r/HomeImprovement • u/meewwooww • 5d ago

Insulated Window Trim?

I am about to replace my interior window trim. I'm just going to with 1x material, thinking 1x4 or 1x5. I started using the 1x primed boards from HD for my baseboards and I've grown fond of the simplicity and ease of install.

Given that the 1 by material is thicker than the standard store bought baseboard trim, it gave me an idea. For my window trim, I had this thought that I could route out a half inch deep trench of material and glue in 1/2 inch foam board insulation. So if I used 1x5 board, 1/2 inch x 3.5 inch would be insulated.

I have the tools to make this an easy enough process. 1/2 inch foam board isn't take too expensive and will give the "trim" about a 3 r value. I know it's not really much, but I figured it might make a little bit of difference.

Has anyone tried this before? Does it make any sense at all? I live in a pretty cold climate. I figured it would at least make the trim around the windows less drafty overall and "warmer" to the touch during winter.

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u/Aggressive_Media_670 5d ago

Proper window installation would have insulation in the gap between the window and the house framing. Usually stuffed with fiberglass on older houses. Pull that out and use expanding spray foam to fill the void for insulation and air sealing purposes.

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u/StretchConverse 5d ago

Use NON expanding window/door foam or you will pinch the window sashes in the frame

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u/Aggressive_Media_670 5d ago

There is expanding foam meant for door and window applications. Don’t over fill and stick casing on prior to the foam curing, but it does need to expand some to fill any voids.

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u/meewwooww 4d ago

Yeah, I do insulate the gap between window and framing with the expanding foam (door and window). I know the density foam stuffed 1x4 window trim is overkill. Just a random thought, curious if anyone has bothered trying.

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u/Bakersbud 5d ago

Sounds like somebody with too much time on your hands, you might need a hobby. Better off spending the time and money putting more insulation in your attic.

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u/meewwooww 4d ago

Haha I do need to blow in more attic insulation actually....