A Very Simple DIY that can Add Home Value

One of the benefits of homeownership in Omaha is that you have the ability to make improvements to your property and increase its value. Some home improvements cost more than others and require the help of a trained expert. But there are some simple fixes that you can do yourself in your home that can add some value. One of those simple projects is adding decorative casing around your windows.

Materials you will need

casing to frame out your window

miter saw to make the proper angled cuts

finish nails to hold the casing in place

nail punch or gun for the finish nails

caulk to smooth things out

paint to complete the look

and a pencil

How to Get Started

Measure the window perimeter and the width of the sill overhang. The sill is the wooden trim along the bottom of the window.

Buy a casing that fits and doesn't hang over the overhang of the window sill. You want the width of the casing to be the same width as the distance from the edge of the window opening to the end of the window sill.

Place the first piece to fit the window. Place the casing on the window sill overhang and run it along the window opening to the top. Mark where the top of the window opening is on the casing.

Now it's time to cut the casing to the proper size for the side of the window. Cut the first piece of side casing at a 45-degree angle on the top end with the help of the angle markings on the miter saw so that the lowest part of the slant meets up with the corner of the window opening. 

The next step is to cut the other side piece of the window casing by measuring it in the same way you did the first side but making the 45-degree angle cut slant in the opposite direction. 

Now it is time to place the left side of the window casing on the window. Only secure the left side with your finish nails to the wall around the window until after you cut the top piece. 

Once the left side is secure in place around the window, take a piece of casing for the top and cut a 45-degree angle to meet up with the top of the left side casing. Hold this piece in place to fit with the side casing and bring back your right side casing. Hold it in place over the right side of the top piece and mark where the angle needs to be cut with a pencil. This will form a proper mitered angle.

Now use finish nails to hold the top and right side pieces in place. When they are in place it is time to grab the caulk and fill the cracks where the cuts were made (where the pieces meet) and the nail holes. 

Once the caulk is dry, it is time to paint out your new window trim and then stand back and enjoy your work. 

This simple do-it-yourself project not only improves the look of the windows in your home it also increases the value while protecting the drywall edges around your windows from dings and crumbling. And it only takes a couple of hours per window depending upon the size of each window.

For more information on simple improvements you can do on your own to improve your home's value and the look of your home to get it ready to sell please contact us anytime. We are happy to help you sell your Omaha home with the best success.