How To Install Interior Door Trim

How to Install Interior Door Trim: A Step-by-Step Guide for a Professional Finish

Interior door trim is the finishing touch that completes the look of a door and adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room. Whether you're installing a new door or replacing old, worn-out trim, the process is relatively straightforward and can be completed in a few simple steps. ### Tools and Materials: - Measuring tape - Pencil - Miter saw or hand saw - Sander - Wood filler - Caulk gun - Painter's tape - Safety glasses - Gloves ### Step 1: Measure and Cut the Trim Pieces 1. Measure the width of the door frame from the inside edge of one jamb to the inside edge of the other jamb. 2. Subtract 1/8 inch from this measurement to allow for a small gap between the trim and the door frame. 3. Cut two pieces of trim to this length using a miter saw or a hand saw. 4. Measure the height of the door frame from the top of the head jamb to the bottom of the door jamb. 5. Subtract 1/8 inch from this measurement to allow for a small gap between the trim and the door frame. 6. Cut two pieces of trim to this length using a miter saw or a hand saw. ### Step 2: Cut Miter Joints 1. Place the two pieces of trim that will form the top and bottom of the door frame together at a 45-degree angle. 2. Use a pencil to mark the point where the two pieces of trim intersect. 3. Move the saw blade to the 45-degree angle setting. 4. Cut along the marked line to create a miter joint. 5. Repeat this process to create a miter joint on the other side of the door frame. ### Step 3: Dry Fit the Trim Pieces 1. Place the trim pieces in the door frame to ensure they fit properly. 2. Make any necessary adjustments to the miter joints or the length of the trim pieces. 3. If the trim pieces fit correctly, remove them from the door frame. ### Step 4: Fill Gaps and Sand the Trim 1. Apply a thin layer of wood filler to any gaps or imperfections in the miter joints. 2. Let the wood filler dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. 3. Sand the wood filler until it is smooth and flush with the surface of the trim. ### Step 5: Apply Caulk 1. Apply a thin bead of caulk to the back of the trim pieces, focusing on the miter joints and any areas where the trim meets the door frame. 2. Use a wet finger to smooth out the caulk and remove any excess. ### Step 6: Nail the Trim Pieces in Place 1. Position the trim pieces in the door frame and align them with the pencil marks. 2. Drive 1 1/4-inch finishing nails through the trim and into the door frame at an angle. 3. Space the nails about 12 inches apart. ### Step 7: Paint or Stain the Trim 1. If desired, paint or stain the trim to match the color of the door and the surrounding walls. 2. Allow the paint or stain to dry completely before reattaching the door. By following these steps, you'll be able to install interior door trim like a professional, giving your doors a clean, polished look that will enhance the beauty of your home.