Trim is used to cover the joints around windows, doors, and add a decorative flourish to your home design. It’s the finishing touch on a residential glass project and adds insulation, helping regulate your home’s temperature. When you work with a glass expert to install new windows and trim, they’ll walk you through the selection and installation process as briefly described below.
First, select your trim material
The best trim material is wood that has been kiln-dried or has a precast foam. This ensures that the trim has a solid, strong structure that will last. You can browse your local home improvement store to see the latest advancements in trim, but a residential glass expert might have more information for you. As for size, vertical trim should be about half the height of a baseboard.
Second, select your trim style
There are three main styles of trim you can install around your windows and doors. The style should be consistent throughout your house, and should complement the overall design.
Complete/Full Trim
As its name describes, a complete trim surrounds all four sides of a window and door. It can consist of multiple, stacked layers or have one. The more layers, the more of a visual feature it’ll be in your home. Several styles include ranch, craftsman, and colonial.
Low-Profile Trim
A low-profile trim lays flat against the wall. It’s a more streamlined design that can make a wall seem more expansive because it doesn’t stand out as a main visual feature. You could use an interior trim, which takes up minimal space and draws more focus to the view outside.
Designer Trim
For a trim that doubles as art, you can install a designer trim. This could include an apron along the bottom and a header at the top. The trim can be decorated, fluted, or multi-layered with intricate designs. These take up more space than low-profile trims and are great for statement pieces.
Third, install the trim
If you’re up to DIY installation, start by evening out your walls. Fill in gaps with small wood chips that precisely fit the opening and are secured with wood glue.
Next, measure and cut the trim material. Make sure the joints fit tightly without any gaps. Then nail the trim around your windows or doors, starting at the top. Secure the trim to each other with wood glue.
Finish by filling the nail holes with spackle, then sand and smooth.
Get professional help if you’re not an experienced DIYer
Window and door trim installation can be challenging. The trim must be precisely measured. Improper measurement and installation will result in lopsided trim that takes away from your home’s cohesive design. Unless you’re experienced, ask residential glass contractors for help.
