How to Order Custom Metal Window Trim
Custom metal window trim should be ordered from the actual window, wall, and cladding condition. Send a dimensioned cross-section, opening sizes, wall depth, siding profile, material, finish, piece lengths, and quantities. For replacement work, add an intact sample and photos showing how the existing head, jamb, and sill pieces meet.
Which dimensions matter?
Record the finished window frame width and height, the distance from the frame to the face of the wall cladding, and the thickness and profile of the siding, panel, stone, or other finish. Measure several windows rather than assuming every opening is identical. Separate rough framing dimensions from finished dimensions.
Draw the head, jamb, and sill profiles as end views. Dimension each leg, bend, hem, return, drip edge, and receiver. Mark inside and outside dimensions where material thickness affects the fit. Also show how corners meet and which face remains visible.
When is a stock profile enough?
A stock profile may work when its geometry matches the approved wall assembly and selected cladding. Custom trim is useful for deep wall returns, unusual siding profiles, existing openings, or details that need a particular receiver, reveal, or drip. Compare the actual section rather than choosing by a broad name such as J-channel or picture frame.
The designer and installer should establish the weather-resistive barrier sequence, flashing integration, fastening, sealants, clearances, and corner treatment. Pro Form Metals forms the specified pieces; it does not diagnose concealed wall conditions or replace the installation details for the selected window and cladding systems.
How do you match replacement window trim?
Bring an undamaged sample when it can be removed safely. Label top, bottom, wall side, window side, and visible face. If the old piece is bent, corroded, or cut short, identify those problems so they are not copied into the replacement.
Include the original manufacturer, metal, gauge, coating, and color code when known. A color name or phone photo is not a reliable match standard. Existing finishes can fade or change sheen, so decide whether the goal is the original product, the closest current finish, or a deliberate contrast.
Window trim order checklist
- Window schedule with finished frame sizes and quantities
- Head, jamb, and sill cross-sections with all bends dimensioned
- Wall depth and cladding type, profile, and thickness
- Inside or outside notation for controlling measurements
- Material, thickness, coating, color, and visible face
- Piece lengths, corner treatment, laps, and end conditions
- Photos plus an intact labeled sample for replacement work
- Installer approval before fabrication
See the Precision Trim and Flashings service page for made-to-spec profiles and the Reno and Lake Tahoe service pages for local coordination from the Reno shop.
Frequently asked questions
Can every window use the same trim profile?
Only when the windows, wall depths, and cladding conditions are truly the same. Group matching conditions and list exceptions separately.
Can trim be made from photos alone?
Photos explain orientation and adjacent finishes, but final fabrication needs dimensions or a sound physical sample. Perspective can hide depth and bend angles.
Does Pro Form Metals install window trim?
Pro Form Metals fabricates the metal pieces. Coordinate water management, substrate preparation, attachment, sealants, and installation with the project contractor.
Need window trim formed? Send the profiles, schedule, photos, and finish details through the Precision Trim and Flashings quote form.