A door pediment is the decorative element applied above the head casing of a door, designed to add a classical architectural feature to the entryway. The pediment is the most common overdoor decoration in formal traditional interiors.
The most common pediment is the triangular pediment. A triangular shape, with two sloped sides and a horizontal base, applied to the wall above the head casing. The triangular pediment is the classical Greek and Roman signature, and it's used in formal traditional interiors with a Greek or Roman vocabulary.
A second common pediment is the segmental pediment. A curved shape, with a single arc forming the top edge, applied to the wall above the head casing. The segmental pediment is a softer alternative to the triangular, and it's used in Federal, Georgian, and Adam-style interiors.
A third common pediment is the broken pediment. A pediment with a break in the center, often filled with a small urn, a finial, or a cartouche. The broken pediment is a Baroque and Rococo detail, used in formal traditional interiors with a Baroque vocabulary.
A fourth common pediment is the scrolled pediment. A pediment with scrolls on each side, often with a central cartouche or rosette. The scrolled pediment is a Federal and Empire detail, used in formal traditional interiors with a Federal vocabulary.
A fifth common pediment is the simple straight pediment. A horizontal element applied above the head casing, with a small profile and no slope. The simple pediment is the most restrained option, suitable for transitional interiors.
For sourcing, PU door pediments are a stock product at most factories that produce classical trim. The pediments are available in a range of standard designs and sizes, with quick lead times and competitive pricing. Custom designs are available on longer lead times.
A practical install note: the pediment is installed above the head casing, with construction adhesive and a few screws into the wall studs. The pediment is heavier than a casing (a 1.5 meter pediment can weigh 5 to 10 kilograms), and the install may require a helper. The wall behind the pediment should be checked for adequate structure, and the pediment should be secured with screws that go into a stud or blocking.
A practical note on the right pediment for the right room. The pediment's design should be coordinated with the room's overall style. A triangular pediment in a Federal room reads as a stylistic mismatch; a broken pediment in a Greek Revival room reads as too ornate. The selection should be deliberate, and the pediment should be part of the room's overall composition.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is polyurethane (PU) decorative material?
A: Polyurethane (PU) decorative material is a high-density closed-cell polymer molded into architectural profiles such as cornices, ceiling medallions, wall panels, columns, and skirting boards. It replicates the appearance of plaster, carved wood, or stone at one-quarter the weight, is fully waterproof, impact-resistant, and arrives factory-primed for paint.
Q: How does PU compare with plaster and wood mouldings?
A: PU is lighter than plaster (no scaffolding required), impact-resistant during transport, and immune to cracking. Compared with wood, PU does not warp, split, or attract termites, and it tolerates moisture in bathrooms and kitchens. The trade-off: PU cannot be refinished the way solid wood can, but its lifespan is 20–30+ years with minimal maintenance.
Q: How do you cut and finish PU mouldings?
A: Cut PU mouldings with a fine-tooth miter saw (40+ teeth for a 10-inch blade) to avoid chipping the molded edge. Sand the cut edge with 220-grit, then apply two coats of interior latex paint. Mitre joints at corners, fill seams with lightweight spackle, sand smooth, and finish with one final top coat.
Q: Is PU moulding safe for indoor air quality?
A: Yes. Premium PU mouldings are manufactured without formaldehyde, asbestos, or VOCs. They meet EN 13501-1 Class E fire classification as a minimum, with Class B fire-retardant versions available for commercial projects. The factory-applied water-based primer further reduces off-gassing once installed.