Key Takeaways
- You can choose from several window trim styles to fit different home types, including Craftsman-style and modern.
- When replacing trim, consider the home’s architecture, cost, and interior design goals.
- On average, installing window trim costs around $760 for materials and labor.
As with types of windows, homeowners have several different window trim styles to choose from. To select the right one, consider factors such as the trim’s appearance, how it fits within the provided space, and cost. For example, a Colonial style is perfect for historic homes, while modern trim is better suited for contemporary houses — and there are plenty of options in between.
Exterior window trim enhances your home’s curb appeal and keeps the elements out, while interior window trim complements the home’s interior design. Replacing or installing window trim generally costs around $760 on average, or $1–$15 per linear foot. The exact price depends on the style and the average cost of labor in your area, as well as the window’s type, location, and size.
While a DIY route might save you some cash on labor, adding interior window trim isn’t as easy as it seems. “Even though DIY guides show carpentry is something everyone can do — it’s mitering corners, stacking them straight, adding window stops and sills — as a homeowner, it requires a lot of skill,” said Nicky Ricciardi, owner of HPM Craftsmen in Holmes, New York.
Below, we’ve outlined some of the most popular window trim styles, common materials, and their related costs, along with some tips for deciding whether to tackle this home improvement project yourself or hire a professional.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Costs in this article are sourced from contractor estimates used by Angi and HomeAdvisor.
What Is Window Trim?
Window trim is the framing around the exterior and interior of a window, which can be decorative, functional, or both. It creates a polished look for your home while covering the gaps between the window frame and the wall.
Interior window trim is usually decorative, with styles ranging from simple modern designs to ornate traditional profiles. Weather-resistant exterior window trim focuses more on function — it keeps air drafts and moisture out of your home — but it can also improve curb appeal if you choose a style that complements your architecture.
Window Trim Vs. Casing
The window casing is a part of the window trim. It specifically refers to the molding that covers the joints between the window frame and the wall. Window trim refers to all the finished pieces surrounding the window, including the casing, aprons, sills, headers, and millwork.
Popular Window Trim Styles
Here are some of the most popular window trim styles you can consider for your home, whether you’re going for traditional, modern, or something in between.
Craftsman Trim
You’ll often find Craftsman trim in Craftsman, bungalow, and Prairie-style homes. Inspired by 20th-century Craftsman architecture, this trim features a thick, prominent header, flat vertical sides, and an apron under the windowsill. Homeowners can choose from basic and detailed designs, and it’s perfect for those who love a handcrafted appearance and solid-wood interior.
Craftsman-style trim materials often cost between $1 and $10 per linear foot. You can opt to paint or stain the trim, which adds an additional $1–$3 per linear foot to the final price.
Colonial Trim
Colonial trim is best suited for traditional and historic homes, as it mimics the designs found in 18th-century American architecture. It’s highly decorative, featuring detailed symmetrical molding with curved or fluted elements, beaded edges, or rosettes. Homeowners often pair white Colonial window trim with matching baseboards and crown moldings.
Colonial designs tend to cost between $1 and $10 per linear foot, with more ornate designs on the higher end.
Modern Trim
For those looking for a minimalist design, modern or contemporary window trim fits the bill. With clean lines and little to no decorative molding, it sits flush against the wall, blending into the interior while drawing attention to the window — and the exterior view.
Modern window trim has few architectural details, making it one of the least expensive options at $1–$8 per linear foot on average.
Farmhouse Trim
The flat stock lumber, minimal profiles, clean corners, and bold designs of farmhouse trim make a statement against light-colored walls.
Farmhouses come in a variety of styles, so homeowners can choose from several farmhouse window trim designs, colors, and textures. You might opt for a classic white, or you can go with stained wood for a more rustic appearance. Some homeowners even paint their farmhouse trim black, which pairs well with the modern home.
No Trim
Also known as a drywall return or minimalist window finish, a trimless window design offers a clean appearance that complements modern, industrial, and contemporary interiors. As with modern trim, no trim highlights the window and the exterior view, creating a seamless wall-to-window transition and making interior spaces appear larger.
“It’s entirely an aesthetic,” Ricciardi said. “But, in the Northeast, we’re not seeing much of that — it doesn’t match the style of the houses here.” However, she added that if you’re leaning toward a modern home design, you should consider going trimless.
While you don’t have to pay for materials, paint, or stain, trimless designs call for precise drywall work. Depending on labor prices in your area, this could offset the cost savings on materials.
Materials and Costs of Window Trim
You can choose from a variety of different materials for interior and exterior window trim. While your desired design may demand a specific material, there’s often some wiggle room.
For example, if you’d like a wood trim, you have plenty of options, from pine to cedar, at different price points. Softwood costs between $0.60 and $7 per linear foot on average, while hardwood costs $0.75–$10. Reclaimed wood is slightly more expensive, at $1.25–$12. You’ll pay a premium for exotic types at $10–$45.
Here’s a closer look at some of the most common materials for window trim:
| Trim Material | Average Cost per Linear Foot (Excluding Labor) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) | $1–$3.50 | Consistent easy-to-paint design Best for modern and Colonial homes Not moisture-resistant |
| Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) | $0.50–$5 | Waterproof Paintable with prep Low maintenance |
| Fiber cement | $0.70–$5.50 | Highly durable exterior trim Fire-resistant Difficult to install |
| Polyurethane foam | $2–$6 | Allows for intricate profiles Moisture- and pest-resistant Easy to dent |
| Vinyl | $0.80–$30 | Won’t rot or warp Comes in factory-finished colors Limited design options |
| Wood | $0.60–$45 | Customizable Ideal for many home styles Can warp due to humidity |
DIY Vs. Pro Installation
Handy homeowners can install their own window trim, which could save hundreds in labor costs. Some very basic designs even make this DIY project beginner-friendly, as long as you have some skills in carpentry.
To remove the old trim and install the new trim, you’ll need:
- Utility knife
- Hammer
- Pry bar
- Miter saw
- Nail gun
- Level
- Tape measure
- Caulk
Certain designs and materials may call for additional tools.
However, in most cases, adding trim is best left to the professionals, especially if you’re dealing with detailed or historic trim and arched or specialty windows. You’ll also want to call a pro if you choose a high-end trim, as DIY mistakes can be costly. When you’re working with complicated designs, you’re cutting multiple pieces on a miter and they all have to line up correctly, Ricciardi explained.
Homeowners can expect to pay $65–$105 per hour on average for professional installation — the exact price depends on your area’s cost of living. You’ll spend extra, between $50 and $150, if you’re removing old trim.
How To Choose the Right Style for Your Home
Selecting the best window trim style for your home isn’t always straightforward. Start by considering these factors:
- Home’s architecture: Certain trim styles complement certain home designs. Choosing the wrong type causes the home’s architectural features to clash.
- Existing molding: Does your home already have existing trim? Opt for a window trim that matches for a cohesive design.
- Window size: Oversize trim overwhelms a smaller window, while thin trim makes a larger window appear as if it’s floating. Find a balance between your trim’s size and style with your window’s size.
- Window placement: Tight space and thick trim crowd a room. Consider how close it will be to doors, corners, ceilings, and furniture. Labor for a skylight’s trim will also cost more than a casement’s trim.
- Interior design goals: Will your trim be a focal point? Or do you want it to blend in with the wall and window?
- Budget: Trim made of PVC is less costly, while exotic woods are one of the most expensive options. You’ll also pay more for ornate designs.
When choosing interior window trim, Ricciardi recommends keeping the functionality and aesthetic for the rest of the house in mind, as well as any features you may like, including a windowsill. “Even though we want to keep window trim consistent throughout the house, there are some options to change the trim in select rooms, such as bathrooms,” she added.
Repairing Window Trim
Moisture, wear and tear, and time can all affect exterior window trim. Common signs you’ll need to conduct repairs include:
- Bubbling finish
- Cracks
- Discoloration
- Gaps between the trim and wall or window
- Loose trim
- Mold and mildew
- Peeling paint
- Splits
- Spongy or soft texture
- Swelling
- Warping
How you approach the repairs should depend on the type of damage and its extent. If you’re only replacing small sections, you can often tackle it yourself with minimal costs. However, if the damage is extensive or you have a customized design, you likely need to replace the entire window trim.
To keep damage at bay, clean the window and exterior regularly, inspect for pests and water infiltration, and touch up any paint or stains as needed. Use caulk to seal cracks and control moisture to extend the trim’s lifespan.
For interior trim, Ricciardi stated, “I think window trim should always be replaced with your windows. There’s no reason to change it unless you’re adjusting the architectural style of your home.”
Next Steps
The right window trim designs enhance your home’s appearance while keeping moisture, pests, and drafts out, improving energy efficiency. Consider factors such as your architecture, budget, and design goals to determine which style best suits your needs. If you’re installing new energy-efficient windows, it’s the perfect opportunity to add a window trim that speaks to you.
If you’ve gone through your options and can’t decide on the best window trim style for your home, it’s time to talk to a window professional or interior designer. Use the form below to connect to a pro.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
FAQs About Window Trim Styles
Should the interior window trim match my baseboards/door trim?
While you don’t have to match your interior window trim to your baseboards or door trim, we recommend coordinating them in most cases. By matching the design, you create a cohesive look and a unified architectural style that complements your entire home.
However, you can opt not to match the trim if you want to use complementary styles, create layered textures, or highlight certain features. In some rooms, such as bathrooms or kitchens, some homeowners match the window trim with the cabinets or tile rather than the baseboards.
If you choose to mix and match your trim styles, go in with a game plan. While it can provide a bold and custom look, if you don’t have a strategy, you may not achieve the desired appearance.
How much does it cost to replace window trim?
On average, you’ll pay between $321 and $1,200 to replace window trim. The total price depends on the material, style, and labor costs. PVC is one of the most affordable materials, starting at $0.50 per linear foot on average, excluding labor. While wood starts at $0.60 per linear foot, exotic lumber can cost up to $45 per linear foot.
If you hire a professional installer, you can expect to pay between $65 and $105 per hour. You could save hundreds of dollars by opting for a DIY installation, but many homeowners prefer to hire a professional.
Your trim’s design also impacts the total cost. If you select an ornate Colonial or Victorian style, you’ll pay much more than if you went for a minimalist modern trim. Victorian-style trim costs up to $15 per linear foot, while modern window trim costs between $1 and $8 per linear foot.
What’s the most low-maintenance window trim material?
PVC is one low-maintenance window trim option, as it’s moisture-, fire-, and pest-resistant. With regular cleaning, PVC trim can last more than 30 years before needing replacement. You can also paint PVC with specialty paints and proper preparation.
Vinyl is also resistant to moisture, rot, and insects. However, you can’t paint vinyl. Instead, it comes in select factory-finished colors. In most cases, both vinyl and PVC are affordable options, but some vinyl styles can cost up to $30 per linear foot.
Fiber cement is another low-maintenance option. When it’s properly maintained, it can last up to 50 years. Fiber cement performs well under a variety of harsh conditions, but it’s more difficult to install and costs more than PVC.
Should interior and exterior trims match?
No, in most homes, interior and exterior trims don’t match exactly. Instead, aim to complement the style, colors, and materials of their respective spaces while maintaining consistency in the design. For example, if you opt for a simple and modern design outside, your interior should also feature a simple and modern trim design.
In addition, exterior and interior window trims serve different functions. Exterior trim can withstand the elements, including moisture, UV rays, heat, and cold. As a result, you want to use durable materials with bold or contrasting colors to improve your home’s curb appeal.
Interior trim contributes to a room’s design. It often matches the walls, baseboards, doors, crown molding, or other aspects to create a seamless design.
