Expert: Thomas Buford - 7/5/2006

Question
Hi; I am in the middle of redoing my kitchen and would like to make new frames for my kitchen windows. I have a miter but I have never used it before and I was told that I had to have one to make my new frames. I have looked all over as to step by step instructions as to how to make the frames for my kitchen windows can you let me know how to make them or tell me what is the best thing to do. The old frames are no good and I would really like to put some oversized framing around my windows. Thanks---Mary

Answer
Mary,

I assume you are working on an all wood window. I believe you are referring to the window casing not the frame (?). The frame is the part that holds the operating or fixed section(s) of window (sash).

The casing is typically nailed into the house structural frame and the window frame. Though you will not see the nails they are usually buried in the wood and under paint. If this is a newer window the casing might just be nailed to the window frame. If you chip or crack the frame a bit use bondo to fill the damage.

Use a pry bar to pull the old casing off. If it comes off whole you can use it as a template for the new casing. Repair the wall if needed. Cut (and I paint) the new casing and nail around the window. Fill the nail holes and touch up paint the casing and wall.

If the wall is not flat you might need to shim under some pieces and use painter's caulk to fill the gap between the casing and the wall.

If you encounter anything that does not look or sound like what I describe stop and get additional information.

Thomas