The main difference is that casing is a general term for trim around windows and doors (both interior and exterior), while brickmold is a specific type of casing used only on the exterior, primarily to cover the gap between the frame and the wall cladding.
Understanding Trim Around Openings
Trim pieces play a crucial role in both the aesthetics and functionality of a building. Around windows and doors, these trims cover the gaps between the frame and the wall structure, providing a finished look and helping to seal the opening against drafts and moisture. The terms "casing" and "brickmold" relate to these specific types of trim.
What is Casing?
Casing refers to the molding or trim used to frame a window or door opening on the wall. It serves both decorative and practical purposes:
- Decorative: It adds architectural style and character to the opening.
- Practical: It covers the rough gap between the door or window frame and the wall finish (like drywall or plaster on the interior, or sheathing/siding on the exterior).
Casing is found on both the interior and exterior of a building. Interior casing comes in countless styles and profiles, from simple modern designs to elaborate traditional patterns. Exterior casing is also available in various styles but is typically designed to withstand outdoor elements.
What is Brickmold?
Based on the provided reference, Brick mould is an exterior casing trim designed to conceal the gap between a window or door frame and the exterior wall surface. It is specifically named "brickmold" because it was historically, and commonly, used with brick construction, providing a surface for the brick or other cladding to butt against.
Key characteristics of brickmold include:
- Location: Exclusively used on the exterior of a building.
- Purpose: To cover the gap between the window/door frame and the exterior wall finish (siding, stucco, brick, etc.). It also serves as a transition and often a historical anchor point for the exterior cladding.
- Profile: Brickmold typically has a specific profile that is relatively thick and often includes a sloped surface (a "splay") to help shed water away from the window or door frame. As stated in the reference, Brick mould is thicker than most interior casing trim profiles. This added thickness provides a buffer between the window/door and the surrounding exterior wall material.
Key Differences Summarized
Here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | Casing | Brickmold |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Interior and Exterior | Exterior only |
| Function | Covers gaps, adds finish (interior/ext) | Covers gaps, serves as cladding stop/trim |
| Thickness | Varies (interior often thinner) | Generally thicker than interior casing |
| Profile | Numerous styles | Specific profile, often sloped |
| Specificity | General term for trim around openings | Specific type of exterior casing |
Practical Considerations
- Materials: Casing can be made from wood, MDF (for interior), PVC, composite materials, or metal. Brickmold is usually made from durable materials like wood (often rot-resistant varieties), PVC, or composite, designed to withstand weather.
- Installation: Both are installed by attaching them to the wall framing and the window/door frame. Brickmold is often nailed directly to the side of the window or door frame before the unit is installed in the wall opening.
- Sealing: Proper sealing (caulking) is essential for both interior and exterior casing, but especially critical for exterior brickmold to prevent water infiltration.
In essence, think of casing as the umbrella term for the trim around windows and doors. Brickmold is one specific type of casing that lives outside and has a particular job and profile, often thicker than its indoor cousins.
