When observing the trim around an exterior door, you may have noticed a sturdy, often decorative frame that outlines the door where it meets the siding or brick. That frame is what’s referred to as brick mold, and despite its name, it serves far more than just aesthetics—it’s a critical component in both form and function.
So, what is brick mold on door frames exactly? Let’s unravel this question with depth, nuance, and practical insight.
Brick Mold Defined: More Than Just Trim
In its simplest terms, brick mold (or brickmould) is a type of exterior casing or trim that bridges the space between the door frame and the exterior siding, masonry, or brick veneer. It’s typically installed around exterior doors and windows and acts as a transition between building materials, forming a seal and adding architectural detail.
Though often mistaken as a purely decorative border, brick mold plays a structural and protective role, making it an important, though often overlooked, aspect of door installation.
The Purpose of Brick Mold: Functional and Aesthetic
At a glance, it might just look like an ornamental feature. But the utility of brick mold goes deeper.
1. Protects the Door Frame
Brick mold serves as a barrier against water infiltration. Without it, the joint between the door frame and the exterior siding or brick is vulnerable to rain, snow, and moisture accumulation. Over time, water seeping into those small gaps can cause rot, mold, or frame warping—which no homeowner wants.
2. Anchors the Door Frame Securely
When brick mold is properly installed, it strengthens the door unit, helping to keep it snug against the framing. This reinforcement is especially critical when installing a pre-hung door into a rough opening surrounded by masonry or siding.
3. Provides Visual Balance
From a design perspective, brick mold enhances curb appeal by creating clean visual lines around the door. It adds definition and depth, giving even a basic entry door a polished, finished look.
Materials Used in Brick Mold
Brick mold can be made from various materials, each with unique advantages. Let’s explore the most common types:
Wood
The traditional and most classic material for brick mold. Wood offers timeless charm and is easy to paint or stain. However, it is susceptible to moisture, insects, and rot if not sealed and maintained properly.
PVC or Vinyl
A popular modern alternative. PVC brick mold is rot-resistant, low-maintenance, and doesn’t require painting. It’s ideal in areas with heavy rainfall or extreme temperatures.
Composite
Made from a blend of wood fibers and synthetic materials, composite brick mold balances the aesthetic of wood with enhanced durability. It is less prone to cracking, swelling, or insect damage.
Aluminum
Though less common in residential homes, aluminum brick mold can be found in commercial settings. It offers a sleek look and is incredibly weather-resistant but typically has fewer design options.
Common Sizes and Profiles
Brick mold trim is available in several standard widths, most commonly 1-1/4″ to 2″, depending on the manufacturer and the application. The most prevalent profile is a slightly rounded outer edge, which helps direct water away from the door.
There are also fluted, flat, and ornamental profiles available to match different architectural styles—ranging from colonial to modern.
Installation of Brick Mold: How It’s Applied to Doors
Installing brick mold correctly is crucial. It’s typically installed after the door unit is set but before siding or masonry is completed. Here’s a basic overview of how it’s attached:
- Prepping the Frame: After inserting the door into the rough opening, shims are used to ensure the frame is level and plumb.
- Applying the Brick Mold: The trim is cut to size (usually mitered at the corners) and nailed or screwed into the exterior frame.
- Sealing and Caulking: Caulk is applied around the edges to prevent water intrusion.
- Painting or Finishing: For wood or paintable materials, the final coat is applied to seal and match the home’s design.
Improper installation can result in water leaks, misaligned doors, or gaps in insulation—issues that cost far more to fix than to prevent.
When Brick Mold Is Not Used
Interestingly, not every door frame includes brick mold, especially in homes with flush mount doors or doors set into concrete block walls. In these cases, flush trim or direct-set frames are used instead, especially for a more modern or minimal aesthetic.
That said, in traditional residential construction—especially in wood-framed homes—brick mold is almost always present, even if it goes unnoticed.
Can Brick Mold Be Replaced?
Yes. Like any component exposed to the elements, brick mold can deteriorate over time. Fortunately, it can be removed and replaced without having to uninstall the entire door. Whether it’s cracked, warped, or rotting, damaged brick mold should be addressed promptly to prevent water infiltration.
Replacement Tip: If you’re replacing wood with a rot-resistant alternative like PVC, be sure to use stainless steel fasteners and compatible adhesives or caulk for a long-lasting installation.
DIY or Professional Installation?
Installing or replacing brick mold is a task that sits somewhere between beginner and intermediate difficulty for DIYers. While cutting angles and sealing joints may sound simple, precision matters greatly, particularly when trying to avoid air leaks or misalignment.
If your door opens onto an exposed area or you live in a region with extreme weather, it may be wise to hire a professional installer.
Read More : What Are the Dimensions of a Brick? A Comprehensive Guide to Standard Brick Sizes
Final Thoughts: Brick Mold as the Unsung Hero
To sum it up, brick mold on a door is more than just decorative trim—it’s an integral part of the door’s structure, weatherproofing, and visual appeal. Whether made of wood, vinyl, or composite, it provides a necessary transition between the door frame and the home’s exterior, protecting against moisture while adding style and symmetry.
Now that you know what brick mold is and why it matters, you’ll likely never overlook it again. From casual curbside glances to full-scale renovations, this modest detail plays a quietly vital role in how doors function and how homes present themselves to the world.
