How to Trim Out a Window

By: Scott Gibson, This Old House magazine

Shopping List

Supplies You Will Need

1. WOOD MOLDING

2. CARPENTER'S GLUE

3. PENCIL

4. PAINT OR STAIN

5. 120-GRIT SANDPAPER

6. WOOD PUTTY

7. 4D AND 8D FINISHING NAILS

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Tools List
Tools You Will Need
- 20-ounce finish hammer
- Hand plane,
  for trimming jamb extensions
- Measuring tape
- Router,
  for making stool profile
- Random-orbit sander,
  or hand sanding block
- Jigsaw,
  for notching stool and profiling apron
- Pneumatic nailer,
  for attaching casing
- Compass,
  for transferring marks and reveal lines
- Table saw,
  for cutting rabbet in bottom of stool
- Square,
  for marking casing, stool, and apron
- Utility knife or chisel,
  for trimming drywall and adjusting fit of stool
- Miter saw,
  for crosscutting trim pieces to length
- Nail set (to recess heads of hand-driven nails
- Drill with 1/16-inch-diameter bit,
  for making pilot holes before hand nailing
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Product Gallery
Product selections for this project
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Introduction
Overview
Steps:
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9

2 to 4 hours per window
$2 to $10 per linear foot of molding

Difficulty: Moderate It takes patience and attention to detail to trim out a window like a pro

Whether restoring old houses or building new ones that look old, Tom Silva finds finish carpentry the most satisfying part of the job. For this project, Tom installed window trim that has reeded side and head casings, plain corner blocks, a thick stool, and a dainty apron, all of which he copied from the original trim. "People often put in a casing that's too small or a different style," Tom says, "but I think it adds to the feel and the value of a home to keep to its original character."

As with all finish carpentry, Tom says, successful installation begins with stable material - clear, kiln-dried wood or precast foam - and ends with precise measurements and cuts. The result is a seamless assembly with tight joints and no gaps between wall and casing. "Take your time, and always measure twice before you cut," says Tom.