What is colonial window trim?

Colonial window trim refers to the decorative molding and framing around windows in Colonial style architecture. This style was popular in the American colonies in the 17th and 18th centuries and took inspiration from English Georgian and Dutch architecture. The hallmarks of colonial window trim include simplicity, symmetry, and an emphasis on practicality and function over ornate decoration.

What are the key features of colonial window trim?

There are a few characteristic features of traditional colonial window trim:

• Simple molding – Window trim often featured simple crown molding or no crown molding at all. The molding served a practical purpose to seal gaps and provide a finished edge.
• Flat casings – Windows were framed with flat, plain boards rather than ornately molded casings.
• No pediments – Pediments and other decorative elements over the windows were rare.
• Lintels – Windows often had a decorative lintel or header made of wood over the top.
• Sills – Windows sat on a simple wooden sill.
• Shutters – Functional shutters were common and used for privacy, light control, and insulation.
• Double hung sash windows – The most common window type, with two sashes that slide up and down.

The overall look is simple, functional, and sparse compared to later architectural styles. Ornate carved decorations and elaborate window treatments were not common features of colonial architecture.

What materials were used?

Colonial window trim was predominantly made from wood. Commonly used woods included:

• Pine – Affordable and readily available in the colonies, pine was a very common material for trim and framing.
• Oak – A strong and durable hardwood used for trim, sills, and lintels.
• Poplar – An easily worked wood used for non-structural trim elements.
• Maple – Sometimes used for ornate decorative elements like pediments.

In some high-style examples, window trim may also incorporate classical details carved from wood or molded plaster. But generally the trim relied on simple carpentry joinery and plain surfaces.

How did colonial window trim reflect colonial architectural styles?

Window trim in the colonial era mirrored the architectural trends and sensibilities of the time. Some ways it reflected key aspects of colonial architecture:

• Simplicity – Extravagant ornamentation was rejected in favor of simple, elegant designs.
• Emphasis on symmetry – Windows were most often symmetrically placed.
• English influence – The Georgian style inspired simple rectangular windows and lintels.
• Dutch influence – Stepped gables and casement windows became popular in areas settled by the Dutch.
• Functional – Shutters, sills, and lintels served practical purposes beyond just decoration.

Trim was designed to harmoniously complement the overall home design. As colonists built homes with local materials, trim adapted to what was available while maintaining a sense of restrained elegance and practical sensibility.

What are some variations and regional differences?

While there were overarching similarities in colonial window trim, variations emerged in different regions and time periods:

• Early Colonial (1600s) – Very simple molding, latticed windows, steeply pitched roofs in northern colonies. Casement windows and Dutch influence in New York/New Jersey.
• Georgian Colonial (1700-1780s) – Symmetrical facades, elaborate door surrounds, simpler window surrounds, heavier lintels. More ornate in high-style examples.
• New England – Plain, narrow casing and sills. Occasional pediments over front doors but rarely windows.
• Mid-Atlantic Colonies – Broader casing and sills. Larger windows and finer woodwork in wealthier homes.
• Southern Colonies – Wider window spacing, piazzas, and porticos to accommodate a warmer climate. Larger window sashes.

In general, window trim became more ornate through the 18th century as sawmilling technology advanced and allowed more elaborate woodworking and carving. But even into the late colonial period, the trim maintained clean lines and avoidance of lavish decoration compared to later Victorian styles.

What maintenance does colonial window trim require?

To keep colonial window trim in good condition:

• Inspect for rot, damage, cracks, or loose joints and repair as needed. Replace any pieces that are beyond repair.
• Scrape and sand peeling paint. Repaint every 5-10 years with exterior primer and paint.
• Use caulk to seal any gaps or cracks to prevent air infiltration and moisture entry.
• Keep wood sealed and painted to prevent water damage, mildew, and wood rot.
• Clean out built-up debris and soil from bottom window channels and sills.

Proper maintenance preserves the longevity of wood trim and prevents costly replacement. Catching minor issues early also prevents more extensive repairs later on. With routine upkeep, colonial window trim can gracefully persist for decades or even centuries.

What are some options for replacing or updating colonial window trim?

For those looking to replace severely damaged colonial window trim, some options include:

• Wood – Can be custom milled to exactly match existing profiles. Cedar or redwood offer durability.
• Urethane/PVC – Never needs painting and resists moisture damage.
• Fiber cement – Can replicate a wood look while being rot-resistant.
• Vinyl – Affordable option for low maintenance and energy efficiency.
• Composite – Blends plastic and wood fiber for a durable painted finish.
• Polystyrene – Can be precisely molded for ornamental window surrounds.

Updating or modernizing colonial window trim can also be done through steps like:

• Remove excessive layers of old paint to let details emerge.
• Add storm windows to improve energy efficiency while retaining the original sash windows.
• Install historically accurate wood screen windows to enable more air circulation.
• Add shutters for an authentic touch. Ensure they are sized properly to cover the window when closed.

Simple enhancements like these can make colonial window trim more functional for modern use without sacrificing the historic charm.

Conclusion

Colonial window trim represents a practical yet handsome architectural feature of early American building design. With its symmetrical simple lines, durably weather-resistant materials, and lack of lavish ornamentation, colonial window trim reflects the sensibilities and lifestyles of the colonists. Maintaining and restoring this historic accent preserves both the functionality and character of colonial homes.