How to Retrim Retrofit Windows
Replacing your windows is one way to boost the value of your home, especially if the new windows are more energy efficient. One of the popular styles of replacement windows is vinyl retrofit replacement windows. Read this eHow to learn how to trim retrofit windows. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Miter Saw
- Pneumatic gun
- Backer rod
- Flat molding
- Shoe molding
- Paintable caulk
- Miter saw
- Finish nails
- Trim pieces
Instructions
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Using Existing Trim
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Remove trim carefully before replacing old windows with retrofit windows.
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Use a pneumatic gun (pin nailer) to reattach trim.
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3
Press backer rod (a material used for filling gaps) into any gaps and cut off the end.
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Cut thin strips of flat molding with a miter saw. Use these strips to hide the gap between the sill and new retrofit windows.
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Make 45-degree strips of shoe molding (molding that's one quarter round) using a miter saw. Press these strips into place to hide any gaps between the trim and the window frame.
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Fill any remaining small gaps or cracks with paintable caulk to finish the retrim.
Making New Trim
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Pick out new trim at hardware store or big box store if you are unable to save your existing trim.
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Create new trim by measuring from inside edge to inside edge of the window frame top. Be certain to add a quarter inch to your measurement.
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Cut a 45-degree angle on one end of the trim using a miter saw.
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Add an additional quarter inch when measuring from the shortest edge of the 45-degree angle and make a mark.
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Make another cut so that the mark you made will be the short edge of another 45-degree angle.
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Hold the piece in place and make sure it's level. Use two finish nails to secure it.
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Repeat the process for each of the remaining pieces, including the bottom. Once every piece is in place and the trim is square, secure the trim with a nail every 8 to 12 inches on the outside face. Now your retrim is finished.
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