Gypsum decorative elements like cornices, moldings, rosettes, columns, and friezes add timeless elegance to interiors. However, their fragile nature requires thoughtful handling, especially when transporting, storing, or installing. This guide walks you through best practices to ensure your gypsum decor remains intact and beautiful from purchase to final placement.
🚚 Transportation & Packaging Guidelines
For local deliveries (New York and nearby regions):
- Small items such as vinettes, decorative inserts, and column capitals are wrapped in paper and packed into cardboard boxes.
- Larger items like composite cornices, column shafts, and ceiling rosettes are not packaged but separated with cardboard sheets or foam.
For long-distance shipping:
- Use full-load trucks to avoid repackaging into containers — poor stacking can lead to deformation.
📦 Storage Tips to Prevent Warping and Mold
Gypsum items, especially those delivered in raw (uncoated) form, require careful storage if not installed immediately:
- Lay flat on a completely even surface in a dry, well-ventilated room.
- Pieces should be stacked tightly to avoid gaps, which can cause warping.
- Decorative elements (like rosettes) packed in paper should be unwrapped upon arrival to prevent moisture buildup.
💡 Never store raw gypsum elements in humid or poorly ventilated areas — they can absorb moisture and develop mold.
🛠️ Basic Installation Recommendations
Installing gypsum molding isn’t overly complicated, but precision matters. Here’s a general step-by-step:
1. Surface Preparation
- Surfaces must be dry, clean, and flat.
- Walls and ceilings should ideally be prepped up to the final skim coat, although some light repair may be needed afterward.
2. Tools and Adhesive Mix
- Gypsum decor is installed using a custom mix of plaster and adhesive. Most professional installers use their own preferred formula, adjusting the proportions based on the weight, size, and shape of each piece. This ensures a secure bond and clean finish for every installation.
3. Mounting Process
- Mark lines using a chalk reel or laser level for accuracy.
- Apply adhesive to both the surface and the back of the element.
- Press into place, aligning with guide lines.
- Clean off excess adhesive immediately.
- Once dry, fill joints with fresh gypsum, smooth surfaces with a scraper, and sand where needed.
4. Fastening
- Heavier elements (like columns or large cornices) should be additionally secured with screws, dowels, or anchors.
🔧 Extra Tips by Product Type
- Cornices & Moldings: Watch for pattern alignment at corners. Use symmetrical, asymmetrical, or seamless jointing depending on the design.
- Rosettes: Center precisely using laser alignment. Press to fully seat the rosette and avoid gaps.
- Columns: Align perfectly using metal profiles and laser tools. Do not pour gypsum fill all at once — work in layers.