If you’re looking to upgrade your windows and are stuck deciding which type of window trim to go for, we’ve got you covered with our 10 exterior window trim ideas. While often overlooked, a window trim can really enhance the overall appearance of your home. However, you should consider the style and color of your home to decide which option is best for you.
10 Exterior Window Trim Ideas
Opting for new window trims is a great option if you’re looking to boost curb appeal and give your home a makeover without breaking the bank. Installing an exterior window trim costs an average of around $176. Take a look below at the following 10 ideas along with advice and insight from industry experts to get inspired!
1. White Window Trim and Blue Siding
A white exterior window trim coupled with blue siding gives a home a classic and timeless aesthetic. The white window trims provide a crisp contrast to the blue siding, making the windows pop and creating a well-defined and neat appearance. It’s also a flexible option as this works with almost any shade of blue.
2. Monochrome Trim and Siding
Monochrome exterior window trim and siding create a sleek and modern look by using a single color for both elements. Using one color for both trim and siding creates a seamless and cohesive appearance, giving the home a sophisticated and streamlined look. Andy Roe, CEO of Roe Paint, agrees by saying “Matching the window trim to elements like the siding, shutters or front door creates a cohesive look. For example, blue siding or shutters would coordinate nicely with blue window trim.” This approach is often associated with modern and minimalist architectural styles, emphasizing clean lines and simplicity. Other shades like white, gray, black, or beige are popular for achieving a monochrome look, as they offer timeless appeal and versatility.
3. Layered Window Trim
Layered window trims are less simplistic than other styles, creating depth to windows and making them more of a focal point. If you are looking to make your windows more of a feature of your home’s exterior, layered trims are the perfect choice. It works well with mid-century style homes, farmhouse style, cottages, and rustic.
4. Vinyl Trim
A vinyl exterior window trim is a great option for those looking for low maintenance. Kevin McLaughlin, Owner of Heritage Exteriors LLC, says “Vinyl trim is affordable, low-maintenance, and comes pre-primed so clients can choose a custom color.” Chris Langley, Director of Patio Doors, adds “Vinyl trim has grown very popular due to the fact that it illustrates both durability and low upkeep. It is resistant to water, pests, and rot—making it suitable for areas with harsh weather conditions—all while looking clean and crisp.”
5. Black Trim With White Siding
A dramatic color difference between window trim and siding creates a standout feature. Kamil Kozorys, Co-Founder of Unique Tiles, says “I am seeing a surge in the popularity of bold black exterior window trims as many homebuyers want to add a modern and sleek look to their homes. I have witnessed using bold black window trim creates a striking contrast, especially against light-colored exteriors.” Black trim against white siding is a great example of this sophisticated, modern look. Adrian Pedraza, Owner of The California Home Buyer, gives a realtor's perspective, saying “Contrasting black and white trim adds drama. Black accents white for a visual punch, making windows into focal points. This high-contrast look turns heads.”
6. Natural Wood Trim
For a more traditional, homely, and inviting feel to the exterior of the home, a natural wood window trim works well. Ben Connell, Owner of Connell Roofing, Inc., comments “Natural wood tones are always a popular choice for window trim and provide a rustic, cozy feel. Cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine are durable, low-maintenance options.” Crystal Olenbush, real estate expert at AustinRealEstate.com, agrees saying “Natural wood tones provide warmth and luxury.”
7. Dark Window Trim With Light-Colored Siding
Similar to the black and white combination, other dark trim colors work well with lighter shades of siding. While black and white are extremely striking, other colors can have a similar impact while matching better with the home’s style. Roe explains that “Dark-colored trim is bold and creates dramatic contrast, especially on light-colored homes. We’ve had many clients recently request black, navy, or forest green trim for a striking effect.”
8. Matching the Gable Trim
One way to achieve a cohesive look for your home is by matching the window and gable trims. By matching them both in material, style, and color, you can create an overall look that complements the siding. The continuation in style gives a unified and clean look.
9. Stone Trim
While you may want to include an elegant stone look to your home's facade, you may not want to commit to having it for the whole siding. A solution is to have stone window exterior trims. Yaeir Moinzadeh, Owner of Blue Rise Baltimore Roofing, believes that a stone trim “Adds a touch of elegance and grandeur, stone trim is highly durable and weather-resistant, providing a premium look for upscale homes.”
10. Faux and Decorative Shutters
Window trims can go beyond the standard framing around the glass even to include shutters. Brian M. Curran, Founder of DraftingServices.com, says, “As we move towards more understated luxury, decorative shutters are gaining popularity for exterior window trims. These shutters add a charming and quaint touch to any home, as part of the trim to enhance the window’s aesthetic.”
Adam Graham is a construction industry analyst at Fixr.com. He has experience writing about home construction, interior design, and real estate. He communicates with experts and journalists to make sure we provide the most up-to-date and fact-checked information. He has been featured in publications such as Better Homes and Gardens, and written for various outlets including the National Association of Realtors, and Insurance News Net Magazine.