How to Install Trim Around a Garage Door Opening

Whether the trim around your garage door opening is getting old and you want to replace it or you want to install trimming around a brand new garage door, the job can be very easy as long as you have a few hours of time and the right tools.

Step 1 - Remove Old Trim

If you currently have trim around your garage door, you will need to remove it before installing the new trim. Before prying it off, make sure that you open the garage door all the way so that you do not accidentally damage it while removing the old trim.

Remove the trim from the doorjamb carefully using either a crowbar or a flat-head screwdriver depending on the size of trim you are removing. Make sure that all the nails are removed either by pulling them out with the trim or using the prongs of a hammer to remove them.

Once everything has been removed, you will want to sand down the area to make sure it is smooth for the new trim. If you wish, you can use a sander to make this process a little faster. Make sure the area is smooth before continuing on.

Step 2 - Cut Your Trim to Size

Once all the trim has been removed, you may close your garage door. Then measure the size of your garage door opening with a tape measure and write down the size. You will need to measure both the height and the width of the garage door. This will determine how long your trim will need to be. Use a hack saw to cut the trim to the length you need. If you are adding trim to other parts of the door, cut those pieces out as well.

Step 3 - Position the Weather Stripping and Trim Above the Garage

Ask a friend to help you position the trim above the garage. Before you lift the trim, place any weather stripping you would like to have near or behind the trim to the location you wish. This will prevent you from having problems installing it later.

Lift the trim to the desired location and hammer in finishing nails to keep it in place. Make sure the nails are approximately a foot apart to have the best results.

Step 4 - Position Weather Stripping and Trim to Sides of Garage

In the same way you placed the trim on above the garage, make sure you place any weather stripping you desire first and then lay down the trim, hammering in nails every foot to hold it into place. Do one side at a time and have someone hold the trim while you work to keep it straight and sturdy.

Once you have finished adding the trim, you may want to consider using a caulking gun to get any openings or areas you missed to help prevent water from damaging your trim or items in your garage.