Lead time for knives is approximately 1 week.

Back Relief Molding Knives

Back Relief Overview

Back Relief is a functional cut on the back of molding profiles to reduce surface contact between the trim and the wall or substrate. This shallow recess, or hollowed-out area, helps prevent cupping, bowing, and telegraphing due to wood movement or wall irregularities. While invisible from the finished side, back relief plays a critical role in smoother installation and longer-lasting trim.

Profile Description

  • Features a shallow, concave recess along the backside of the molding profile.
  • Typically spans the length of the molding and varies in depth based on the profile’s overall size.
  • Designed to reduce the surface area in contact with the wall or mounting surface.
  • Compatible with many profile types, including baseboards, casings, crowns, and panel moldings.

Purpose

  • Reduces the risk of cupping and warping in solid wood moldings caused by seasonal moisture changes.
  • Helps trim sit more evenly against uneven surfaces, improving fit and finish.
  • Eases installation by minimizing friction and allowing for slight adjustments.
  • Creates an air gap that can aid in preventing mold or mildew buildup in humid environments.

Common Usage

Solid Wood Moldings: Often used on baseboards, casings, crowns, and panel moldings to stabilize the profile for long-term durability.

Historic Renovations: Helps maintain the integrity of moldings in older homes with less-than-perfect wall surfaces.

Humidity-Prone Areas: Common in kitchens, bathrooms, or basements where moisture can affect the shape and fit of wood trim.

Custom Profiles: Frequently requested as an add-on feature when ordering custom molding knives to improve overall performance.

How a Profile Molding Knife Works

  1. The profile knife itself is a piece of metal designed to be attached to a planer or molding machine.
  2. The profile of the cutting edge replicates the specific design of the door stop molding you want to create.
  3. By running wood planks through the machine with the profile knife attached, the wood is shaped into the desired door stop molding profile.

Custom Knives

Are you looking for a custom molding knife or a unique profile?

Williams & Hussey specializes in custom profile knives. We can replicate or create new designs using a sketch, drawing, or physical sample. Our team has experience producing high-quality custom knives, from classic baseboards to intricate historic restorations.

Knife Sharpen Service

Keeping knives clean and sharp will result in a smooth profile finish.
  1. Our knife sharpening service will inspect each set of knives for any damage and proper knife thickness.
  2. If knives are damaged or too thin, we will contact you to discuss replacement options.
  3. Sharpening services are processed and shipped within 1-2 business days.

Genuine W&H Profile Molder Knives

Our profile knives are designed to work seamlessly with all Williams & Hussey Molder models, whether old or new.

Crafted with the same commitment to quality, durability, and longevity as our molders, our standard and custom knives deliver exceptional performance.

Each set includes two knives.

These knives create a crisp, clean finish on every molding profile. Precision bolt-hole alignment, proper knife clearance, and optimized back-off angle define what we proudly call a GENUINE W&H profile knife.

Trust in quality. Expect precision.

Every Williams & Hussey knife is laser-engraved with our logo, guaranteeing authenticity and superior performance.

Important Notice!

Williams & Hussey takes pride in the workmanship and quality of our products and replacement parts.

Our products are designed and manufactured to the highest quality, and we stand behind each part and assembly built. However, we cannot guarantee the quality of others’ products or the compatibility of Williams & Hussey knives with third-party products.

Use of Williams & Hussey knives in third-party molders and other products not manufactured by Williams & Hussey is at the user’s own risk, without warranty, and without opportunity for refund for any reason.

Need Assistance or Have a Question?

Williams & Hussey is here to help you find the right molding knife profile for your molder and are happy to answer your questions about any of our products.