How to replace an architrave

Architraves are the decorative timber trims that are fitted around doors, windows and, on occasion, loft hatch openings. You may want to remove and replace a door architrave if it's been knocked or damaged or is just old with wear and tear. Here's an easy-to-follow guide which illustrates the steps involved.

Level of difficulty

Level 2: Intermediate

What you need

  • New architrave
  • Nails
  • Hammer
  • Pencil
  • Chisel
  • Scrap wood
  • Mitre box
  • Pliers
  • Saw

The steps to follow

Note:
Most door architrave mouldings are nailed on door linings making them easier to remove than skirting boards.

  1. Slide a putty knife or a utility knife between the edge of the architrave and the wall to cut through the paint or wallpaper. Follow the same procedure for the edges between the face of the architrave and the door lining.
  2. Next drive a chisel down between the rear edge and the wall to pry away the top section of the architrave. Insert a piece of scrap wood in between the chisel and the surface to protect the plaster. If the mitred corners are fixed on the wall, lever these apart while you remove the section.
  3. Drive the chisel behind the mitred top edge of the side sections and lever away. Remove any nails and fixings with a pair of pliers.
  4. Offer up a new side section and mark the position of the mitre on the inside edge. Using a mitre box, make a 45 degree angle cut. Use two or three partly driven nails to temporarily pin the length in position. Repeat the same procedure for the other side section.
  5. Hold an architrave up against the tops of the side sections. Mark the inner and outer ends of the mitres on it. Make a 45 degree cut, check the fit and nail it in place.
  6. Then pin through the corner mitres and fix all the nail heads.
  7.  When you've replaced your architrave, you can start decorating.

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