Interior vs Exterior Vinyl Trim Cost
Vinyl trim can be used on the interior and exterior of a home. It has become a popular choice for trims due to its durability and low maintenance. Common exterior types include soffits, fascia, rake, and box ends. Some types used on the interior includes crown molding, shoe molding, baseboard, and chair rail. While most interior types are decorative, some are more basic. The opposite applies to exterior trims. Both, interior and exterior types, come in several styles, colors, and designs to work on a house of any style or type. Less trim is needed on the home’s exterior. For example, the average cost per linear foot for an exterior project is $10 to $25, while the same amount and type would cost $5 to $15 on an interior space.
| Type | Average Cost per Linear Foot (Installed) |
|---|
| Interior | $5 - $15 |
| Exterior | $10 - $25 |
Interior Vinyl Trim
Adding interior vinyl trim to a home runs as low as $5 per linear foot for both materials and labor but can also reach prices of $15 per linear foot. However, this can be less expensive than using other types on the interior of a home, such as wood, although that varies based on the type of wood. The price paid varies according to the type you need to be installed. For instance, a standard basic quarter round is much less expensive to install than it would be to add wainscotting to the interior of a home.
Exterior Vinyl Trim
Placing exterior trim on a home tends to be more expensive than adding it to the interior. However, working on second or third stories can also make the price higher. On the low end of the scale, it may cost as little as $10 per linear foot. The most decorative and intricate options can be as much as $25 per linear foot. The type being installed impacts the price, too. For instance, outside corner will be less expensive to install than placing knee braces.
Trim installation is one of the final items to complete when building a new home. It makes a home look complete, sealing gaps between the walls and windows or doors or between the floor and the walls. In a home’s exterior, window and door trims are very important for making the home weather tight by sealing all gaps. Costs for installation vary widely based on the types chosen and labor rates in your area. The prices below reflect basic PVC trim. Interior prices reflect window and door casings and baseboards only.
| Home Square Footage | Interior Cost (Installed) | Exterior Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| 1,500 sq.ft. | $1,770 - $2,740 | $4,840 - $5,910 |
| 2,000 sq.ft. | $2,210 - $2,350 | $5,745 - $7,385 |
| 2,500 sq.ft. | $2,790 - $3,860 | $6,650 - $8,100 |
| 3,000 sq. t. | $3,300 - $4,240 | $7,555 - $9,195 |
| 3,500 sq.ft. | $4,115 - $5,245 | $8,460 - $10,290 |
Average Vinyl Trim Cost per Inch
Many different types of vinyl trim serve varied purposes. These come in different widths. There is much variation in the cost of each width, depending on decorative qualities and sizes. The prices below reflect basic flat stock PVC trim with little decoration. The cost for 1-inch vinyl trim falls between $0.80 and $1.50. Keep in mind that if homeowners choose a type with more decorative features, the costs may be higher than the ones listed in the table below.
| Inches | Interior Cost per Linear Foot (Materials Only) | Exterior Cost per Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|
| ½ Inch | $0.70 - $0.90 | $0.80 - $1 |
| 1 Inch | $0.80 - $1 | $0.90 - $1.50 |
| 2 Inches | $0.90 - $1.10 | $1 - $1.80 |
| 3 Inches | $1.30 - $1.50 | $1.40 - $2.20 |
| 4 Inches | $1.55 - $1.75 | $1.65 - $2.85 |
| 5 Inches | $2.35 - $2.55 | $2.45 - $3.25 |
| 6 Inches | $3.25 - $3.45 | $3 - $4 |
Interior Vinyl Trim Cost by Type
Many different types of interior trim may be used for different purposes throughout the home. Some are used for decorative purposes, while others have a job to do sealing gaps around doors or windows or where the walls meet the floor. Prices vary for vinyl trim based on the size, type, and decorative embellishments. The prices below reflect basic types of interior trim.
| Type | Average Cost per Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Shoe Molding | $0.75 - $1.85 |
| Quarter Round | $0.80 - $2.55 |
| Crown Molding | $0.85 - $7.40 |
| Chair Rail | $0.90 - $1.05 |
| Casing | $1.05 - $6 |
| Baseboard | $1.15 - $3.60 |
| Wainscoting | $2 - $2.15 |
Shoe Molding
Vinyl shoe molding cost between $0.75 and $1.85 per linear foot. Shoe molding is most commonly used at the lower edge of the baseboard to hide gaps. Shoe molding adds a decorative touch to the baseboard and is useful if spots on the floor are not level. This small type adds a decorative element or build-up feature on a mantel or other architectural feature.
Quarter Round
Expect costs for vinyl quarter round to be between $0.80 and $2.55 per linear foot. Quarter round molding is used for the same purpose as shoe molding. The difference between quarter round molding and shoe molding is that the shape of shoe molding is a quarter of an ellipse, and the shape of quarter round is a quarter circle. Quarter round is available in several sizes and colors to fit any home. White vinyl quarter round is most common. This type printed with wood grain is available.
Crown Molding
The cost for vinyl crown molding ranges from $0.85 to $7.40 per linear foot. Crown molding is normally installed where the wall meets the ceiling. It can be used on the exterior, but this is fairly uncommon. When installed indoors, crown molding adds a decorative element to any room, but it can also hide any gaps or imperfections at the wall and ceiling’s junction. Vinyl crown molding for the exterior can be used at the top of pillars, above garages, where the siding meets the soffit, or to create a nice architectural detail just below the roofline. The possibilities for adding detail to a home’s exterior are limitless.
Chair Rail
Expect to pay between $0.90 and $1.05 per linear foot for vinyl chair rail molding. Vinyl chair rail molding is typically a decorative element installed horizontally three feet above the floor. Historically, this type was made of wood and often used in dining rooms to protect the wall from people scooting out their chairs. Today, vinyl is a popular option because of its durability, easy maintenance, and crisp white appearance.
Casing
The price for vinyl casing ranges from $1.05 to $6 per linear foot. Vinyl window casing is used to cover gaps between windows and the walls. Vinyl door casing does the same thing, but for doors. There are many styles of vinyl casing. Vinyl is an excellent choice due to its low maintenance requirements and durability. This type is used both on the interior and exterior of a home. Although it is fairly uncommon, it can be used on the exterior, where it creates a durable surface. On the inside, it enhances architectural elements.
Baseboard
The cost for vinyl baseboard is $1.15 to $3.60 per linear foot. This type is installed where the flooring meets the walls. This hides any gaps and imperfections in this area. White vinyl baseboard is the most common, but vinyl baseboard printed with wood grain is also available. It tends to be inexpensive compared to other materials, but it may be more impacted by changes in temperature. It fits well into rooms with a non-standard shape and can be used on crooked walls without showing gaps. Corners where the baseboard meets can be mitered or vinyl baseboard inside corners can be used. Mitering is typically used for 90-degree corners, while vinyl baseboard works in other cases. These cost between $5 and $10 each.
Wainscoting
The cost for vinyl wainscoting is between $2 and $2.15 per linear foot. Wainscoting, also referred to as a wainscot cap, is installed above wainscoting. This decorative panel is popular in dining rooms and can be used as chair rail or above wall frame molding. The trim that goes above the wainscot paneling gives it a finished look.
Exterior Trim Cost by Type
Vinyl trim has become a popular choice for exterior because it handles moisture without rotting, like wood. There are many exterior types, with most being installed around the roofline. Exterior doors and windows need exterior trim. It is generally slightly more expensive than interior because it needs to be thicker. The installation process is more involved due to the need to seal all gaps carefully. It is more time-consuming to install siding on the upper levels of homes.
| Type | Average Cost per Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Quarter Round | $0.75 - $2.50 |
| Outside Corner | $0.80 - $4.50 |
| Soffit | $1.25 - $2.55 |
| Drip Cap | $1.30 - $2.60 |
| Casing | $1.50 - $6 |
| Fascia | $1.95 - $4.95 |
| Rake | $1.95 - $4.95 |
| Frieze | $1.95 - $8 |
| J Channel | $2 - $3 |
| Box End | $5 - $8 |
| Knee Brace | $10 - $30 |
Quarter Round
Vinyl quarter round costs between $0.75 to $2.50 per linear foot. It is one of the most simple types used for interior. Quarter round is a thin type that can have a variety of exterior applications. It can be used around the edges of other type of exterior trim to create a rounded edge. It can also add a decorative element or be used in areas that require a very thin trim.
Outside Corner
Vinyl outside corner prices range from $0.80 to $4.50 per linear foot. This type is installed on the exterior of a house on the outside corners. It adds a nice touch to the corners and makes it look neater where the siding comes together. It provides extra protection by not leaving gaps in the corners exposed to the elements.
Vinyl Soffit Cost
Vinyl soffit prices range from $1.25 to $2.55 per linear foot. The soffit is the area underneath the overhangs of the roof of a house. It is also the area underneath covered entries, porches, or balconies. Soffits can be found in various materials, including vinyl, and can be vented or non-vented.
Drip Cap
The vinyl drip cap cost is usually between $1.30 and $2.60 per linear foot. It redirects rainwater when installed on the exterior of the home. This type prevents rainwater from dripping on the framing of doors and windows when installed above them. The vinyl drip cap is a great tool to prevent water damage.
Casing
Expect vinyl exterior casing to range from $1.50 to $6 per linear foot. Just as doors and windows receive casing trim on a home’s interior, they also receive this type on the exterior. Exterior casing is generally thicker than interior and takes more time to install. Exterior trim needs extra care to ensure it is properly sealed and ready to eliminate gaps and keep the elements out.
Vinyl Fascia Board Cost
Costs for vinyl fascia boards range from $1.95 to $4.95 per linear foot. Vinyl fascia boards are installed at the roofline and cover the soffit. These support the gutter system and protect the roof. Fascia boards keep water out by giving the roof sheathing and flashing a place to adhere. If your home already has wood fascia boards, consider installing a vinyl fascia board cover. A vinyl fascia board cover is $1.25 to $4 per linear foot. This thin piece protects the wood and enhances its appearance.
Rake Board
Vinyl rake boards usually cost between $1.95 and $4.95 per linear foot. A vinyl or PVC rake board is similar to a fascia board. However, rake boards are installed on the sloped roof parts, where fascia boards are installed on the flat edges where gutters are installed. Rake boards give a finished look to the home. To keep everything uniform, rake boards generally match fascia boards.
Frieze Board
Expect the vinyl frieze board cost to be between $1.95 and $8 per linear foot. A vinyl siding frieze board serves no functional purpose. It is installed just for looks. Frieze boards are installed on exterior walls where the soffit ends. Using PVC frieze boards is a popular choice because of their resistance to moisture and pests and easy maintenance. These can be a simple 1” x 4”, or homeowners can opt for more decorative pieces.
J Channel
These can normally be found in the same colors as your siding or exterior trim and do not need to be painted. These pieces cost $2 to $3 per linear foot. These pieces can be installed during vinyl siding installation, which also costs about $2 per linear foot. Vinyl J channel can be used in many places on the exterior of a home and is necessary when installing vinyl siding. It can be used around doors, windows, or the roofline. It hides the ends of siding panels to give everything a finished look.
Box Ends
Costs for materials range from $5 to $8 per linear foot. A box end is an end cap that finishes off the soffit and fascia at the gable wall. It is located at the corner where the gable end meets the non-gable end. These are generally custom-made from a large board that matches the other trim. It must fit perfectly in the space and account for all angles of the roofline.
Knee Braces
The cost per linear foot for knee braces made of vinyl ranges from $10 to $30 depending on how durable the materials are and what decorative features are included. Vinyl knee braces are used to add a bit of elegance to the exterior of a home by adding an extra architectural element. Knee braces are curved pieces of vinyl that are often used on porches. The curved area goes from a column to the roof and adds visual appeal to any space.
Average Vinyl Trim Prices by Style
Vinyl trim comes in various styles to meet many needs inside and outside of a home. Depending on the way homeowners want their home to look, they can choose from a variety of styles, from simple trims to those with a historic and vintage appeal. The right style can totally transform and refresh any home. Some are made to look great outside and protect from bad weather while others are created for aesthetic appeal and are typically used inside
For example, flat stock is one of the most simple types of trims, Colonial is similar but it is a bit more detailed and historic trim, with rounded and refined details toward the middle of the trim. The Craftsman style is also a simple option but with many decorative options available. Victorian and Windsor, on the other hand, as well as for trim that is scalloped, has much more details. These highly intricate trims offer a touch of elegance to any space.
Below, you can learn more about the available styles and what prices you might pay for them, depending on whether they will be installed inside or out.
| Style | Interior Cost per Linear Foot (Materials Only) | Exterior Cost per Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Flat Stock | $1 - $2 | $2 - $4 |
| Colonial | $1 - $2 | $2 - $4 |
| Craftsman | $1 - $4 | $4 - $8 |
| Barnwood | $2 - $5 | $3 - $8 |
| Provincial | $2 - $5 | $4 - $8 |
| Windsor | $2 - $5 | $4 - $10 |
| Bullnose | $2 - $5 | $4 - $8 |
| Victorian | $3 - $6 | $4 - $9 |
| Scalloped | $4 - $8 | $5 - $10 |
Labor Cost to Install Vinyl Trim
Experienced trim carpenters have the specialized tools and knowledge to make the correct cuts and miter the joints to fit tightly. A handyman, carpenter, or trim carpenter can usually install interior trims. Exterior trims are generally handled by the siding installer, window installer, or door installer. If replacing exterior trim by itself, a carpenter or handyman should be able to handle the job.
On average, a carpenter can install about 20 linear feet of trim an hour, so installing 125 feet would take a little over six hours. For interior trims, hourly labor rates run from $65 to $105, while the cost per linear foot is $3.20 to $8. When installing an exterior type, the cost for labor is $70 to $120 per hour or $9.50 to $12 for each linear foot. Whenever exterior trims are installed on the second or third floor of a home, labor costs increase by 10% to 30%.
| Labor Rates | Interior | Exterior |
|---|
| Cost per Hour | $65 - $105 | $70 - $120 |
| Cost per Linear Foot | $3.20 - $8 | $9.50 - $12 |
Cost to Replace Vinyl Trim
Most people replace their vinyl trim when tackling other projects around their house. It makes sense to install new trim when installing new siding, windows, doors, or flooring. Of course, sometimes homeowners simply want to change the look of their trim, or it could simply need to be replaced due to damage or wear. If new trim is being added to a window or door, siding, or flooring, the cost to remove the old one might be included in the cost of the project. If it is not, the cost for removal should be between $0.55 and $1.20 per linear foot.
If you remove all of the trim inside of a home to replace it, the cost ranges from $900 to $1,800 for a 1,500 sq.ft home. Some other interior projects that might require removal and replacement include switching from one kind of trim on a fireplace hearth to another or removing old wood trim from a shower to install something more durable. On the exterior, homeowners might replace old and damaged trim around a window or door.
Cost to Vinyl Trim a House by Location
Vinyl trim can be used in various places around the home, both interior and exterior. In general, exterior types are more expensive because thicker trim is usually used, it takes more time to weatherproof it, and working on ladders adds more installation time. Costs also depend on the difficulty of installation and the type of interior or exterior trims used.
| Location | Average Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Around Windows | $35 - $85 |
| Around Doors | $75 - $260 |
| Around Shower or Bathtub | $125 - $275 |
| Around Garage Door | $400 - $550 |
| Around Ceiling | $500 - $950 |
Around Windows
The average cost for vinyl interior window trim is around $45, including materials, with some costs as low as $35 or as high as $55 or more. Large windows, skylights, bay windows, and windows in difficult-to-reach areas cost more to trim. Vinyl exterior window trims costs between $65 and $85 for each window. Vinyl is an excellent choice for exterior window trim because it holds up well to the elements and does not break down or warp.
Around Doors
The cost to cast one interior door is between $75 and $185, including materials. Vinyl door trim and exterior applications cost between $185 and $260 per door for materials and installation. Vinyl trim around doors is important to seal the gap between the wall and the door jamb. The casing allows the homeowner to add decorative elements to their home.
Around a Shower or Bathtub
Adding vinyl trim around a bathtub or shower ranges from $125 to $275. It gives the bathroom fixture a better visual appeal and a cleaner look. It works better than wood since vinyl is not as susceptible to issues associated with moisture. In addition, adding decorative PVC trim to a bathtub or a shower can make it look more modern and improve the look of the entire room.
Around Garage Door
Expect costs to range from $400 to $550 to install vinyl siding trim around the garage door. The vinyl siding trim around a garage door is made up of several parts. These include a wrap where the door comes down and the exterior trim surrounding the garage door. These materials generally coordinate with the other siding and trim on the home. Vinyl is a great choice for this application since it holds up well to the elements. Garage door trim is a bit more complicated than a regular door, and the trim covers a larger area.
Around Ceiling
The cost to install 60 linear feet of crown molding around a room’s ceiling is $500 to $950. Crown molding is a special type of trim that sits near the ceiling to offer a more elegant aesthetic in any room in a home. It provides a sophisticated look while hiding any blemishes that might be found between the ceiling and walls underneath them. Crown molding made of vinyl comes in many styles and colors and can be straightforward or elaborate, depending on preference.
Vinyl vs PVC Trim
The term “vinyl” covers a variety of chemical compositions. PVC is one type of vinyl and the most widely used in trim, siding, and fencing. Vinyl refers to a variety of ethylene-based compounds. PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride, which is a polymer of vinyl chloride. PVC is the most popular choice for vinyl construction material. PVC trim cost is relatively inexpensive. When searching for vinyl trim, chances are that the vinyl trim will be made of PVC. Vinyl is often blended with other substances, such as resin or rubber, to create trim and other construction materials.
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Paint Vinyl Trim
Vinyl trim generally comes in white and is ready to be painted any color to match your decor. It is usually best to wait to paint trim until it is installed to fill nail holes and paint the entire run of trim. Expect to pay between $3 and $5 per linear foot for painting indoor trim. Painting exterior vinyl window or door trim costs between $4 and $6 per linear foot.
Vinyl Ceiling Medallion
A vinyl ceiling medallion adds visual interest to your home and increases home value. On average, you can expect to pay around $125 to $175 for the labor to install the medallion. The medallion itself ranges from $10 for a simple plain version to $100 for something more intricate. Ceiling medallions enhance the canopy of the ceiling and are used where chandeliers or other light fixtures are hung.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Extra architectural detail. Homes with more architectural details require more work and increase labor time by up to one day. This extra work adds another $560 to labor costs.
- Lifespan and maintenance. Vinyl trim often lasts longer than other materials like wood because it is not damaged by water or insects. High-quality vinyl lasts a lifetime with the proper care. Also, it does not expand or contract as much as wood, making it more resilient to the elements. It has a lower maintenance requirement and is difficult to distinguish from either metal or wood
- Older homes. Often, older homes have walls or floors that are not even, flush, or level. This makes the carpenter’s job much more difficult because they have to make specialized cuts around the imperfections in the walls or flooring. This adds extra labor costs, which will likely take twice as long as a normal installation and double the labor price.
- Permits. Usually, a permit is not needed for interior cosmetic changes, such as replacing trim. As for the exterior, a permit is not needed for small cosmetic projects. If you install new trim while ripping off and replacing all of the siding on your home, a permit will be needed.
- Home value. Installing new vinyl trim slightly increases the value of your home. It will not make a huge impact, but new trim makes your house look much nicer to potential buyers. Also, the fact that vinyl trim is highly resilient and durable makes it attractive.
- Fireplace hearths. Vinyl siding is not the best option for use near a fireplace. It is flammable and uncommon. Most people have better results using wood or other types of trim for a fireplace hearth. If you choose to install it in this location, make sure you are aware of safety issues.
- Asbestos. When dealing with vinyl window trim replacement, or any other type of trim replacement, be aware of asbestos. If the trim is very old in your house, it is best to have it tested before removal. If asbestos is present in any materials, an expert needs to be hired for the removal. This costs two to five times more than a traditional trim removal.
FAQs
- How much does it cost to install a vinyl baseboard?
The cost to install vinyl baseboard is between $1.15 to $3.60 for materials only.
- How long does vinyl trim last?
Vinyl trim tends to be very long-lasting, which is one of the reasons it is so popular. On average, vinyl trim will last as much as 20 to 40 years. If it is inside and does not experience much sun, this prevents fading and other damage.
- How much does interior vinyl trim cost?
This depends on the project and the type of vinyl chosen for the trim. Interior costs range from $5 to $15 (including labor). The cost can be lower or higher depending on the amount of vinyl needed for the project.
- How much does vinyl trim replacement cost?
On average, you can expect to pay from $900 to $1,800 to replace vinyl trim in a 1,500 sq.ft. house.
- How do you install vinyl trim?
Vinyl trim is best installed by a professional who has the proper tools and skills to take careful measurements of the space needing trim and make precise cuts. The trim is cut at an angle and nailed into place. After that, nail holes are filled, trim is caulked at the wall, and trim is painted.
- How do you install vinyl siding trim around windows?
Vinyl trim is installed around a window to look like a frame to fill gaps between the window and the wall. A carpenter will take measurements, make cuts, install side pieces, and add the top trim.
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