Purpose of Window Trim

Practical Purpose

• Window trim covers the gap between the edge of the wall opening and the window frame. Without trim, the window would be unfinished, leaving open space in the wall. Small children could drop items into the opening and insects and mice living in the walls could easily travel into your living area.

Cosmetic Purpose

• Window trim can echo the architectural style of a room. Victorian window trim makes the room look very different than modern window trim.

Energy Efficiency

• Window trim reduces drafts by closing the gap between the wall edge and the window. The trim creates a barrier that keeps out cold air, making your home more energy efficient than it would be otherwise.

Design Ideas

• Bob Vila suggests treating a bank of two or more windows as one window when it comes to trimming the top and bottom of the windows. Cut long pieces of trim along the top and bottom of the windows, turning the windows into one large design element.

Finishes

• Whether you decide to paint or stain your window trim, select a color that matches some of the furniture in the room, such as chairs, tables and bookcases. This will tie the furniture into a unified look with the room as a whole. If you are going to stain the trim for a natural wood look, make sure that all your pieces of wood trim have similar color and grain. Mismatched trim pieces would detract from the room's look instead of enhancing it.