Millwork Supplies in Springfield, IL

Common choices for interior millwork include poplar, oak, maple, and pine, each with different strengths. Poplar is great for painted trim because it’s smooth and cost-effective, while oak and maple are harder, more durable options that look best stained to show the grain. Pine is softer and more budget-friendly but dents more easily in high-traffic areas. Your choice should consider whether you plan to paint or stain, your budget, and how much wear the area will see.

Springfield’s seasonal humidity swings and temperature changes can cause natural wood to expand and contract, leading to gaps or warping if not properly acclimated and sealed. Engineered wood and MDF tend to be more stable in these conditions for painted trim, while solid hardwoods perform best when they’re sealed on all sides and allowed to acclimate indoors before installation. It’s also smart to avoid installing millwork in unconditioned spaces until the building’s HVAC is running. Proper caulking and finishing help protect against moisture-related movement over time.

MDF (medium-density fiberboard) offers a very smooth surface for paint, is usually more affordable, and resists warping, but it’s heavier and more susceptible to water damage. Finger-jointed pine is made from smaller pieces of wood joined together, giving you a paint-grade product with the look and workability of wood at a lower cost than clear solid stock. Solid wood, like clear pine or hardwoods, is the most traditional and repairable option, especially for stain-grade applications, but it’s usually more expensive and can move more with humidity. Your decision often comes down to budget, whether you’re painting or staining, and the room’s moisture exposure.

For exterior trim, it’s important to select materials that resist moisture, temperature swings, and UV exposure, such as PVC, fiber cement, or treated wood. PVC and fiber cement are low-maintenance and won’t rot, making them good choices for fascia, corner boards, and exterior casings exposed to rain and snow. If you prefer wood, choose species and treatments rated for exterior use and be diligent with priming, painting, and ongoing maintenance. Always follow manufacturer guidelines for fasteners and sealants to prevent water infiltration.

Let all millwork acclimate indoors for at least 24–48 hours before installation to reduce movement after it’s installed. Use a quality miter saw and test-fit your corners, then secure trim with appropriately sized finish nails into studs or solid backing. Caulk small gaps between trim and walls with paintable caulk and fill nail holes with wood filler or spackle before sanding and painting. For long runs, use scarf joints (angled splices) on straight sections instead of butt joints to make seams less visible.