Question 1

What is the best wood for interior trim?

Accepted Answer

Poplar is the most popular paint-grade trim wood — affordable, smooth, and easy to work. For stain-grade trim, White Oak and Maple are top choices. For exterior trim, Cedar and Mahogany offer the best rot resistance and dimensional stability.

Question 2

Should I use hardwood or softwood trim?

Accepted Answer

Hardwood trim (Oak, Maple, Poplar) is better for stain-grade finishes and high-traffic areas due to its hardness and smooth grain. Softwood trim (Pine, Cedar) is more affordable and easier to cut but dents more easily. For painted trim, Poplar (a hardwood) offers the best of both worlds.

Question 3

How much does wood trim cost per linear foot?

Accepted Answer

Pine baseboards cost $1-3 per linear foot, Poplar $2-4/ft, Oak $3-7/ft, and Mahogany $5-12/ft. Crown molding costs more due to profile complexity: $2-5/ft for Pine, $4-8/ft for Oak. Custom-milled profiles add a 30-50% premium over stock profiles.

Question 4

Can I use MDF trim instead of real wood?

Accepted Answer

MDF trim works well for painted interior applications — it's smooth, affordable, and won't warp. However, MDF swells when wet (not for bathrooms or exteriors), can't be stained, and doesn't hold nails as well as wood. Real wood is required for exterior trim, stain-grade finishes, and moisture-prone areas.

Trim & Molding (2026)

Browse Trim by Wood Species

Oak Trim & Molding

Poplar Trim & Molding

Pine Trim & Molding

Cedar Trim & Molding

Maple Trim & Molding

Mahogany Trim & Molding

Browse by Profile Type

Baseboards

Crown Molding

Casing & Door Trim

Custom Profiles

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Categories

Flooring

Hardwood

Siding

Need Custom Trim Profiles?

Ready to Start Your Project?