Beautify Your Home With Crown Molding and Other Trim Upgrades

Whether restoring old houses or building new ones that just look old, This Old House general contractor 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.

For full step-by-step instructions, shopping lists, and tool list, see How to Trim Out a Window.