Doors and Windows - Window trim retrofit

I am planning on installing trim around some existing windows. This is in a new house and they trimmed the windows with drywall except a simple stool and apron. My plan was to remove the drywall to the studs and install wood jams and a header as well as a new stool, apron and of course casing. I just want to make sure this is the right way to go about this. I plan on using 3 1/2“ fluted casing with solid corner blocks (this matches my fireplace surround).

In my living room I have 3 windows next to each other (about 11" between each) and was planning on making a continuous stool and apron but casing them separately. Do I sound like I am on the right path? Also when you use fluted casing what style trim would you use for the apron? Thanks in advance for the help.

Steve

You're on the right track. Remove the sheetrock from the window frame to finished wall. Replace it with the window stool across the bottom and 1/2" plywood -- whatever species you want, finished as you choose on the header and jambs. 3-1/2" fluted casing, block corners (no miters -- very easy!)

Personal preference (and I would have to SEE yours to be sure), but I am thinking that 3 seperate stools might look better than one continuous stool. Can you post a picture at a website like Yahoo!, Angelfire, etc. and put the URL to that site in here?

The apron? 1-5/8" beveled casing works. (Wide side up, to the stool.) Given the 3-1/2" fluted casing, I don't think it'll be too big, nor too small.

Below is a picture of the three windows in a row I plan on trimming out. The reason I thought about doing a continuous stool is there is only 10-11" between the windows and after the 3 1/2 casing that will only leave a few inches between the stool edges. If I did that it would be about 7" for the casing plus 1/2"-1” extra for the stool edges and would only leave about 2-3" between the stools. If you think that is enough and think it will look good I will go that way.

Also the 2nd picture shows the big window in my dining room. I plan on doing 5 1/4" fluted casing there as the window is much larger and I think it will be a more dramatic look. What do you think about that? I really appreciate the help!

http://www.lanability.com/painting/images/DCP_2881.JPG
http://www.lanability.com/painting/images/DCP_2880.JPG


Steve

Steve,

There is no "right" or "wrong" way -- it's whatever you think looks best.

What I'ld do at the 3 windows in the living room is buy an inexpensive board (good like finding THAT!!) long enough to span all 3 and notch it to fit as the stool will. Set it in place and look at it. Take pictures. Then cut it into 3 seperate stools, set them in place, and take more pictures. A utility 1X4 or 1X6 will do just fine, You'll be $8 or $10, and an hour cutting it up, but it will let you see it both ways.

Which ever way you thinks look the best, get the good stuff and go for it!

Sounds like a good plan on the big window in the dining room.

That is a good idea. I really appreciate all the help. I will post some pictures when I am done. Thanks!

Steve

Sometimes you just have to SEE things both ways to know which way you prefer.