The trim surrounding a window is referred to as window casing. Adding the right casing to a window will create a finished look that instantly gives any room charm. Window casings can be made from simple pieces of lumber, or they may be made from exquisite bits of crown molding.
Homeowners who wish to create a historic or artistic room may want to seek custom window casings. These casings can be purchased from woodworkers who specialize in intricate molding and embossing. Those homeowners who simply want to cover windows with customary casings will find that almost all home hardware stores carry stock casings that will fit nearly every type of window.
Most kinds of window casings are made from wood, though other materials are becoming quite popular. Casings made from bamboo, pressboard, hardwood veneer, and extruded plastic may also be purchased. Plaster casings can also be acquired, though these are far more costly than any other material, and are best suited for historic renovations.
The type of window casing that is chosen will greatly change the look of a room. While standard casings are ideal for rooms that do not need additional embellishing, elaborate casings are perfect for any room that will benefit from additional design. In fact, it is not uncommon for an interior designer to base an entire room around unique casings.
Traditional casings have four corners that meet neatly, and they are generally made from one piece of wood. Corner block casings are similar to traditional casings, only instead of four neat corners, a large block of wood is placed upon each corner. The third type of standard casing includes a top and bottom board that stick out from the window creating a top and bottom window ledge.
While it is not necessary to paint window casing, adding a bright coat of white paint to casings will help them stand out. This technique only works on wooden casings, though the same look can be achieved by purchasing plaster ones. In addition to enhancing the look of a room, window casing also serves a practical purpose.
When windows and doors are installed, there is often a gap between the new installation and a room's drywall. This gap is not aesthetically appealing, which is why window casings were originally used. Today, casings have come a long way from their humble flat board beginnings, though they still hide drywall gaps with ease.
