The Resourceful Way Chip And Joanna Gaines Save Money While Elevating An Interior Space

If there's one thing Chip and Joanna Gaines know how to do, it's to work within a given budget. The couple, who are hosts of HGTV's long-running "Fixer Upper" franchise, are always able to complete a project within the tightest of budgets that will still look super polished and high-end. But one clever design hack by Chip may surprise you. Instead of pricey hardwood trim, he'll often opt to use faux crown molding – even styrofoam!

No, it's not the same styrofoam found in flimsy takeout containers. In interior design, styrofoam molding is a type of lightweight polystyrene covered in plaster. Not only is foam molding an economical choice, but it's durable, it's easy to work with, it can be installed quickly, and once coated in plaster and paint, it's hard to tell the difference from traditional wood molding.

If you're skeptical, you're not alone. In the second episode of "Fixer Upper: The Castle," Chip asks Joanna about the foam crown molding, and she says, "I saw a piece of it in the kitchen and thought it was, like, a temporary ... this whole time though when you kept saying 'plaster molding,' it never once dawned on me it starts as styrofoam." Then, Chip proceeds to show her an area with installed foam molding and Joanna's skepticism turns to amazement. "Holy cow. Unbelievable," she responds. And she's genuinely impressed. 

When you want to create a space that feels high-end on a budget, it all comes down to making smart material choices. While adding crown molding detail can instantly make a space feel larger, using a wood trim can quickly eat up a remodeling budget. With renovations, there are so many surprise expenses that add up, so for details like molding, you may want to consider a thrifty swap.

That's where alternatives like styrofoam molding can really shine. It's lightweight, which makes installation a lot easier and saves you a bit in installation costs. On top of that, it's resistant to moisture and rot, and it will keep wood-loving termites at bay, making it a dependable choice that will hold up well over time. Plus, there's always a concern that wood molding will shrink, change shape, and even split due to changes in humidity, but foam will maintain its shape regardless of moisture or temperature — as long as it's not burning hot.

Chip and Joanna Gaines have made some controversial design choices in the past. However, Chip's foam molding hack is simply genius. It's things like this that allow the Magnolia magnates to redirect their budget towards impactful design elements, such as high-quality cabinetry or statement lighting. 

It probably never crossed your mind as an option, but styrofoam molding can be a smart, budget-friendly alternative. However, it may not be appropriate for every space and situation. There are some factors you should keep in mind before making the decision to use styrofoam molding in your space. For starters, you can't expect foam molding to fully replicate wood, especially when you look at it up close. If an authentic, natural look is the top priority for you, then stick with wood trim. 

Also, while foam might be tough against moisture damage, due to its soft composition, it is more prone to dents and damage in high-traffic areas. This means it is best used where the ceiling meets the wall, and not in lower areas like a chair rail or panelling that could get easily bumped. Lastly, styrofoam molding should not be installed near stoves or fireplaces, as extremely high heat can cause it to melt, warp, or discolor. Aside from these few drawbacks, styrofoam molding is a great way to add high-end architectural details on a low-end budget.