Installing Wood Trim

The purpose of wood trim is to cover imperfections between the doorframe and the opening that holds the frame in place. Casings, also known as the trim around the door, also help set the overall character of your home's style. Wood trim is used in all parts of every home. The trim can be very plain and functional to very ornate and from inexpensive to very expensive. The main difference is quality in the woodwork.

Replacing wood trim is an easy do-it-yourself project. Skill level will depend on the type of casing you decide on. The more decorative the molding, the more difficult the project will be. It doesn’t matter if you are replacing your trim or installing new trim around a door, the process is the same. First you will need to gather your tools. Tools you will need include a miter box or power miter saw (if available), a handsaw, hammer and trim nails, wood putty and a measuring tape.

After you have gathered your tools, you will need to measure around the door casing, including the top of the door, to determine the amount of molding you will need. Cut the pieces of trim according to your measurements making 45-degree angle cuts with either the miter box or the power miter saw, on the top end of the side casing piece and on each end of the top piece.

The bottom side of the top casings should have the 45-degree angle cut pointing in toward the door. Apply a small bead of wood glue to one side of the casing, fitting the two 45-degree angles together snuggly. Tack the trim pieces together around the door frame. Wipe off any remaining glue and drive all nails slightly below the surface of the casing. Fill each nail hole with wood putty and smooth off to finish.