How Much Does It Cost to Install Window Trim? [2025 Data]

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.

The cost to install window trim ranges from $350 to $1,600 per window, with an average project cost of $900. Homeowners can expect to pay $4 to $12 per linear foot, depending on the trim material and window size. Factors such as labor, customization, and regional pricing can impact your total investment.

Installing new window trim not only frames your windows with style but also helps protect your home from drafts and moisture. In this guide, we’ll break down the main price factors, compare DIY to professional installation, and offer practical tips to help you budget for your project.

Cost by Size of Window Trim

The quantity and size of your windows significantly impact the overall cost of installing window trim. Larger windows require more trim material and additional labor, especially if they have unique shapes or features. Standard windows are the most straightforward, while oversized, bay, bow, or specialty-shaped windows can drive up costs due to custom fitting and more complex installation.

When installing trim on multiple windows at once, some contractors may offer bulk pricing or discounts, reducing the per-window cost. Bay and bow windows, with their curved or angled layouts, often require custom trim profiles and take more time to install, resulting in higher costs. Specialty windows, such as those with arches or custom shapes, are the most costly due to the need for precise measurement and fabrication.

Measuring for window trim installation is essential for accurate cost estimation. To determine the linear feet of trim needed, measure the perimeter of each window (add all four sides), then multiply by the number of windows. Accurate measurements help prevent costly mistakes, ensure you order enough material, and avoid extra labor charges for last-minute adjustments.

Window Trim Installation Cost Factors

Several key factors influence the cost of installing window trim, including labor fees, material upgrades, and site conditions. Understanding these elements helps you anticipate your final bill and plan accordingly.

Labor

Window trim installation is handled by finish carpenters, general contractors, or specialty trim installers. Labor costs can vary widely based on experience and location. Minimum service fees often start at $75 to $150 per visit, with hourly rates ranging from $40 to $100 per hour. Some pros charge by the linear foot or per window—expect to pay $2 to $7 per linear foot for labor alone.

Labor rates are higher in urban areas with a high cost of living, while rural regions may offer more affordable pricing. Complex projects—such as installing intricate trim profiles, working on multiple windows, or reaching high or hard-to-access windows—require more time and skill, increasing the total labor cost.

Permits

Permits are not always required for window trim installation, but you may need one if you live in a historic district or are altering the exterior appearance of your home. Permit costs range from $25 to $150, depending on your municipality. Always check with your local building department or HOA to confirm permit requirements before starting your project.

Additional Features

Upgrading to decorative or custom trim profiles, such as crown molding, rosettes, or plinth blocks, will increase the total cost of installing window trim. Integrated window sills, aprons, or enhanced casing also add to material and labor expenses. Painting, staining, or finishing the trim is an extra step, with professional finishing costing $2 to $6 per linear foot.

For exterior trim, caulking, sealing, and weatherproofing are essential to protect against moisture and drafts. If the project includes installing insulation or a moisture barrier behind the trim, expect added costs for materials and labor.

Installation Add-Ons

Several other factors can impact your window trim installation cost:

• Project complexity: More windows, unusual shapes, or multi-story access increase time and cost.

• Accessibility: Hard-to-reach windows or those located on upper floors may require the use of ladders or scaffolding.

• Site preparation: Removing old trim, repairing walls, disposing of debris, and covering delivery fees may be extra.

• Post-construction cleanup: Some pros charge for cleanup, especially for large jobs.

• Design or consultation fees: Custom trim projects may require design input or consultations.

• Inspection costs: Required by some local codes or HOAs for exterior work.

Additional Costs to Consider

Beyond materials and labor, there are additional costs that homeowners should consider when budgeting for window trim installation.

Warranties

Many manufacturers and installers offer warranties covering materials, workmanship, or finish. Standard warranties are often included in the price, but extended or premium options can increase your total cost. Warranties can offer peace of mind by protecting against defects or premature wear.

Maintenance

Routine cleaning and care vary depending on the material. Wood trim should be inspected and maintained every few years, while vinyl, composite, and aluminum trims are lower maintenance. Expect to repaint or reseal wood trim every five to seven years, with costs ranging from $1 to $3 per linear foot. Watch for signs of wear, such as peeling paint, soft spots, or visible gaps.

Taxes

Sales tax on materials and labor applies in most states and can range from 5% to 10%. These rates vary by region, so check your local tax policies when budgeting for your project.

Insurance

Homeowners' insurance may cover damage to window trim caused by storms, accidents, or other covered events. Upgrading your trim rarely affects your premiums, but check with your insurer if you’re making significant exterior changes.

DIY Window Trim Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

Choosing between DIY and professional installation comes down to your comfort with tools, available time, and the complexity of your project.

DIYers can expect to pay $2 to $6 per linear foot for trim materials, depending on the type chosen. Necessary tools include a miter saw, nail gun, level, tape measure, caulk, and finishing supplies, with a starter tool kit costing $100 to $300. 

Accurate measuring, cutting, and finishing require moderate to advanced skills. Plan for one to two hours per window for basic installations, with more time required for intricate profiles or larger windows. Risks include improper fit, gaps, potential water intrusion, and less professional results, which can reduce energy efficiency or curb appeal.

Hiring a professional interior painter near you costs more upfront, but you benefit from their expertise and efficiency. While DIY may save on labor, mistakes can lead to higher costs if you need a pro to fix errors. It’s best to hire a professional for complex trim profiles, exterior windows, or historic homes, where precision and compliance matter most.

Window Trim Replacement vs. Repair

When your window trim shows signs of wear, deciding between repair and replacement can impact both your budget and the appearance of your home.

Minor issues, such as loose trim, small cracks, or surface wear, can often be easily repaired. Replacement is recommended for extensive rot, water damage, outdated profiles, or if previous repairs have failed. If your trim is warped, crumbling, or causing energy loss, replacement is a better investment.

Minor repairs, such as patching, repainting, or recaulking, cost between $50 and $150 per window. Full window replacement costs $350 to $1,200 per window, depending on the materials and labor required. Use the 50% rule: if repair costs reach or exceed half the price of replacement, it’s best to replace.

If your trim is under warranty, repairs or replacement may be covered. Older trim outside the warranty period is more likely to need complete replacement, especially if it shows signs of rot or widespread damage.

New window trim can dramatically refresh your home’s look, adding modern style and appeal. While repairs may solve immediate issues, replacement delivers a more noticeable boost to curb appeal and resale value.

Does Window Trim Installation Add Value to Your Home?

Upgrading your window trim is more than a cosmetic project—it can add measurable value and comfort to your home.

The return on investment for new window trim ranges depending on the material and quality. Attractive, well-installed trim makes a strong impression on buyers and can help your home stand out in the market.

Window trim installation offers a moderate ROI compared to other upgrades like new doors, siding, or exterior painting. While not as high-impact as a major remodel, it’s a cost-effective way to refresh both interior and exterior spaces.

Tips to Reduce Window Trim Installation Costs

Here are a few practical tips to reduce the cost of window trim installation:

• Get multiple quotes from local pros to compare pricing.

• Choose standard trim profiles and materials for budget-friendly options.

• Consider painting or finishing the trim yourself to save on labor costs.

• Schedule installation during off-peak seasons to receive discounts.

• Remove old trim yourself if you have the skills and tools.

• Buy materials in bulk if installing trim on multiple windows.

• Maintain trim regularly to avoid costly repairs or replacements.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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