Simple Window Trim and Door Trim Guide (DIY)
Introduction
Tradition window and door trim looks more complicated than picture-framed trim, but it's actually simpler and more forgiving. It also hides uneven walls and jambs better.Traditional vs. modern window trim
Meet the editor
During his 20-plus years as a remodeling contractor, Jeff Gorton specialized in old-house renovations. He installed classic trim like this on hundreds of doors and windows.
This traditional trim style for windows and doors may look like it requires old-school carpentry skills, but the truth is, it’s easier to install than contemporary door and window trim. Modern window trim—four pieces of casing that “picture frame” a door or window—requires wide miter cuts, which look sloppy if they’re not perfect. Traditional window and door trim is more forgiving. While it also requires miter cuts, they’re shorter and less visible. And the most prominent joints are assembled with simple square cuts.
If you’re nervous about installing the mitered crown molding that tops off the window molding and door trim, check out “Make Your Own Moldings” below for window trim ideas, where we show you how to make a simple router-shaped version that doesn’t require any miters. We’ll walk you through the steps and give you some tips and pointers for cutting and installing the window moldings to create this classic trim style.
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