How to Put Moulding Around a Window

Molding around a window adds a decorative touch to the room.

Windows don't have to have a moulding around them. However the moulding does add a bit of style and decoration, framing the windows like pictures. If your windows are plain, and are considering adding trim around the edges, it is not a difficult task. All you need is a few basic tools, supplies and trim pieces to get started. The project only takes a few hours, and adds a lot of character to the home.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Adjustable circular saw
• Paint
• Paintbrushes
• Level
• Finishing nails
• Hammer
• Wood putty
• Sandpaper

Instructions

1. Measure the window height and width and write these measurements down.

2. Mark the measurement of the width on one piece of molding. Start 3 or 4 inches in from one end of the molding and make a mark. Measure down the length of the molding equal to the width of the window and make another mark. This is the inside measurement of the window.

3. Adjust the saw to cut at a 45 degree angle. Cut the molding starting at the marks on each end so that the finished ends angle up and away from each other. Use the final cut molding as the template to make the marks for the other width piece. This way they will be the exact same measurements. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to get the other window width piece. Repeat again for the two height pieces.

4. Paint the molding pieces with a matching trim paint. Brush the paint on in long even strokes, following the grain of the wood, and let it dry for a couple hours.

5. Hold the top width molding piece up to the window. Adjust it so that the edge is even with the window edge. Use a level to ensure that it is horizontal, and tack in finishing nails to anchor it to the rough framing. Use two nails, one above the other, every 6 to 8 inches.

6. Fit a side piece of molding, which is the height, up to the side of the window so that the angle cut of it meets up with the top piece. Push it up to the edge of the window and check it with a level to ensure it is vertical. If it doesn't fit flush, use sandpaper to smooth the end. Once in place, use finishing nails to attach it. Repeat with the other side of the window.

7. Place the lower width piece up against the lower ends of the side molding. Sand if necessary to get it to fit. Any small gaps can be filled with woody putty later. If there are any large gaps, you need to cut a new piece. Nail the final moulding into place.

8. Countersink the nails in below the surface. Place a nail on top of the nail head and tap in lightly to push the nail in just below the surface of the moulding. Repeat with each nail head. Put some wood putty on your finger and cover the nail heads with it to hide them. Also fill in any small gaps at the corners. Let it dry for a few hours.

9. Sand the wood putty smooth with the wood surface and touch up with a little paint.

References

• Kelleher: How to Mitre Mouldings