Kate Wilson is a writer and fact checker for home decor and furnishings at Chosen Furniture. She enjoys splitting her findings with others.
What Is a Chair Rail?
Chair rail, a horizontal molding at 30 to 36 inches high, protects walls from chair damage and adds a decorative element. It also serves as a barrier against wear and tear from furniture movement.
Different Types of Chair Rails
Traditional: This classic style is made of wood and is often 3-4 inches wide. It has a simple profile that adds elegance.
Beaded: More decorative styles feature trim and half-round moldings for a beaded effect. This style works well in traditional décor.
Vinyl: Vinyl is a practical option, as it’s affordable, durable, and easy to install. It comes in various colors and prints.
With picture frame molding: Some chair rails integrate more comprehensive picture frame-style molding above and below for a visually striking look.
Painted: Painting a chair rail is popular, as it allows matching or contrasting wall colors. Paint also protects and seals the wood.
Why is Chair-Rail Important?
Protects walls: The primary purpose of a chair rail is to protect walls from scuffs and marks caused by chairs, furniture, and daily wear and tear. This helps preserve the look of the walls.
Visually expands space: Chair-rail molding can give the illusion of higher walls, making rooms feel bigger. It creates a visual break halfway up the wall.
Decorative element: A chair rail can easily add decorative flair to a room. It allows play with color through painting or integrating wider decorative molding.
Affordable update: Installing a chair rail can upgrade the look of a room without a major renovation. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to give a space a fresh feel.
Versatile for design styles: From traditional to modern spaces, chair-rail molding fits right in. It works with color schemes and can be simple or ornate.
Advantages of a Chair Rail
- Protects walls from damage caused by furniture legs.
- Adds visual interest to a room.
- It can help to define a space or create a more cohesive look.
- It can hide imperfections in the wall surface.
- It can be painted or stained to match the décor of the room.
Disadvantages of a Chair Rail
- It can be not easy to install correctly.
- It can make a room feel smaller.
- It can be a tripping hazard.
- It can be expensive.
- It may not be suitable for all styles of décor.
What Type of Molding is Best for a Kitchen?
Vinyl chair-rail is often the best choice in kitchens because it is water-resistant and stands up well to moisture, splatters, and cleaning. Vinyl resists swelling and warping from steam, condensation, and leaks. It is also easy to wipe clean. Finally, vinyl comes in endless colors and faux finishes like stone, marble, or wood to fit any kitchen décor.
Should You Always Paint It In a Different Color than the Walls?
Not always, but it is expected to paint a chair rail a contrasting color to the walls. This helps the molding pop and stand out while adding visual interest. However, painting it the same color as the walls allows it to blend seamlessly for some unified looks. The choice depends on personal preference and the desired look for the space. To subtly define it, paint sheens can also differ between walls and chair rails.
Can You Install It Horizontally or in Other Areas Besides Mid-Wall?
Yes, absolutely. While traditionally installed vertically at a standard height, chair rails can go up horizontally, around ceilings, or even in non-traditional spaces like staircases. Contemporary designs allow for creative applications of chair rails to make them function decoratively rather than just protectively. The standard height helps prevent chair damage but isn’t mandatory.
Does Molding Need To be Made of Wood?
No, it doesn’t have to be wood. While wood chair rail is classic, many materials work well. Popular options include vinyl, PVC, polystyrene foam, polyurethane, and medium-density fiberboard (MDF). Manufacturers form these materials into easy-to-install chair rail. Sturdy materials like MDF or polyurethane provide a realistic wood look at a lower cost.
What Tools Do You Need to Install the Chair Rail?
A few standard tools are needed. Pencil, stud finder, level, tape measure, miter saw, nail gun, drill, hammer, primer, and caulk. Use the stud finder and mark the rail location with a pencil. Measure and cut rails to length with a miter saw. Pre-drill molding if needed. A nail gun allows efficient installation into studs. Fill gaps with caulk. Sand any rough spots: prime and paint.
More Reads
- Wikipedia Guide
- What is a Chair Rail Molding and Why To Add It To Your Home
- The Misused & Confused Chair Rail
- Wainscoting vs. Chair Rail Moulding: What’s The Difference?
Kate Wilson is a writer and editor at Chosen Furniture. She has deeply loved home decor and furniture for as long as she can remember (and a newfound love for cappuccino) and enjoys sharing her finds with others. When not working, she loves listening to music, hanging out with his family, and exercising her creative side through oil painting.
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