Should brickmold and exterior trim be replaced with your new entry door? Learn when replacing trim is recommended, how it protects against water damage, and why a complete installation improves curb appeal and long-term performance.
Should Brickmold and Exterior Trim Be Replaced with the Door?
In many cases, yes. Replacing the brickmold and exterior trim during an entry door installation is one of the best ways to ensure the new door looks finished, performs properly, and stays protected from moisture for years to come.
While existing trim can occasionally be reused if it is in excellent condition, new trim often provides a better seal, cleaner appearance, and the opportunity to inspect and properly weatherproof the entire opening during installation.
What Is Brickmold?
Brickmold is the decorative exterior molding that surrounds the outside of an entry door. Besides adding architectural detail, it helps cover the gap between the door frame and the exterior wall while creating a finished appearance.
More importantly, brickmold works together with flashing, sealants, and trim to help protect the rough opening from water infiltration. If the trim has deteriorated, pulled away from the wall, or has hidden rot behind it, simply installing a new door without addressing those issues can shorten the life of the entire system.
When New Brickmold Is Recommended
- The existing trim shows rot or moisture damage.
- Caulking has repeatedly failed.
- The trim is cracked, warped, or pulling away from the house.
- You are installing a complete new entry door system.
- You want a clean, finished appearance with matching materials.
- The contractor needs access to inspect flashing and weatherproofing.
Why Installation Quality Matters
Installing attractive trim doesn't guarantee a high-performing door. What matters most is what happens underneath the finished surfaces.
Door installation quality matters because small alignment errors can create significant daily problems, including sticking doors, daylight around the margins, lock alignment issues, drafts, and water intrusion. A quality installation begins with careful preparation—not simply attaching new trim.
A trustworthy contractor should clearly explain how the opening will be prepared, squared, shimmed, insulated, flashed, sealed, trimmed, and finally adjusted so the completed entry performs as well as it looks.
A Professional Installation Should Include
- Removal of existing trim when necessary.
- Inspection for hidden wood rot and moisture damage.
- Repair of deteriorated framing.
- Installation of proper flashing and moisture management.
- Squaring and plumbing the new frame.
- Professional insulation around the rough opening.
- High-quality exterior sealants.
- Installation of new brickmold and exterior trim when appropriate.
- Final adjustment of the threshold, weatherstripping, hinges, and hardware.
What Does FGIA (Formerly AAMA) Say?
The Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA), formerly the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA), publishes installation guidelines that emphasize proper preparation of the rough opening, flashing, structural fastening, insulation, drainage, and weather sealing. These practices help ensure the complete entry door system resists air and water infiltration while delivering long-term durability.
FGIA recognizes that exterior trim alone does not create a weatherproof installation. Proper flashing and sealing behind the trim are essential to protecting the structure from hidden moisture damage.
Trusted Entry Door Experts Since 1985
Since 1985, Suburban Construction has completed more than 40,000 exterior remodeling projects throughout Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois. President JR Girskis and Vice President Darin Wilson understand that beautiful trim is only the finishing touch on a properly installed entry door.
Every Therma-Tru® entry door installation begins with a careful evaluation of the existing opening. When replacing the brickmold and exterior trim will improve weather protection, appearance, or long-term durability, their team recommends doing the job completely rather than covering up hidden problems. The result is an entry that not only looks outstanding but also stands up to decades of Quad Cities weather.
Protected by a Lifetime Written Workmanship Warranty
Every entry door installation from Suburban Construction is backed by a Lifetime Written Workmanship Warranty. While manufacturers warranty the individual door components, Suburban stands behind the quality of its installation. From preparing the opening and installing flashing to fitting new trim, sealing the exterior, and making final adjustments, every step is completed with long-term performance and homeowner satisfaction in mind.
The Bottom Line
Replacing brickmold and exterior trim during an entry door installation is often the best choice because it allows the contractor to inspect the opening, repair hidden damage, improve weather protection, and create a clean, finished appearance. While existing trim can sometimes be reused, replacing it provides the opportunity to complete the installation correctly from the rough opening outward. When paired with professional flashing, sealing, and expert installation, new trim helps your entry door deliver lasting beauty, comfort, and protection for years to come.
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