For true home renovation beginners, the very idea of window trim installation can make them want to run for the hills. The thought of using strange power tools, measuring pieces of trim, and making it all fit perfectly around a window sounds daunting to say the least, but the truth is, even the most inexperienced people can do it.
Now, you’re probably wondering why should you add trim to your windows? Well, if you’ve ever seen a before and after picture of a window going from bare walls to lavish trim, you’d know that it instantly makes any room look more upscale. It adds interest to an otherwise boring wall and can even make a small room feel bigger. And all it takes is a few pieces of wooden trim, a few nails and a bit of paint.
If you want to try a bit of window trim installation yourself, here are a few very basic tips to keep in mind before you start.
Measure twice, cut once.
This sounds self-explanatory, but the more accurately you measure your pieces, the better your final product will look. As any contractor will tell you, the key to getting accurately cut pieces is to measure twice before you even think about cutting the pieces.
Another tip to keep in mind is to measure every piece of your window individually. Window trim installation is all about perfectly fitting pieces, and windows, especially in older homes, are not always perfectly symmetrical.
Fill in the gaps.
When you put a bunch of measured and cut pieces of trim together, there are bound to be imperfections. Even the best and most experienced carpenters can have cracks in between the pieces of their trim, so don’t worry about it if you do.
The best thing about window trim installation projects are that you’ll be painting it afterwards, so go ahead and fill in any cracks with a paintable caulking.
As you caulk, be sure to smooth each line out with a caulking tool or your finger (make sure you’re using wet fingers to keep the caulk from sticking!) After it dries and you’re happy with it, you’ll be ready for the final step.
Paint perfectly.
As with any project, the way you finish it is often the most important step. If your paint job looks sloppy, chances are all of your craftsmanship won’t look half as good as it really is. If you successfully complete your window installation project, you’re definitely going to want to show it off, so make sure the paint job looks good.
In the end, installing window trim is a fairly simple project to do yourself, if you do your research. Keep these tips in mind to make the job even easier.