How to Add Plinth Blocks to Door or Window Casing
Plinth blocks are great additions to a window or door casing. There are various plinth block designs that are available on the market and you can always choose one which will conform with your particular house theme. A casing for a window is similar to that of a door although you need to trim the bottom frame of a window while a door does not have a need for it. But you can always create an additional decorative element at the bottom of your door frame by installing a plinth block on each side.
You can also use a plinth block to serve as a connection between the baseboard and the door casing. Such blocks can be made to fit any frame size or pattern which makes them ideal for customizing your house design. In installing a plinth block at each corner of your door or window casing, you need to get hold of some materials and tools.
Marking for the Plinth Blocks
In installing a plinth block, set the combination square to 3/16 of an inch. Mark the horizontal and vertical parts of the frame for a reveal of 3/16 of an inch. Mark the center part with the same reveal measurement as well.
Taking Window Measurement
Measure the distance between the vertical marks that are at the bottom of your window or door frame. Add the measurement to two times the width of your casing material and add two inches.
Cutting the Casing
Cut your casing material on edge instead of flat. Make a miter at the ends with the same saw setting that you will use when you miter the corners. Turn the corner by cutting matching pieces and glue them to the casing ends using wood glue. Hold them in place for about an hour with a painter’s tape.
Nailing the Casing
To nail the casing in place properly, align it with the horizontal marks that are at the bottom part of your window or door frame.
Installing the Plinth Blocks
Position a plinth block at each corner of your window or door casing and nail them with the finishing nails. This will ensure that no nail heads will show once your project is finished. Align the blocks with the marks you have made on the upper corners of the casing. To guide you in making sure that your placement and positioning of the plinth block is perfect, use the combination square.
Preparing the Trim
Measure the remaining pieces of trim and cut them so that they will fit between two plinth blocks. For a window casing, these would be positioned between the left block and the casing at the bottom and the right block, and the casing at the bottom.
Nailing the Trim
Align your trim pieces with the plinth blocks and the markings that you made previously and nail them in place. All the pieces should be nailed both into the rough frame as well as the window frame.
