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Shop Class

How-To

Exterior PVC Trim: Windows and Doors

Watch this Shop Class video to learn how to assemble and install casings for windows or doors in a wall that has been furred out for a rainscreen.

By Ben Bogie

Sponsored by Boral

When it comes to installing windows and trimming them out with a rainscreen system, you have a couple of options. One way is to  install the window 3/4 in. out by placing it over some plywood bucks, which makes for a trim install with no extension jams. But in this demonstration we’re going to install the window flush with the sheathing plane and add extension jams.

Whenever possible I like to batch cut and pre-assemble any of my exterior trim. It’s pretty common that you’re going to have multiple windows on a project that are the same size, and this allows you to set up stop blocks and repeat cuts and get the most efficiency out of your work time. You can see here we’ve got two windows cut for today and I’m going to walk you through the steps on how to assemble one on the bench. Watch the video to see the entire process.

When I’m reading to install a preassembled casing, I’m going to start off by giving myself a couple of center marks and pre-start my screws so that I’m not having to juggle with fasteners while i’m holding the trim on the wall. We left off the rain screen strapping above our window because we’re going to want to install a rigid metal cap flashing over top of our window to keep the continuity of our water management system. After that’s in place we can come back and install the strapping above the window head.

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Videos in the Series

  • how to install PVC trim

    Exterior PVC Trim: Layout and Preparation

    Builder Ben Bogie starts off this Shop Class video series by establishing a control height as a reference point for laying out exterior trim on a house.

  • How to install PVC soffit and fascia

    Exterior PVC Trim: Soffits, Fascias, and Rakes

    In this episode of Shop Class, builder Ben Bogie shares tips for getting tight joints, for cutting PVC trim with standard carpentry tools, and for keeping your job site clean when installing cellular-PVC trim.

  • how to install PVC water table trim

    Exterior PVC Trim: Water Table and Cap

    In this Shop Class video, learn how to use cellular-PVC boards and drip caps to create this traditional architectural detail that will be the foundation for your siding installation.

  • how to install PVC corner boards

    Exterior PVC Trim: Corners, Inside and Out

    Watch this episode of Shop Class to see the best options for fitting outside corner boards and inside corners when installing exterior trim.

  • how to install PVC blocking for plumbing and electric fixtures

    Exterior PVC Trim: Wire and Pipe Penetrations

    In this episode of Shop Class, builder Ben Bogie shares tips for installing escutcheons to create solid mounting surfaces for exterior electrical and plumbing fixtures.

  • Exterior PVC Trim: Windows and Doors

    Watch this Shop Class video to learn how to assemble and install casings for windows or doors in a wall that has been furred out for a rainscreen.

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About This Video Series

Cellular PVC is a durable and clean-looking alternative to wood when you need to install trim that will hold up to the elements. PVC trim can be shaped and fastened with the same tools you would use for wood, but there are some differences that it's helpful to know before you get started. In this Shop Class video series Builder Ben Bogie will share tips and tricks for a professional installation of PVC trim over… More about this Video Series

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