How to Trim Exterior Windows

It is easy to improve the exterior look of any home buy adding the right window trim. Depending on the style of your home, there are several options available to give it the look you want. Trim the windows yourself and save a little cash while improving your home.

Supplies

• Table Saw


• Crowbar


• Battery Screwdriver


• Wood Putty


• Hammer


• Finish Nails


• Caulking Gun


• Caulk


• Snips


• Putty Knife

Remove Old Trim

• Use a crowbar to remove old trim, being careful not to damage the siding.


• Snip off or pull any remaining nails and screws.


• Scrape the area to remove all old glue, caulking and putty. Make sure siding is completely free of debris before installing new trim.

Install New Trim

• Take the trim you removed and lay it next to your new trim lumber to use as a guide when cutting.


• Measure the old trim and cut the new pieces to fit the same size. Do one cut at a time to make sure they fit properly, then use 45 degree angles at each corner for the best seal and look.


• Hang the new trim with finishing nails and a hammer. Use a nail gun if you own one for easier application.


• Finish hanging all the new trim and then use caulking to seal the edges of each board. Run your finger or putty knife down the strip of caulking to smooth it out.


• Check that all nail heads are slightly below the surface of the trim, then add wood putty to finish covering them up.


• Allow a couple days for the putty to dry and then paint with a primer. When the primer has finished drying, add a coat of paint.