When it’s time to order new windows, one question you should be ready to answer is “Do you want brickmould, or a different exterior trim on your new windows?”
If you’re wondering “What is brickmould?”, don’t worry, you’re not alone!
Many customers who buy replacement windows in Cary, NC at our showroom have no idea what brickmould is and if they want it.
If that’s you, read on to learn about this option, and to figure out if it makes sense for your window replacement project.
Brickmould (sometimes spelled brickmold), is a casing used around a window frame on the exterior of a home. It is one among many options of exterior window trim (casing). Of the options available, brickmould is the most popular and commonly used exterior window casing.
It’s true purpose is to fill the gap between the window frame and the exterior surface of the house. This adds an additional layer of water-tightness around your window’s rough opening.
The name brickmould reflects a time when most houses were surfaced in brick. The product was a casing (mould) between the window and the home (brick), hence the name brickmould.
However, many homeowners appreciate the visual interest that this casing adds to their windows.
Top 5 Questions About Brickmould Answered
1. What is Brickmould Made of?
Brickmould is available in a variety of materials, including
- Vinyl
- Stain-grain wood
- Aluminum
- PVC composite
Here in the Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina, we recommend using a material that is rot resistant. Depending on which window line you are using, this may be made from Aluminum, PVC, or a fiberglass composite.
That’s because the high humidity, heat, and sun exposure that our windows face can lead to warping or rotting of other brickmould materials.
We find that PVC, composite, and aluminum are the most durable options for central NC homeowners.
2. What are the Benefits of Brickmould?
Brickmould extends the life of your window by adding an additional layer of security around it.
Brickmould also prevents damage from moisture by preventing any gaps between your window and your exterior wall.
3. Is There is a Standard Brickmould, or can I Customize the Look?
If you choose to use brickmould, you are choosing an exterior casing that is 2 inches wide. The profile is standard, and looks like this:
White, PVC brickmould that has not yet been applied as an exterior casing to a window.
Black, aluminum brickmould was added to this Andersen E-series window during manufacture.
When it comes to customization, you can often (but not always) have brickmould customized to the same color as your window. You can also paint brickmould.
4. Does Brickmould Come on a new Window? Or is it Applied Separately?
Windows are custom-made at the time they ordered. This allows each window order to made to the unique specifications that each homeowner wants.
Brickmould is one of those specifications. Many window manufacturer’s offer the option to build brickmould onto the window frame during manufacturing.
Here is an example of an Andersen E-series window with the brickmould applied during manufacture.
But what if you have existing windows and want to add brickmould, or if you didn’t order it to be built onto the window?
You still have options.
Brickmould can be ordered in lengths and cut on-site, and then applied to your window during or after installation.
5. Do I Have to use Brickmould on my Windows?
No, you do not have to include brickmould, or any casing, when you install new construction windows.
When people elect not to include brickmould in their window, it is usually for aesthetic reasons. Some contemporary and modern-style homeowners prefer to keep their window profiles as minimal as possible, and so they forego any extra casing.
However, most people, even those with ultra-modern architecture, do elect to have brickmould installed.
That’s because brickmould protects your windows, keeping them functional and fresh-looking for much longer than they would be without additional casing.
If, however, you are replacing existing windows which had exterior casing, you must replace this casing with a similar option. That is, unless you plan to have your house re-sided at the same time as your window replacement. Otherwise, you will expose a gap between your window and siding.
Summary
When you need new windows, you need to work with professionals who understand every aspect of window replacement.
Window Works Co. has helped thousands of North Carolina homeowners find the windows (and brickmould) they love.
We want to help you find the windows you love, too!
When you’re ready to replace your windows, use the form below to tell us about your project and schedule your free estimate appointment today.
