Repairing Door Trim

Have you ever noticed how it always seems like the doors to a home are among the first things that need repairing? Usually this is due to the sheer volume of wear and tear that we put on these items. With all the things that go through a door, it only stands to reason that the door trim will end up taking most of the damage. Luckily, repairing door trim is a fairly easy process. All you need to do is follow these step by step instructions, and you will soon have your door trim looking brand spanking new again.

Materials needed:

• Hammer
• Hand saw
• Finishing nails (usually #12 or #6)
• Small pry bar
• Camera
• Wood stain, paint, or sealer.
• Paint brush
• Sand paper
• Paper
• Measuring tape
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Handheld power sander.

Procedure:

1. Measure. The first step in repairing your door trim would be to measure the existing trim. This will allow you to know exactly how much you will to purchase. Simply use your measuring tape to measure the existing door trim with your measuring tape, and write down the answers. Measure everything at least two times in order to ensure that you get the correct measurements.
2. Match. If you like your current style of door trim, and would like to match it then take a picture of the trim. Take this picture along with you to your local home improvement store, and see if they have any trim that will match it. Have the home improvement store cut the trim to your specification, and if at all possible see if they can create a miter cut where the pieces will meet. While you are at the home improvement store be sure that you also purchase some paint, stain, or sealer for your wood. Make sure that you purchase enough so that you can cover the entire pieces.
3. Remove. Once you get home with your new pieces of door trim, it is time to remove the old damaged pieces. Begin by removing the door from the door frame, and then removing the old door trim. When removing the door trim, be sure that you do it carefully so that you do not damage the frame itself. After removing the trim, be sure to properly dispose of it.
4. Replace. After having removed all the trim, it is time to replace everything. Carefully line everything up as straight as possible. If you have one, use a carpenter's level to ensure that everything is nice and straight. Use a hammer and the finishing nails to attach the trim to the frame. If necessary take your miter saw or handsaw and ensure that everything is trimmed properly so there are no gaps in the trim.
5. Stain, seal, or paint. Finally, once you have your trim in place it is time to stain, seal, or paint it. Before you do this though, take some time to sand the wood so everything is nice and smooth, and to remove any existing sealant, paint, or stain that may have been on the undamaged portions of door trim. Once everything has been sanded so that it is smooth to the touch, go ahead and begin applying your stain, paint or sealer. Be sure that you follow the direction properly, and allow to dry completely before replacing your door.