The door trim can become loose or damaged over time, resulting in drafty rooms and an unappealing appearance. Replacing door trim is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials. By following a step-by-step guide, homeowners can easily restore the functionality and aesthetic appeal of their doors. This article provides a comprehensive guide to replacing door trim, including removing the old trim, installing the new trim, and finishing touches for a professional-looking result.
Before starting the project, it is essential to gather the necessary tools, including a pry bar, hammer, nail gun, measuring tape, level, and miter saw. The choice of trim material depends on personal preference and the existing décor. Common options include wood, MDF, or PVC. Once the materials and tools are ready, the next step is to remove the old trim carefully using the pry bar and hammer. It is important to avoid damaging the door frame during the removal process.
After removing the old trim, the new trim can be installed. First, measure and cut the trim pieces to the appropriate length using the miter saw. Ensure that the mitered corners are cut precisely for a seamless fit. Apply a thin layer of adhesive to the back of the trim pieces and secure them in place using a nail gun. Counter-sink the nails slightly below the surface of the trim using a nail set. Finally, fill the nail holes with wood filler and sand the surface smooth. For a professional finish, apply paint or stain to match the existing woodwork.
Removing the Old Trim
Replacing your door trim is a simple home improvement project that can give your space a fresh, updated look. Before you can install new trim, you’ll need to remove the old trim. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Tools and Materials
| Tool/Material |
|---|
| Pry bar |
| Hammer |
| Utility knife |
| Caulk gun |
| Caulk remover |
Safety First!
Before you begin, make sure to wear safety glasses and gloves. Also, be careful when using sharp tools like the utility knife and pry bar.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Remove the doorstop. This is the thin strip of wood that runs along the bottom of the door frame. To remove it, insert the pry bar between the doorstop and the door frame. Gently pry the doorstop loose.
- Cut the caulk. Use a utility knife to cut the caulk around the door trim. This will make it easier to remove the trim without damaging the wall or door frame.
- Loosen the trim nails. Use a hammer and a nailset to loosen the trim nails. Be careful not to hit the wall or door frame with the hammer.
- Remove the trim. Once the nails are loose, you can carefully remove the trim by pulling it away from the wall. If the trim is particularly stubborn, you may need to use a pry bar to help you.
- Clean up. Once the old trim is removed, clean up any remaining caulk or nails. You can use a caulk remover or a nail puller to remove the nails.
Measuring and Cutting the New Trim
Materials You’ll Need:
- New door trim
- Measuring tape
- Miter saw or coping saw
- Clamps
- Sandpaper or sanding block
- Nail gun or hammer and nails
Steps:
- Measure the Width and Height of the Door Frame:
- Measure the width of the door frame at the top, middle, and bottom.
- Measure the height of the door frame on both sides.
- Note down the longest measurement for each dimension.
- Cut the Side Trim:
- Mark the length of the side trim on the new trim board.
- Use a miter saw to cut a 45-degree angle on one end of the trim.
- Mark the height of the side trim on the other end of the trim board.
- Cut a straight cut at the marked height to create the second end of the side trim.
- Cut the Top Trim:
- Mark the length of the top trim on the new trim board.
- Use a miter saw to cut a 45-degree angle on both ends of the trim.
- Measure the width of the door frame opening.
- Subtract the width of the two side trims from this measurement.
- Mark the new length on the top trim and cut a straight cut to create the finished length.
Attaching the Trim with Nails
If using a brad nailer, set the depth to ¾ of the trim’s thickness to prevent the nails from going through the back of the casing. For hand-nailing, use 1½-inch trim nails, setting them at an angle and driving them ¾ the way into the casing.
Start by nailing the head casing first, then the jamb casing. Begin by nailing each corner and work toward the center. Be sure to drive the nails at a slight angle, aiming them toward the door frame.
Trim Type Nail Length ¼-inch 1-inch ½-inch 1½-inch ¾-inch 2-inch Once the head and jamb casings are in place, nail the bottom trim. If the bottom trim is wider than the rest of the casing, it may need to be mitered at the corners. For a professional finish, use a coping saw to cut a bullnose profile on the bottom trim, allowing it to fit snugly against both the jamb and the floor.
Applying Wood Filler to Imperfections
Before you apply wood filler to imperfections, you need to prepare the surface. This involves cleaning the area with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Once the surface is clean, you can apply the wood filler using a putty knife. Fill the imperfections with the wood filler, making sure to press it into the hole or crack. Smooth the wood filler over the surface using the putty knife. Allow the wood filler to dry completely before sanding it smooth.
Tips for Applying Wood Filler
Here are a few tips for applying wood filler:
Tip Explanation Use a putty knife that is slightly wider than the imperfection This will help to spread the wood filler evenly over the surface. Apply the wood filler in thin layers This will help to prevent the wood filler from shrinking and cracking as it dries. Allow the wood filler to dry completely before sanding it Sanding the wood filler too soon can cause it to gum up and tear. Sanding the Trim Smooth
Once you have removed the old trim, you will need to sand the new trim to smooth it out. Start by using a coarse-grit sandpaper to remove any rough spots or splinters. Then, switch to a finer-grit sandpaper to smooth the trim further. Be sure to sand in the direction of the grain to avoid damaging the wood.
If you are using a power sander, be careful not to over-sand the trim. Sanding too much can remove the finish from the wood and make it look worn.
Here are some tips for sanding trim:
- Use a sharp sandpaper.
- Sand in the direction of the grain.
- Start with a coarse-grit sandpaper and switch to a finer-grit sandpaper.
- Be careful not to over-sand the trim.
- If you are using a power sander, use a light touch.
Once you have sanded the trim smooth, you can proceed to the next step.
Priming and Painting the Trim
Once the trim is installed, it’s time to prime and paint it to match the rest of the wall or door. Follow these steps for a professional-looking finish:
1. Apply Primer
Use a high-quality primer that is specifically designed for wood. Apply an even coat to the entire surface of the trim, including the edges and corners. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Sand the Primer
Once the primer is dry, lightly sand it with a fine-grit sandpaper (120-grit or higher) to smooth out any imperfections. Remove the sanding dust with a tack cloth.
3. Apply Paint
Choose a paint that is designed for wood and matches the desired finish. Apply an even coat of paint to the entire surface of the trim, using a brush or roller. Allow the paint to dry completely.
4. Apply a Second Coat of Paint
Once the first coat of paint is dry, apply a second coat to ensure a uniform finish. Allow the second coat to dry completely.
5. Touch Up
Inspect the trim for any imperfections or missed spots. Touch up any areas as needed with a small brush.
6. Caulk and Seal
To seal any gaps between the trim and the wall or door, apply a thin bead of caulk. Use a caulk gun and a smooth edge to apply the caulk evenly. Once the caulk is dry, touch up any areas as needed with a small brush and paint.
Installing Corner Moldings
Corner moldings are used to cover the gaps between the door jamb and the wall. They can be installed using the same basic steps as the other trim pieces.
1. Measure the length of the corner molding you need and cut it to size.
2. Apply a bead of caulk to the back of the molding.
3. Press the molding into place and hold it until the caulk dries.
4. Use a nail gun to secure the molding in place.
5. Fill any nail holes with caulk.
6. Paint the molding to match the rest of the trim.
7. Mitered Corners
If you are installing corner molding around a door with a mitered corner, you will need to cut the molding at a 45-degree angle. To do this, you can use a miter saw or a hand saw with a miter box.
Once you have cut the molding, apply a bead of caulk to the back of each piece and press them into place. Hold the molding in place until the caulk dries and then secure it with nails. Fill any nail holes with caulk and paint the molding to match the rest of the trim.
Mitered Corner Caulking Around the Trim
Caulking is the final touch to door trim installation, sealing any gaps and preventing moisture damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Clean the Surfaces: Wipe down the trim and adjacent surfaces with a damp cloth. Let them dry completely.
- Mask the Areas: Use painter’s tape to protect the trim and walls from caulk residue. Apply the tape along the edges of the trim.
- Cut the Caulk Tip: Cut the tip of the caulk tube at a 45-degree angle. The size of the bead depends on the gap to be filled.
- Insert the Caulk Tube: Load the caulk tube into a caulk gun. Ensure the nozzle is centered in the gap.
- Apply the Caulk: Starting at one end of the trim, squeeze the caulk gun trigger and slowly move it along the joint, applying a continuous bead.
- Smooth the Caulk: Use your finger or a caulk finishing tool to smooth the caulk bead evenly and remove any excess.
- Remove the Tape: Carefully remove the painter’s tape immediately after smoothing the caulk. Doing so prevents it from adhering to the cured caulk.
- Allow to Cure: Refer to the caulk manufacturer’s instructions for the specific curing time. Typically, it takes a few hours to several days.
Caulk Types and Selection:
Caulk Type Applications Silicone Caulk Exterior, moisture-prone areas Acrylic Latex Caulk Interior, paintable Polyurethane Caulk Exterior, high-flexibility joints Touching Up the Paint
Once the new trim is in place, you’ll need to touch up the paint. Here’s how:
- Remove any dust or debris from the surface of the trim.
- Apply a thin coat of primer to the exposed wood.
- Once the primer is dry, apply a thin coat of paint.
- Allow the paint to dry completely.
- Sand the painted surface lightly with fine-grit sandpaper.
- Apply a second coat of paint.
- Allow the paint to dry completely.
- Remove any excess paint from the surface of the trim.
- Touch up any imperfections in the paint with a small brush.
Tip: Use a paintbrush that is the same size as the trim. Apply thin, even coats of paint. Allow the paint to dry completely before sanding or applying another coat. Finishing Touches
1. **Caulk the Seams:** Apply a thin bead of paintable caulk along all the seams between the trim and the wall, and smooth it with your finger or a small tool.
2. **Paint the Trim:** You can paint the trim to match your walls or create a contrasting look. Use a high-quality paint and apply several thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
3. **Install Doorstop or Base Molding:** If desired, you can install a doorstop or base molding to cover the gap between the floor and the trim. This adds a finishing touch and helps to prevent drafts.
4. **Install Quarter Round:** Quarter round is a small molding that can be installed around the base of the door trim to cover the gap between the trim and the floor. It adds a decorative touch and helps to protect the trim from damage.
5. **Add Hardware:** Install any necessary hardware, such as doorknobs, deadbolts, or handles. Make sure the hardware matches the style of the trim and the rest of the room.
6. **Touch Up the Paint:** Once all the hardware is installed, touch up any areas where the paint has been chipped or scratched.
7. **Clean the Area:** Wipe down the trim and surrounding area with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
8. **Enjoy Your New Trim:** Step back and admire your newly replaced door trim! It will enhance the look and feel of your home for years to come.
9. **Additional Tips:**
– Use a level to ensure the trim is installed straight.
– Allow the caulk to dry completely before painting.
– Use a brush or small roller to apply paint evenly.
– If you’re not comfortable replacing the trim yourself, consider hiring a professional.Tools and Materials You’ll Need Instructions - New door trim
- Caulk
- Paint
- Paintbrush or roller
- Level
- Hammer
- Nails
- Doorstop or base molding (optional)
- Quarter round (optional)
- Doorknobs, deadbolts, or handles (optional)
- Remove the old door trim.
- Cut the new door trim to size.
- Nail the new door trim in place.
- Caulk the seams.
- Paint the trim.
- Install doorstop or base molding (optional).
- Install quarter round (optional).
- Add hardware (optional).
- Touch up the paint.
- Clean the area.
How To Replace Door Trim
Replacing door trim is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours. With the right tools and materials, you can give your doors a fresh, new look in no time.
To replace door trim, you will need the following:
- New door trim
- Measuring tape
- Miter saw
- Nail gun
- Hammer
- Nails
- Caulk
- Caulk gun
Once you have all of your materials, you can begin the process of replacing your door trim.
Step 1: Remove the old door trim
To remove the old door trim, start by carefully prying it away from the door frame with a pry bar. Be careful not to damage the door frame.
Step 2: Measure and cut the new door trim
Once the old door trim has been removed, you can begin measuring and cutting the new door trim. Measure the length of the door frame and cut the new door trim to the same length.
Step 3: Install the new door trim
To install the new door trim, simply place it over the door frame and nail it into place. Start by nailing the top piece of trim into place, then the sides, and finally the bottom.
Step 4: Caulk the door trim
Once the door trim has been installed, you can caulk the gaps between the trim and the door frame. This will help to seal out drafts and moisture.
People Also Ask About How To Replace Door Trim
How much does it cost to replace door trim?
The cost to replace door trim will vary depending on the type of trim you choose and the size of your door. However, you can expect to pay between $10 and $50 per door.
Can I replace door trim myself?
Yes, you can replace door trim yourself. It is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours.
How do I choose the right door trim?
When choosing door trim, consider the style of your home and the type of door you have. You can choose from a variety of materials, including wood, MDF, and PVC.
