Need professional help with your project?
Get quotes from top-rated pros.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Trim?
Highlights
- Average trim replacement cost: $761 (range $321-$1,201)
- Basic material costs: $0.50-$10 per linear foot
- Professional labor: $65-$105 per hour
- Interior trim generally costs less than exterior trim
- DIY can save 40-60% on labor costs
- Material choice significantly impacts total cost
- Bulk purchasing can reduce material costs by 15-30%
Looking to replace your home’s trim? The average cost to replace trim in 2025 is $761, with typical prices ranging from $321 to $1,201. The final cost depends on several factors, including the type of trim, material choice, and room size.
Basic trim replacement runs between $0.50 to $10 per linear foot for materials, while labor costs add $65 to $105 per hour. Whether you’re updating a single room or your entire home, this guide breaks down all the costs involved in trim replacement to help you plan your budget effectively.
Average Trim Replacement Costs in 2025
Understanding trim costs is essential before starting your next project. The cost to install trim varies significantly based on the room type, location, and whether you’re working with interior trim or exterior trim. Let’s break down these costs to help you budget effectively.
Basic Cost Range for Different Room Types
When planning trim installation for different rooms, square footage plays a crucial role in determining your total project cost. The cost to install trim varies by room size and complexity.
| Room Type | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Living Room (250-400 sq ft) | $400-$800 |
| Bedroom (150-250 sq ft) | $300-$600 |
| Kitchen (150-175 sq ft) | $250-$500 |
| Bathroom (50-100 sq ft) | $150-$300 |
Typical Costs by Trim Location
Different areas of your home require specific trim types, affecting the overall cost factors. Window trim, doors, and baseboards each come with their own installation considerations and price points.
| Location | Cost per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Window trim | $4-$10 |
| Door trim | $3-$8 |
| Baseboards | $5-$12 |
| Quarter round | $2-$6 |
| Chair rails | $4-$9 |
Cost Differences Between Interior and Exterior Trim
The variation between interior trim and exterior trim costs stems from material requirements and installation complexity. Exterior trim generally costs more due to weather-resistant materials and additional labor needs.
What Affects Your Trim Replacement Price?
Several factors influence the final cost of your trim project. From materials to labor, understanding these cost factors helps create an accurate budget for your trim installation.
Material Costs Breakdown
The type of trim material significantly impacts your total project cost. Wood trim remains popular, while high-end materials offer different benefits and price points.
| Material Type | Cost per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Basic MDF | $1-$3 |
| Wood trim | $3-$8 |
| PVC | $4-$10 |
| High-end materials | $8-$15 |
Size and Length Pricing
The length needed where wall meets trim determines your material quantity and affects labor costs. Longer runs of trim often qualify for bulk pricing, helping save money on larger projects.
Style and Design Cost Differences
Your home’s style and chosen decorative type impact costs. Simple trim styles cost less, while ornate molding and custom designs increase expenses.
| Trim Style | Cost per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Basic flat | $2-$4 |
| Colonial | $4-$8 |
| Crown molding | $5-$12 |
| Custom designs | $8-$20 |
Labor and Installation Fees
Professional trim installation typically costs between $65 and $105 per hour. Factors affecting labor include:
- Ceiling height requirements
- Wall condition and uneven surfaces
- Project complexity
- Required tools and equipment
Old Trim Removal Expenses
Removing old trim adds $0.60-$1.20 per linear foot to your project. This process requires careful work to prevent wall damage and prepare the surface for new trim installation.
| Labor Component | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic removal | $0.60-$0.90/linear ft |
| Difficult removal | $0.90-$1.20/linear ft |
| Surface preparation | $0.50-$0.75/linear ft |
These costs include the paying portion for both materials and professional installation, giving you a comprehensive view of your potential investment in trim replacement.
Additional Costs to Consider
When planning your trim installation project, several supplementary expenses can affect your total project cost. Beyond basic materials and labor, these additional factors influence your overall investment in new trim.
Painting and Finishing Costs
The perfect trim often requires proper finishing to enhance your home’s style. Paint trim costs vary based on material type and finish quality.
| Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Primer application | $0.75-$1.50/linear ft |
| Paint application | $1-$3/linear ft |
| Staining | $2-$4/linear ft |
| Clear coating | $1-$2/linear ft |
Future Maintenance Expenses
Regular maintenance helps preserve your trim installation and prevents costly repairs. Understanding these ongoing costs helps in long-term budget planning.
| Annual Maintenance | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Cleaning and touch-ups | $50-$150 |
| Caulk replacement | $75-$200 |
| Paint refresh | $200-$500 |
| Minor repairs | $100-$300 |
Repair vs. Replace Cost Comparison
When dealing with damaged trim, choosing between repair and replacement affects your cost factors. Small sections often cost less to repair, while extensive damage may require complete replacement.
Professional Installation vs. DIY Cost Comparison
The decision between professional trim installation and DIY significantly impacts your total project cost. Understanding both approaches helps determine the most cost-effective solution for your next project.
Professional Installation Total Costs
Hiring professionals for trim installation involves various cost factors. While paying more upfront, professional work often provides better results, especially with uneven surfaces or high-end materials.
| Service Component | Cost |
|---|---|
| Labor (per hour) | $65-$105 |
| Materials markup | 20-30% |
| Equipment fees | $50-$150 |
| Cleanup | $25-$75 |
DIY Project Expenses
Taking on trim installation as a DIY project can save money but requires proper tools and materials. Consider these essential costs when planning your project.
| Required Items | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic tool kit | $150-$300 |
| Power tools | $200-$500 |
| Materials | Cost per linear ft varies |
| Safety equipment | $50-$100 |
Hidden Costs to Watch For
Several unexpected expenses can arise during trim installation, affecting your budget for doors, windows, and wall meets. Consider these potential additional costs:
| Hidden Cost Type | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Wall repairs | $100-$300 |
| Additional materials | 10-15% of total |
| Special tools rental | $50-$150/day |
| Disposal fees | $25-$100 |
Remember that crown molding and ceiling height requirements may increase these costs, particularly in rooms with complex angles or extensive square footage. Whether choosing professional installation or DIY, factoring in these potential expenses helps create a more accurate budget for your trim project.
Ways to Save Money on Trim Replacement
Reducing trim costs while maintaining quality is possible with strategic planning. Whether installing interior trim or exterior trim, these money-saving approaches help lower your total project cost while achieving the perfect trim finish for your home’s style.
Material Selection Tips
Choosing the right trim type and materials significantly impacts your cost to install trim. Consider these cost-effective options without compromising on style.
| Material Choice | Potential Savings |
|---|---|
| MDF vs wood trim | 40-60% |
| Composite vs high-end materials | 30-50% |
| Standard vs decorative type | 25-45% |
| Basic vs crown molding | 35-55% |
Timing Your Project
Smart timing of your trim installation can lead to substantial savings on both materials and labor. The best times to schedule your next project are:
| Season | Average Savings |
|---|---|
| Off-peak winter months | 10-20% |
| End-of-year sales | 15-25% |
| Spring clearance | 20-30% |
| Mid-season promotions | 15-25% |
Bulk Purchase Savings
When replacing all the trim in multiple rooms or handling large square footage, bulk purchasing can reduce costs significantly. This approach works well for both window trim and door trim installation.
Consider these tips for maximizing your savings:
- Purchase extra materials (5-10% more) for repairs
- Combine interior and exterior trim orders
- Buy standard lengths for better pricing
- Share orders with neighbors for bigger discounts
Whether working on small sections or installing trim throughout your home, these strategies help manage costs while achieving professional results. Remember that saving money shouldn’tn compromise quality, especially where wall meets trim or when dealing with uneven surfaces
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost per linear foot for interior trim installation ranges from $0.50 to $10 for materials, plus labor costs. Lower end materials like MDF offer budget-friendly options, while premium trim increases the job cost significantly.
Crown molding installation typically costs $4 to $23 per linear foot, including materials and labor. The final price depends on the trim installed and ceiling complexity. Most homeowners guide suggests budgeting for additional trim repairs.
Key cost factors include material type, room square foot size, labor rates, and existing trim removal. The complexity of flooring transitions and wall conditions also affects the total installation price.
Professional trim painting costs $1 to $3 per linear foot. This includes surface preparation, primer, and paint. The final cost depends on trim type and finish quality.
Installing trim in an average room (150-250 square feet) costs between $300-$600. This includes materials, labor, and basic finishing, though complex designs may increase costs.
