What is an Architrave Cover?
An architrave cover - sometimes called a door frame cover or over-architrave moulding - is designed to sit directly over an existing door frame without requiring removal of the original architrave. It is the ideal solution for new-build homeowners who want the look of a decorative door surround without the disruption of a full replacement.
Most new-build properties are fitted with basic pencil round or square edge architrave as standard. While functional, these profiles offer little in the way of decorative detail. An architrave cover slots over the existing frame and immediately transforms the look of a doorway, adding the kind of depth and character you see in period properties and high-end interiors.
Browse our plinth blocks and rosettes to complete the look at the base of your door frame.
Hockey Stick Architrave Cover
The hockey stick architrave cover takes its name from the distinctive curved profile of the moulding - a gentle convex sweep that adds a subtle but effective layer of detail to any door frame. Hockey stick moulding and hockey stick beading have become increasingly popular in new-build upgrades precisely because the profile is understated enough to complement both contemporary and traditional interiors.
Unlike a full architrave replacement, the hockey stick door frame cover requires no specialist tools and no mitre at the head of the frame. It is one of the most straightforward door frame upgrades available and produces a result that looks far more involved than it actually is. Available in pre-primed MDF for a smooth, paint-ready finish.
Pair with our Victorian architrave or ogee architrave for a complete period-style door surround.
Traditional Architrave Cover
Our traditional architrave cover suits period and heritage interiors where a more classic profile is called for. The raised detail and gentle curves echo the decorative moulding styles found in Victorian and Edwardian properties, making this cover an excellent choice for older homes where the existing architrave has lost definition or been painted over too many times to carry any character.
Pre-primed and ready to paint, the traditional architrave cover works alongside our flexible architrave range for curved doorways and bay window surrounds.
Modern Architrave Cover
For contemporary interiors, the modern architrave cover delivers clean lines and a minimal profile that sits flush and sharp against the wall surface. Where the hockey stick cover adds rounded depth and the traditional cover brings period detail, the modern cover keeps things architectural and refined - ideal for open-plan spaces, new-build extensions, and anyone working with a flat or Scandi-influenced interior aesthetic.
Works particularly well alongside our thin architrave collection for a consistently minimal finish across the whole room.
Why Choose Pre-Primed MDF for Architrave Covers?
All MR Mouldings architrave covers are machined in moisture-resistant pre-primed MDF. Unlike pine mouldings, MDF has no grain, no knots, and no movement - which means your paint finish goes on smoother and lasts longer. Pre-primed means the surface is ready for your topcoat straight out of the box, saving you a preparation step and giving you a professional result with standard decorator's paint.
If you are upgrading the rest of your room at the same time, browse our full range of MDF door linings and architrave blocks to complete the door surround from top to bottom.
How to Fit an Architrave Cover
Fitting a door frame cover moulding is a straightforward process that requires no specialist skills. Apply a thin bead of grab adhesive to the back of the cover moulding, press firmly against the existing architrave, and secure with a pin nailer or panel pins while the adhesive sets. Once dry, fill any pin holes, caulk the edges where the cover meets the wall, and apply your chosen paint. The entire process for a single door frame typically takes under an hour.
For guidance on choosing the right adhesive, see our full range of fixing accessories.