Welcome back to our series on the essential components that make up your windows and doors. We’ve already explored Insulated Glass Units (IGUs), glass options, window sashes, and window styles. Now, let’s turn our attention to a lesser-known, yet crucial, part of the window assembly: the brickmould. 

Often overlooked, brickmoulds play both a protective and aesthetic role in your window’s performance and appearance. In this article, we’ll explain what brickmoulds are, why they matter, what they’re made of, and when you need them. 

What Is a Window Brickmould? 

A brickmould is an exterior trim or casing that surrounds your window frame. Think of it like the decorative frame around a picture, but with a job to do. It’s installed on the outside of the window, bridging the gap between the window frame and the exterior wall (or siding, stucco, or brick). 

Besides giving your window a clean, finished look, the brickmould helps seal out the elements and protect your home’s structure. 

Why Brickmoulds Matter

Sealing and Protection

At first glance, brickmoulds might seem purely decorative. But they’re much more than that. A well-installed brickmould helps: 

• Keep moisture out and prevent water infiltration into the wall cavity.
• Block drafts and deter pests from finding their way into your home. 
• Reduce the risk of wood rot and damage to structural components. 

Aesthetic Finish

Brickmoulds also serve an important visual purpose: 

• They create a defined, professional-looking edge between your window and the exterior wall. 
• With various profiles and styles available, they can enhance your home’s curb appeal or match a specific architectural style—be it modern, contemporary, farmhouse, and coastal.

Common Materials Used in Brickmoulds

Brickmoulds are available in a range of materials, each offering its own benefits depending on your home’s design, climate, and maintenance expectations. 

Vinyl

• Low-maintenance and weather-resistant, vinyl brickmoulds are a popular choice for any home. 
• They don’t rot, peel, or require painting, making them a great long-term option for homeowners looking to minimize upkeep. 

Aluminum-Clad 

• Often used with wood-core windows, aluminum-clad brickmoulds combine the classic look of wood with the durability of metal.  
• The cladding protects the wood underneath from the elements, increasing lifespan without sacrificing style. 

JELD-WEN Canada offers the innovative JWC8500 Series Hybrid Window featuring Aluminum cladding over a vinyl core, taking advantage of the benefits of both vinyl and aluminum. 

Wood

• Traditional homes may still use wood brickmoulds for historical accuracy or specific design goals.   
• While beautiful, wood requires regular maintenance and may not be suitable for high-moisture climates.

When selecting a brickmould material, consider your local weather conditions, the architectural style of your home, and how much maintenance you’re comfortable with over time. 

When Do You Need a Brickmould? 

Not every window installation uses brickmould, but in many cases, it’s either required or highly recommended. 

• New Construction: Most new builds will include brickmoulds as part of the window package to create a seamless and weatherproof exterior.    
• Retrofit or Replacement Windows: Depending on how the old window was installed and what condition the surrounding materials are in, adding or replacing a brickmould may be necessary for both appearance and performance. 
• Code and Best Practice: In some areas, building codes or best practices may require brickmoulds to ensure a proper seal between the window and the wall. 

When replacing windows, it’s a good idea to inspect the condition of existing brickmoulds. If they’re rotting, warped, or missing altogether, it’s time to consider an upgrade. 

Conclusion

Brickmoulds may not be the first thing you think of when planning a window project, but they play a vital role in both function and form. They seal out the elements, protect your home’s structure, and add a polished finish to your windows. 

Remember, when replacing or upgrading windows, don’t forget the trim. Brickmoulds aren’t just decorative, they’re an integral part of your home’s protection and personality.