Moldings for the Interiors of Windows That Are Prefabricated

Window Casings

• Contractors usually refer to interior window moldings as casings, which cover openings that exist between a window frame and an adjacent wall. Traditional wood casings consist of two vertical and two horizontal pieces that surround a window like a picture frame. Each piece must be cut precisely to prevent gaps between the adjoining ends of the casing. Prefabricated casings come in one piece and require no additional cutting. They’re available in standard window sizes, but manufacturers also make custom one-piece casings to fit nonstandard windows.

Benefits

• Some manufacturers make prefabricated window casings with polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC has an advantage over wood, because it resists warping that makes it difficult to align casings properly. PVC retailer Shoreline Millwork indicates that its white PVC casings don’t need painting, but the company asserts that its products can hold a paint finish longer than wood casings. Manufacturers also make interior vinyl or wood casings with a window stool, or sill, already attached, such as the casings offered by Harvey Building Products.

Nonstandard Windows

• Prefabricated casings are especially useful for homes with nonstandard window shapes, such as arched and circular windows. It’s particularly difficult for do-it-yourselfers to cut casings that fit such windows appropriately, so prefabricated casings are usually a better option. CurveMakers is among companies that have interior wood casings that fit arched windows and doors, and the company has precut kits available for do-it-yourselfers.

Costs

• Prices for prefabricated window trim vary greatly, because they’re based on window sizes and the material homeowners choose for their casings. Nonetheless, you probably will save money on labor costs, even if you don't install your casings. Unlike traditional moldings, professional installers can bypass measuring and cutting individual pieces and hang each prefabricated window casing in a few minutes.