quote. We have over 50 years of experience creating metal trims, crown molding and custom metal finishes.
