Repairing Guides

how to repair exterior trim

by Maxie Hilpert Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Trim Repair: How to Fix and Revive Trim

  1. Start with a thorough cleaning. Soften old paint along the edges of trim and stained baseboards with alcohol. ...
  2. Scrape and sand badly damaged areas. Scrape away badly weathered finish. A carbide paint scraper removes the old finish much faster than sandpaper.
  3. Roughen the finish and fill small holes. Rub the wood with an abrasive pad to create a slightly roughened surface for the new finish. ...
  4. Apply stain to hide dings and scratches. Hide scratches, chips and worn away finish with a fresh dose of stain. ...
  5. Apply the fresh finish. Restore the shine with a fresh coat of polyurethane. Wipe on poly gives you a faster, smoother finish with less mess than brush-on poly.

Full Answer

How to fix the gaps in exterior trim?

Using a Shim

  1. Using a Shim If you don’t want to go through the trouble of reinstalling or replacing the trim molding and the gap is wide enough, consider cutting a small ...
  2. Using a Filler If the gap is small enough, you might be able to get away with simply filling it in with putty or another filler and painting over ...
  3. Reinstallation or Replacement

How to repaint exterior wood trim?

Tips for Painting Your Wooden Exterior Trim

  • Step #1: Paint Station Preparation. Set up a ladder so that you can access the trims safely. ...
  • Step #2: Exterior Trim Preparation. Scrape off peeling paint from the trim using a paint scraper. ...
  • Step #3: Prime. You need a good primer, especially when working outdoors! ...
  • Step #4: Paint. Allow the primer to dry for about 2 hours. ...

How can I repair exterior rubber trim?

  • 80 and 40-grit sandpaper for stripping.
  • 500 and 600-grit sandpaper for finishing.
  • Rubbing alcohol, and abrasive cleaner or stripper.
  • Utility blades.
  • Black Body filler (for deep scratches.)
  • High-quality black bumper polish.
  • Polishing rags (microfiber works best.)

How to replace exterior house trim?

  • Perform an Inspection
  • Inspect the corner trim at the top, bottom and edges, where water is most likely to get in. ...
  • Get Lumber Matching Your Existing Boards
  • Purchase new lumber to replace any rotted boards, matching the type, thickness and texture of the old boards as closely as possible. ...
  • Apply a Primer

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How do you repair rotted exterior wood trim?

0:025:08HOW TO REPAIR EXTERIOR ROTTED WOOD TRIM - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe're gonna be using bondo all-purpose putty it's good for all kinds of services wood drywallMoreWe're gonna be using bondo all-purpose putty it's good for all kinds of services wood drywall concrete masonry surfaces dries. Like a rock.

How do you replace rotted exterior trim?

0:529:16Repair Trim Rot (Skirt Board and Corner Board) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI then switch over to an oscillating multi-tool with the wood blade in it to make the cut throughMoreI then switch over to an oscillating multi-tool with the wood blade in it to make the cut through that line I start by just carefully edging the line with the blade.

How do you fix exterior molding?

Use exterior wood filler to fill and patch cracks in the trim itself as long as it is still structurally sound. First, rough up the surface with coarse sandpaper to ensure a good bond. Then apply wood filler with a putty knife. When it's hard and dry, sand it level with a medium- or fine-grit sandpaper.

How do you replace exterior trim in a house?

How to Replace Rotted House TrimPerform an Inspection. ... Get Lumber Matching Your Existing Boards. ... Apply a Primer. ... Take Off the Rotten Trim. ... Determine Whether the Rot Has Spread. ... Install New Trim. ... Add Trim Around Windows and Doors. ... Add a Metal Drip Edge.More items...

How much does it cost to replace exterior trim?

Installation or replacement of exterior trim costs $1,946 on average, with a typical range between $932 and $3,226. You may pay $350 for a small section replacement or up to $6,000 or more for installing or replacing exterior trim around a whole house.

Will Bondo stop wood rot?

Fortunately, it can be easily repaired with the right products. Bondo® Rotted Wood Restorer will solidify soft and spongy wood by penetrating into the wood surface to create a solid base and stop rot quickly.

How do you fill holes in exterior wood trim?

0:304:13How to Choose and Use Wood Filler | This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou can use a water-based wood filler right here just fill the hole. But you always want to overfillMoreYou can use a water-based wood filler right here just fill the hole. But you always want to overfill. The hole. So it it'll shrink.

How do you fix rotted wood on the side of a house?

1:1411:13Replacing your rotten wood siding! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou can take your flat bar put in there and twist it sideways a little bit. And that will pull it.MoreYou can take your flat bar put in there and twist it sideways a little bit. And that will pull it. Out. They have nails behind here through this into this so it's nailed across here into this piece.

How do you repair wood trim?

0:356:31The Holy Grail of Baseboard Repair!!! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTwo any kind of wood glue will work for this and then you're gonna need some wood filler i like thisMoreTwo any kind of wood glue will work for this and then you're gonna need some wood filler i like this stuff from the home depot it comes in a squeeze tube it's elmer.

What is the wood trim around a house called?

fascia. House trim is the material used to encase windows and doors, among other features, on a home's exterior, whereas house fascia is a horizontal or angled board that encloses the edge or face of the projecting eaves.

How do you repair rotted window trim?

0:594:42How to Repair Dry Rot in a Window Sill - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOn the side trim I wasn't able to cut all the way through so I'll use a chisel to remove material upMoreOn the side trim I wasn't able to cut all the way through so I'll use a chisel to remove material up to the cut line. Then slip a pry bar underneath. And snap off the unwanted wood.

How do you install exterior moldings?

0:001:10Mouldings installation - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTo add an exterior crown molding made out of pine to the exterior of a window proceed as followsMoreTo add an exterior crown molding made out of pine to the exterior of a window proceed as follows measure the width of the window. Including both blinds if any cut.

What is the best exterior trim material?

The most common woods for use on trim are cedar and redwood, because they naturally resist moisture and insect activity, making them longer lasting than other woods. The costs for these materials have been rising along with availability, however, which has led to many builders looking for less expensive alternatives.

How do you fix a rotted porch post?

3:437:27How to Repair a Rotted Porch Post | Ask This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd i also like the fact that i have a lot more surface right here to glue and screw the two piecesMoreAnd i also like the fact that i have a lot more surface right here to glue and screw the two pieces together that makes a lot of sense all right so now all i have to do is trace our patch.

How do you prepare exterior trim for painting?

0:285:09How To Paint Exterior Wood Trim - Ace Hardware - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThat is peeling away from the area then it's a good idea to take either sandpaper or sanding sponge.MoreThat is peeling away from the area then it's a good idea to take either sandpaper or sanding sponge. Or even an electric sander to sand down those areas nice and smooth.

Relevant Articles About Exterior Wood Trim

Wood trim around outside doors and windows can start to wear, warp and rot over time. This can not only look poor, however, but also trim in disrepair can permit water to obtain underneath and create more damage. While the components will take their toll, you can make fixings to and even change wood trim without the need for costly specialist help.

RELEVANT VIDEOS ABOUT REPAIR ROTTED EXTERIOR WOOD TRIM

Exterior Wood Trim Repair Exterior Wood Trim Repair Near Me Exterior Wood Window Trim Repair How Do You Repair Rotted Exterior Wood Trim? How To Repair Exterior Trim How To Repair Rotted Exterior Wood Trim Repair Rotted Exterior Wood Trim

How to get a scarf joint tight?

Leave it long until you get a tight joint, you may need to adjust the angle on the miter saw to get the scarf joint tight. Once tight prime the end grain and install some caulking in the joint before nailing it off. Place two nails an inch above the joint on the upper board to squeeze the boards tight.

Why is my nail sticking out of the corner board?

As you can see on the left my nail punch is sticking out of the corner board indicating rot. For the best appearance, trim, and moldings should run in one continuous strip without joints. When the area to cover is longer than your trim or molding, a joint is necessary.

Is paint a finishing coat?

Paint is merely a finishing coat, not a cure for a poor fit. The drawing below shows why it’s important to cut the “exterior” scarf joint properly. [Click to enlarge] When repairing trim try to think of how water drains using gravity. As water runs down the side of the house you do not want a joint that angled up.

How do I smooth out caulk?

Get your sponge and wet it. Smooth out the caulk by running the sponge over the area. Make sure that you do not accidentally remove the caulk which would again reveal the gaps. You can actually smooth it out using just your fingers, as well. Clean the area with the rags.

How to clean gaps in wood trim?

Using a stiff brush or putty knife, carefully clean the gaps between the wood of dirt, dust and debris. Avoid pulling the putty knife or brush towards you while within the gap to avoid damaging the trim and making the gap bigger. Clean in the direction of the gap.

How to fix scratches on wood?

Hide scratches, chips and worn away finish with a fresh dose of stain. Then wipe the woodwork with a clean rag to remove the excess stain. Let the stain dry overnight. Completely refinishing the area may be the only way to make flawless repairs to badly damaged doors, windows and moldings.

How to lighten a stain?

You can repeat the process to further lighten the stain. Wipe the bleached wood with a sponge and clear water. Then neutralize the oxalic acid by applying a solution of 3 tablespoons of borax to 1 gallon of water with a sponge. Finally, rinse the bleached wood with water again and let it dry overnight.

How to get rid of a sand stain on a carpet?

Mix the oxalic acid in a plastic container. Add 1 oz. of oxalic acid powder (about 2 tablespoons) to 1 cup of hot water and stir it until the powder dissolves. Then brush the solution onto the stain with a disposable sponge brush and let it work for 20 minutes. You can repeat the process to further lighten the stain.

How to get rid of excess polyurethane on wood?

Fold a cotton rag to create a pad. Then dip an edge of the pad into a container of wipe-on polyurethane and press it against the side to wring out the excess. Wipe the polyurethane onto the wood in long strokes in the direction of the wood grain as you would if you were using a brush.

How do I renew a stained wood baseboard?

The first step in renewing your woodwork and stained baseboards is cleaning it to remove grease and grime and create a contaminant-free surface for the new finish. Wash the woodwork with a TSP substitute.

How do I clean paint off wood trim?

Scrub with a sponge dipped in the cleaning solution. Then rinse with a spo nge and clear water and wipe off the wood with a dry rag. If there’s paint slopped onto the edges of your trim or spattered on the surface, now’s the time to clean it off.

Is it better to wipe on polyurethane or brush on polyurethane?

The final step in your trim renewal project is to apply a fresh coat of finish. Wipe-on polyurethane is a good choice because it’s fast and easy to apply. You simply wipe it on with a soft rag and let it dry.

Why is plastic trim deteriorating?

Over a period of time time, those oils degrade which in turn leads to the plastic deteriorating. Unlike paintwork, plastic trim pieces don’t have a protective clear coat. So, without this layer of defence, it will always be more susceptible to damage from the elements. The main causes of damage to car trim are UV rays from sunlight.

What is trim restorer?

Trim restorers and coatings are great products to have at hand which can provide excellent results from just a few minutes of work. Good quality plastic restorers will be absorbed by the plastic and break down the oxidation that causes the lightened and grey look.

What causes car trim to be brittle?

The main causes of damage to car trim are UV rays from sunlight. These harmful rays dehydrate the plastic and degrade it. If the plastic has been affected by ultraviolet rays, you may notice. Chalky appearance. The component surface becoming brittle. A color change on the surface of the plastic.

What is a Perl?

CarPro PERL is a water-based silicone-oxide all-purpose dressing from CarPro. The name PERL is an acronym meaning P lastic, E ngine, R ubber and L eather and it’s capable of dressing all of these surfaces, with minimal shine whilst providing UV protection.

How to restore plastic trim?

Restoring the trim with a heat gun. In theory, it is possible to restore the appearance of the plastic by using a heat gun. By gently heating the plastic, you’re bringing out the oils within the material, restoring the color. I have a few issues with this approach and generally don’t recommend it to anyone.

Why does my car trim fade?

Another cause of fading trim is exposure to harsh weather combined with other contaminants from the road. As your drive your vehicle, surface water which can contain grime and other materials can get thrown onto the surface of the plastics. Over time, this also harms their appearance.

How long does C4 last?

What makes C4 slightly different to using something like PERL, is that C4 actually forms a bond with the plastic and can leave results that last up to 2 years before another application is needed. The coating swaps part of its molecular structure with the surface molecules of your car’s trim.

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