How to Replace the Brick Molding Around a Window

Easily remove the brick window molding and install your own molding.

A common type of trim work installed on the exterior of windows and doors, brick molding comes with a primer coat of paint already applied, but it requires finish paint and nail patching after installation. Because many windows come from the factory with the brick molding pre-installed, contractors fasten the window unit through the brick molding with large finish nails. In the factory, assemblers fasten the molding to the window jambs with staples. Replacement of the brick molding requires understanding these fastening methods.

Things You'll Need

• Reciprocating saw
• Metal cutting reciprocating saw blade
• Flat pry bar
• Hammer
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Brick molding
• Miter saw
• Latex caulk
• Finish nails
• Caulking gun
• Nail set
• Wood dope
• Sandpaper

Instructions

Removal

1. Wedge the straight end of a pry bar between the jamb and the brick molding, then lightly strike the bar with the hammer.

2. Gently pry the trim away from the jamb around the perimeter of the window. Avoid damaging the window jamb or window.

3. Place the reciprocating saw blade in the crack between the brick molding and the window, cutting through the nails and staples.

4. Use a hammer to drive down any nails protruding from the surface of the window jamb.

Installation

1. Measure the perimeter of the window jamb with a tape measure and write down the dimensions.

2. Set aside four pieces of new brick molding.

3. Swing the miter saw to 45 degrees and lock it.

4. Place the brick molding on the miter saw table while holding it tight against the saw fence.

5. Cut the first miter for the brick molding.

6. Transfer the dimension written down for the first piece to the brick molding and mark it with the pencil.

7. Cut the other angle opposite the previous cut. If you're installing the first piece on the top, the left 45-degree cut should angle to the left. The right angle should point to the right, with the smaller length of the brick molding on the bottom running from corner to corner. The top dimension is longer because of the angled cuts.

8. Cut and fit the remaining pieces of brick molding by following the previous steps.

9. Apply latex caulk on the edge of the jamb to provide a seal for the brick molding.

10. Attach the molding with the finish galvanized nails by installing the nails through the brick molding and into the framing around the window. Drive the nails flush with the nail set.

Finish Work

1. Seal the miter cuts with latex caulk if necessary. Let it dry.

2. Cover the nails with wood dope, let them dry, then sand.

3. Paint the finish coat to complete the job.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply caulk to the miter cuts in the corners to create a weatherproof seal.

• Follow the operator's instruction manual included with the miter saw, and always wear eye protection when using hand and power tools

References

• Good Millwork: Exterior Window Trim aka Brick Molding