Changing Window Trim

By Robert Robillard on Finish Carpentry

Colonial Trim To Flat Trim ~ Country Style

Changing Window Trim

I installed this kitchen window a year ago with 2 1/2″ Colonial casing. The customer recently decided to change this casing to 1×4 flat casing to better fit her country style home.
1×4 flat stock really measures 3/4″ x 3 1/2″.

Changing Window Trim

After removing the old casing the first step is to mark your margins. Margins are the distance the new trim will set back from the edge of the window jamb. I set my margins at 3/16″ or 1/4″ which ever looks better or matches existing windows.

Because this window was stained the margins were marked or stained for me. I measured 3 1/2″ from the left and right margins to get my bottom trim length.

Changing Window Trim

Once the bottom casing is applied and level I measure up on the left and right sides tot he top margins. Comparing the lengths, in a perfect world there the same measurement, I then cut them the same and install them plumb or at least keeping the same “vertical” 3/16″ or 1/4″margin.

In theory the top trim piece should be the same as the bottom. I always measure the distance between the two vertical trim pieces to get the top trim length.

Remember to hold the board tight to the vertical boards as you nail to get the joint as tight as possible.

Changing Window Trim

I sanded the trim in place to remove mill marks and soften the edges.

Finished look prior to staining.

Changing Window Trim

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About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

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