Traditional Window Casings

Types

• You can buy window casings in an array of woods to match any home. Window casings are even available in exotic hardwoods. You can also opt to buy pine casings that require painting. Unlike base moulding, traditional window casing has a rounded, outer edge. The window is usually framed out by mitered casings to create a picture frame appearance. You can use the same traditional casing design to create a matching chair rail along your wall near the window.

Cutting and Attaching

• When cutting traditional window casings for the home, you should consider using a miter saw or chop saw fitted with a crosscut blade to make the cuts perfect. The power saw will allow you to create a perfectly fitted mitered edge for the window casing. Any gap between the two edges of casing will stand out and appear unsightly. You attach the window casings to the wall around the window using finish carpenter nails.

Decorative Window Blocks

• Traditional window casings are often called colonial casings. You can enhance their appearance by placing decorative corner blocks in the corners of the window and installing the casing so it lies flush against the block. The decorative blocks usually extend slightly past the window casing. If you decided to use window blocks to complete the appearance, you will not have to make precious angled cuts in the window casings.

Installation

• You will need wood glue, a tape measure and nails to successfully install window casings. Because traditional casings are made out of wood, you should take care not to crack the casing when pounding a nail into it. Consider using a bit of lubrication on the nails as you hammer them into the wood's surface to prevent splitting. You should fill in the nail's holes with wood putty before painting the casing to give it a smooth, finished appearance.