How to Install Farmhouse Window Trim
Farmhouse-style window trim is a quick way to give any room a clean finished look. You don’t need to be a carpenter to install this classic trim. You can do it yourself in just 30 minutes to an hour. Here’s what you’ll need for this inexpensive intermediate-level project.
TOOLS
- Tape Measure
- Miter Saw
- Jig Saw
- 16 Gauge Finish Nailer
- Quick Square
- Putty Knife
- Sanding Block
- Paint Brush
- Wet/Dry Vac (Opt.)
MATERIALS
- Window Stool Molding
- Window Casing
- 1” x 4”
- 1” x 2”
- 1” x 3”
- Wood Glue
- Wood Putty
- Paint
- 16 Gauge Nails for Nailer
When taking on this DIY task, be sure to equip yourself with the proper safety gear.
STEP ONE
Measure and cut stool. Measure your window frame and draw a sketch with the measurements to determine how much overhang, and what kind of reveal you’d like for your stool. Make sure to leave enough room for your reveal beyond the vertical framing pieces. Cut your 1”x4” to length. Measure the depth from the window pane to the front of the window frame along the bottom edge, marking the measurement on each end of your stool molding. Cut the corners of your molding with your jigsaw so it will sit flush on the stool with your preferred overhang on both sides of the window frame.
STEP TWO
Install stool molding. Place your stool molding on the bottom of the window frame, flush against both the window and the wall where there’s overhang. Fasten the stool molding with a 16-gauge finish nailer.
STEP THREE
Install side casings. Measure up from the stool to determine the length of your side casing. Mark your reveal. In this case, three sixteenths of an inch at the bottom and top. Cut two 1”x4”s to length with a miter saw. Align the side pieces with the marks on your stool molding, and fasten each to the framing with a nailer.
STEP FOUR
Build top casing. After cutting your wood to size, clamp a piece of 1”x2” to the top and bottom of a 1”x4”, making sure the overhang is equal on both sides. Fasten the pieces together with your nailer, being careful to nail straight into the wood. Once secure, clamp a 1”x3” to the top of your build, and secure it with your nailer.
STEP FIVE
Install top casing. Set the top casing assembly in place, checking for the proper reveal on each side. Nail the top casing assembly to the jamb with nails spaced about every six inches.
STEP SIX
Install bottom casing. The bottom casing, also known as the apron, sits just under the stool. Cut a piece of 1”x4” so the ends line up with the edges of the casings above. Mark the bottom of the stool molding to indicate the reveal, and fasten to the frame.
STEP SEVEN
Finishing. Fill your holes and seams with wood putty and let dry, then sand and paint to your liking.
Your build is complete. Step back and admire your new farmhouse window trim.
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