How to Install Window Molding

Many do-it-yourself enthusiasts have stayed away from molding projects in the past because the thought of getting those miter cuts right brought on a case of hives. Trimming your windows with updated molding doesn't have to be so scary if you have a little bit of patience and follow these steps.

Molding
Miter saw
Hammer
Nail set
Wood putty
Putty knife
Safety glasses
Sand paper
Paint
Paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Measure and miter your molding. Begin the process by measuring and cutting the molding that you plan to install on the sides of the window. Using your miter saw, cut the top edges of the molding at a 45-degree angle.
- 2
  Nail the moldings into place. Using your hammer and finishing nails, attach the two side pieces of molding to the wall. On average, this process uses approximately 10 finishing nails per piece, four on the inside and six on the outside edges.
- 3
  Top the window off. Measure exactly the distance between the two top edges of the side pieces of molding. Cut the piece to be used on the top of the window to size, mitering both ends at a 45-degree angle to fit into place.
- 4
  Secure the top piece of molding. When nailing the top piece into place, be sure to hammer the finishing nails through either the top or side of the corner joint you created.
- 5
  Prep the surface for finishing paint. Fill in the nail holes with wood putty, and sand the spot until it's smooth. The spots are then ready to be painted your trim color.

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Windows