What Is the Function of a Metal Cornice?
In architecture, a metal cornice can be used to provide protection to the wall face or add decoration or ornament as a finish to eaves. Traditionally, a metal cornice would be added to help direct rainwater away from the side of a building or used indoors to hide the joint between the ceiling and wall, which is then commonly referred to as Metal Crown Molding. The modern cornice is more often a decorative element than a practical one, giving a more luxurious feel to an interior space or exterior facade.
Where Can You Use a Metal Cornice?
You can place a metal cornice above a fireplace, a doorway, or your windows. Adding metal cornice designs to the home lets you add color, style, texture, and depth to any room, making the space more visually stimulating. If you wish to create a canopy, you can use metal crown molding pieces on the ceiling. A metal window cornice allows you to attach curtains by rods with rings or hooks and is typically made from traditional wood, but metal cornices add more detail and design.
A cornice can also be fabricated with a built-in gutter and installed on a building's exterior. A protruding metal cornice on a building that's made in this way may be decorative but can also serve a more functional purpose.
Choose the Right Material
The best material for cornices really depends on what will look good and function well where you're installing it.
Aluminum
Aluminum is lightweight and a cost-effective alternative to other materials. Aluminum is also water-resistant and can stand up to a number of environmental factors, including salt and chemicals. It is also a versatile material that remains flexible and can be manufactured into different shapes and fabricated to suit your precise needs.
Copper
Copper is a classic material for architectural moldings. It adds a bit of luxury to any space in the home or even a commercial property. Copper is a lightweight material and easy to work with. It is highly durable and resistant to wear and tear. Copper moldings are typically orange in color when installed but mature to a green color over the years. This creates more of a style effect and nicely complements a brick building or stone decorative elements.
Tin Plated Steel
A tin-plated steel cornice or tin crown molding has a beautiful metallic luster and is corrosion-resistant. It can be soldered and welded easily and it is also a very cost-effective material to use and is readily available to use for a cornice. Trim made of tin-plated steel is much less expensive than other metal materials while still offering maximum protection and durability.
Also consider our faux tin cornice range.
Metal Crown Molding & Cornice Installation
To install a metal cornice, nail the cornice into the furring strips you have. The cornice should be nailed every 6 inches into the ceiling and into the studs at the bottom. To join a cornice at the corner, miter both pieces. You can caulk the edges of your cornice, seams, and miters.
If you paint your metal cornice, it should be painted with oil-based paint. If you have an unfinished steel cornice, it does not have any protection against humidity; if using tin-plated steel, you can use a clear gloss enamel to maintain its silvery tin color.
Are you ready to choose the right metal crown molding or cornice design for your home or commercial space? At Decorative Ceiling Tiles, we have a large selection of metal cornice options in a variety of materials and styles for you to choose from. Order yours today!