This might be a silly question, but when you get replacement windows, do they also replace the inside trim (the molding around the window inside the house)? Or do they usually keep the existing one?
I have some nice wood trim around my current windows that I’d hate to lose. But if it has to come off for the new windows to go in, will they put it back? Or do I need new trim?
Basically, should I anticipate any carpentry work on the interior beyond just the window itself?
@geek888 – Not a silly question at all! It actually depends on the installation method and how your old windows were installed:
For many modern replacement window installations (especially in Florida with block construction), the new windows are made to fit into the existing opening without removing a lot of interior trim. In my experience, the crew will carefully pry off the interior trim (casing) if needed, then put it back on after the new window is secured. If they’re careful, you can keep all your old trim. You might have some small nail holes to putty and a bit of touch-up paint, but that’s about it.
In one of my installs, they didn’t have to remove the interior trim at all because the windows were installed from the outside (they broke out the old metal frames and popped the new vinyl ones in place, securing through the sides). They just caulked along the inside where the frame meets the trim. Ask your installer what their approach is.
However, if your current windows are the old wood kind that are integrated with the trim, sometimes trim can crack when removed, or doesn’t fit exactly the same if the new window dimensions differ slightly. A good installer will try their best to salvage it. In a worst-case scenario, if a piece of trim gets damaged, they can usually replace that piece with new wood and paint it to match. When I helped a friend on his older house, we ended up replacing a couple of interior sills and trim pieces because of rot and damage, but we used new wood that mimicked the old style.
Given you have trim you like, make sure to discuss it with your contractor. Say you prefer to retain the existing trim if possible. They’ll note that and plan accordingly.
In summary:
Usually, they can reuse your interior trim.
You may need a little touch-up (paint or stain) after.
In some cases, new trim or at least new caulk lines are needed, so be prepared for a bit of paint work around the frames inside once done.
Not a huge deal, but definitely bring it up so they know it’s important to you. Good luck – hope your nice trim stays intact!
@matthewcoder3090 Thank you, that’s reassuring! I’ll definitely talk to my contractor about it ahead of time. I don’t mind doing a little paint touch-up; I just didn’t want to lose the character of that old woodwork. Sounds like it’s doable to keep it. Appreciate the detailed answer!
I’ve been lurking on this thread for a while and just want to say thank you to everyone who shared their experiences. I’m about to sign a contract for 12 windows in my home in Brandon, and reading all this has made me so much more confident and prepared. Seriously, I’ve got a checklist of questions for my installer now (permit? check; foam? check; who handles trim? check; etc.) that I wouldn’t have even known to ask about.
This kind of community knowledge is invaluable. You all saved me from learning some of these lessons the hard way. I feel like I have a little army of Tampa Bay neighbors guiding me now. ❤️
I hope this thread gets pinned or highlighted. It’s one of the most informative and realistic discussions I’ve seen on window replacement – no sales pitch, just real talk from homeowners. Exactly what I needed.
Thanks again, everyone! Wish me luck – at least now I know what I’m getting into (and I’ve stocked up on drop cloths, ear plugs, and maybe a hotel stay for install day, haha!).
@dobby_walker – Good luck with your project! You’ve got this. And don’t hesitate to keep us posted or ask if anything comes up. We’re all cheering for a smooth install for you. 🎉
I’m so thrilled to see how this conversation took off and became such a fantastic resource for all of us. When I started this thread, I had no idea we’d get so many detailed stories and tips. A huge thank you to everyone who shared their lessons learned – from hidden costs to hurricanes and everything in between. 🙏
This is exactly why our community is the best – neighbors helping neighbors, so we can all go into these big home projects with eyes wide open. For anyone reading this in the future: I hope our experiences help make your window replacement smoother and less stressful.
Feel free to keep the discussion going with any new insights or follow-up questions. I’ll keep an eye on the thread and others will too, I’m sure. Here’s to cooler, quieter, and safer homes for us all in Tampa Bay! 🥂