How to Install Basement Window Trim

Basement windows are essential to bring light and air into this underground space. There are a number of different types of windows available, each requiring some finishing touches. Window trim can be placed around the outside of a window to tidy it up and make it look much more attractive.

Installing window trim in your basement is very easy as long as you have the right tools and materials available.

Step 1 - Choosing the Style

First you need to choose the style of window trim that you want to use. There are lots of different examples which you can learn about on the Internet and in various magazines.

Step 2 - Measurements

Take measurements around the window using a tape measure. Make sure that you include both inside and outside measurements if you want to fit window trim to external and internal sides of the window.

Step 3 - Preparing Your Workplace

Before you can start work you need to prepare a large enough space to work comfortably. Make sure that the workplace is at the right height and that you have plenty of light available.

Collect together all of the tools and materials that you will need including miter saw, hammer, nails and tape measure.

Step 4 - Cutting the Trim

Now you need to use your measurements and mark the lengths required on the pieces of wood trim. Use a pencil to mark the measurements accurately. Now you will need to use a miter saw to cut the trim at a 45 degree angle, this will ensure that the trim fits together properly.

Step 5 - Fitting the Trim

Now the trim needs to be fitted to the area around the window frame. The easiest way of doing this is to either use adhesive or to screw it in place. The walls of your basement will typically be made out of concrete which makes it unsuitable for the use of nails. You can use adhesive and screw together as an effective way of fixing the trim to the walls.

Step 6 - Filling Holes

If you used screws then you will need to fill the holes using wood putty no matter how small they are. It should be very easy to fill these holes by using a putty knife. Allow the wood putty to dry and then use sand paper to level the surface of the wood putty and the wood. You might have to fill the wood several times to get the best result.

Step 7 - Finishing the Window Trim

Now you need to decide how you intend to finish the window trim. You can either paint or stain the window trim depending on what you want it to look like. Give some through to the decor of your room and the style of your windows. If you're painting the window trim then you might need to paint more than one coat.