Installing Molding Around An External Door?

This video by Mark Donovan of https://homeadditionplus.com provides step-by-step instructions on installing vinyl door trim (brickmold) on the exterior door. Trimming around the door gives a polished look to any doorway and not only elevates the home’s visual appeal but also improves insulation and protects the door frame from wear and tear. The guide covers the process of replacing exterior door trim, from removing old trim to installing new PVC components.

Installing door trim can improve the appearance of interior spaces by bridging the gap between the door jamb (frame from which the door is hinged) and where the latch is. Designer and DIY-er Anna Smith of Annabode provides a step-by-step tutorial on how to install exterior trim around a front door.

To start, remove existing exterior door trim, scrape off any extra paint, measure for the header miter ends, glue and tape, cut and attach, back-flash with flexible flashing to seal the joint between the jamb and the trim, and use a combination square to mark a consistent reveal of 1/8 to 1/4 inch around the entire door frame. Snug up the middle of the jamb and shim all of the snug screws tight, checking the edges on the inside to ensure the door is centered in the frame.

How to seal an external door frame?

To seal an exterior door, ensure there are no gaps around the frame and fill them with insulation foam. Avoid applying too much foam as it may apply pressure on the frame. For a smooth finish, add silicone or cement around the outside, sand it smooth, and paint it to look neat.

New external door frames in the UK typically come with a weather seal pre-equipped, which should last for a while but may warp or crack over time. A good quality rubber door seal should last for at least 10 years, but will eventually decay.

Replacement of the seal is inexpensive and easy to fit, costing between £5 and £15, depending on the size and thickness. Just pop the old one out and slide the new one in.

Can you trim external doors?

External doors can be trimmed based on manufacturer recommendations, with XL Joinery doors allowing up to 10mm on each side and LPD doors limiting it to 3mm. However, the answer to whether you can trim doors is not straightforward as manufacturers and suppliers may specify different trimming tolerances, especially for fire doors. Even internal doors from the same manufacturer may have different trim tolerances. It is recommended to consult a carpenter or consult a professional if you plan to trim a door, as it can be costly and fiddly.

Can you trim down an exterior door?

When ordering a shorter prehung exterior door, it is typically easiest to order from a lumberyard. However, it is possible to shorten the unit yourself, typically allowing wood doors to be trimmed by 1⁄2 in. at the top and 1-1⁄2 in. at the bottom. To do this, disassemble the unit, remove the door from its frame, place it on a surface that won’t scratch the door, and remove the door-bottom weatherstripping.

Mark the cut on each edge of the door and clamp a shooting board to the door, positioning the clamps with their long ends down to avoid interference with the saw. Place a block under each clamp to protect the other side of the door.

How to add trim around front door?

This article provides instructions on installing exterior door trim around a doorway for a quick, easy, and cost-effective way to add curb appeal. The process involves removing existing brick molding, scraping off excess paint, measuring the header, mitering ends, gluing and taping, cutting and attaching casing, setting the header in place, and setting nails and caulk. The skill level is intermediate, and the estimated cost is $3 to $6 per linear foot. Adding urethane foam molding offers a wide range of affordable styles to choose from.

What is the trim around an exterior door called?

Brick mould is an exterior casing trim that conceals the gap between a window or door frame and the exterior wall surface. It is thicker than most interior casing trim profiles and provides a buffer between the window/door and surrounding cladding. Brick mould can be made of wood, aluminum, PVC, fiberglass, or composite materials. Weather-stripping seals gaps between a door frame and closed-door panel, typically made of resilient materials like silicone, rubber, or foam. A door sweep creates a weather-resistant barrier between a door panel and sill.

How to seal exterior door trim?

To apply sealant to a door frame, use a caulk tool or your finger to tool the bead until it’s smooth. Work in sections, running a bead along one side and continuing on the next. If you’re experiencing limited access, contact the site owner for assistance. If you’re a WordPress user with administrative privileges, enter your email address and click “Send” to regain access. An email will be sent to you to help you regain access.

How to fix gap between door and frame when closed?

To install a shim, open the door and place a support or wedge under it to relieve tension. Remove the hinge screws and insert the shim between the hinge leaf and the door. Reattach the hinge leaf with screws. Inspect the opening for general condition and ensure the frame opening width is consistent from top to bottom. If the gap is not consistent, it may be due to incorrect frame installation, causing severe door and hardware problems. This manual does not address improper frame installation.

What is door casing vs trim?

Trim and casing molding are often used interchangeably in home improvement, but they are distinct terms. Trim refers to all molding within a home, while casing is a specific type of trim that serves a specific aesthetic and functional purpose. This article delves into interior casing, discussing its purpose, door casing profiles, and window casing trim profiles. Casing moulding is the most visible trim inside a room, as it covers the gap between the drywall and the window or door frame, creating an aesthetically pleasing final look. It is generally thicker than base moulding and is often the most visible trim. Design tips and installation and maintenance of casings are also discussed.

What material is best for trimming an exterior door?

The appearance of trim in a home is crucial, as it interacts with the door and siding. Plastic trims like vinyl have wood grain appearance but have less appealing molded edges, making them less appealing. Aluminum and steel trims can develop a chalky paint surface over time, making it difficult to create a wood-look trim that looks right for the design. Natural wood trim is a versatile material that can be painted to match any siding, but it must resist insect activity and rot. Cedar is an option, but it often has issues with bleed-through and staining the trim’s color. Preservative-treated trim, like Belco’s XT trim, provides the desired appearance and performance.

What is the best material for exterior door trim?

Natural wood trim is a versatile material that can be painted to match any siding and is available in multiple sizes. However, it is essential to select a wood that resists insect activity and rot. Cedar is a popular option, but it can cause issues with bleed-through and staining. Preservative-treated trim like Belco’s XT trim offers better appearance and performance. The exterior door trim should be durable and resistant to rot and termites over time. Vinyl, like vinyl, can warp in hot weather and become brittle and crack in cold weather. This can lead to problems for homeowners and calls for troubleshooting and fixing.

How do you put moulding on a plain door?

This DIY project involves measuring and marking a design, cutting molding, gluing and nailing trim to the door, filling nail holes and caulk, and priming and painting the door. Flat panel doors can be spruced up by adding molding. The project was inspired by the Ikea Alex Drawer Hack, where the author added trim molding to the drawer fronts. This DIY project is a fun weekend DIY that can make interior doors look brand new. The post may contain affiliate links, which means the author may receive a commission if you purchase through their links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the disclaimer for more information.