How to Trim Out a Basement Window

Trimming out a basement window

Basement windows are usually smaller than the rest of the windows in the house. Basement windows usually have three sides, which can be trimmed, unlike normal windows, which have four sides. This is because they are mostly installed with a sill, which is built in. It is very important to trim out a basement window so as to prevent the buildup of moisture at the ground level. Different materials and styles are available. Examples include plastic and wood. Matching the trim with the other parts of the home or installing something are both good ideas.

Things You'll Need

• Caulk
• Tape measure
• Pre-primed exterior wood trim
• Miter saw
• Snail gun
• Eye protection
• Gloves
• Ear protection

Instructions

1. Put on the protective gear. This will protect you from harm.

2. Measure along the top of the basement window. This will be used for the size of the trim.

3. Place the measurement on a piece of trim. The marks should be at the bottom edge.

4. Place the trim on the miter saw. The trim should be facing up and the bottom edge should be facing the blade.

5. Rotate the miter blade so that it is pointing outward by 45 degrees. Cut the trim.

6. Slip the board so that the other mark will be in front of the blade. Rotate the blade as before so that it also points 45 degrees in the opposite direction. Cut the trim.

7. Place the trim on the top length of the window. The two cuts that are mitered should be coming off the corners. Shoot the nails into the casing of the window.

8. Get the size of one of the vertical sides by measuring it. Cut the upper end of the trim at 45 degrees and cut the lower end straight. Do the same for the vertical span.

9. Install the vertical pieces by shooting the nails into the casing of the window. The cuts that are mitered at the corners should be tightly together.

10. Caulk the trim.

Tips & Warnings

• Always keep your hands out of harm's way so as to avoid hurting yourself.

• If you had to remove old trim, you can save it and use it for templates for cutting new trim.

References

• this old house