How to Fit an Architrave: A Trade Guide 

6th Aug 2024 -

The architrave is more than just a decorative finish. It bridges the gap between door frames and walls, creating a polished look in any space. This guide walks you through the process of fitting an architrave and offers tips for flawless results.

• Understanding the Architrave Materials
• 11 Types of Architrave Profiles
• How to Cut and Measure an Architrave
• How to Fit Architrave: 5 Advanced Techniques
• 6 Architrave Finishing Methods
• Buy Superb Architraves for Doors and Windows Today

Understanding the Architrave Materials

Choosing the type of materials for an architrave is not just a matter of your client’s preference but it also depends on the location where this will be fitted and the characteristics you are looking for.

Material	Characteristics	Best Uses
Wood	- Pine architrave: affordable, soft  - Oak architrave: durable, attractive grain - Poplar architrave: resistant to warping  - MDF architrave: stable and cost-effective	- General interior use.  - High-end finishes (hardwoods)
PVC	- Moisture and insect-resistant - Low maintenance - Easy to clean	- Bathrooms  - Kitchens - Exterior applications
Polystyrene	- Lightweight - Easy to install - Can mimic wood grain - Cost-effective	- Large-scale projects - Budget-conscious renovations
Composite	- A mix of wood fibres and resins - Wood-like appearance - Enhanced durability - Moisture resistant	- Areas with moisture concerns - High-traffic zones - Balance of aesthetics and durability

11 Types of Architrave Profiles

Architrave profiles play a crucial role in defining the style and character of a space. Here are the common types of architrave profiles, detailing their characteristics and best applications.

1. Ogee (S-Shaped)

The ogee architrave profile features a graceful S-shaped curve, creating a flowing and elegant appearance. This profile is well-suited for traditional and period properties, especially Victorian or Georgian styles. 

It excels in formal spaces and is particularly effective in spaces with high ceilings. 

2. Torus

The torus architrave profile is characterised by semi-circular convex moulding, complemented by a small flat section at the base. This profile is ideal for contemporary and transitional interiors, finding its place in modern homes and commercial spaces. 

Torus architrave pairs well with minimalist design schemes. 

3. Chamfered

Featuring a bevelled edge, chamfered architrave creates a simple, angled appearance that is both versatile and stylish. This profile is a perfect match for modern and contemporary interiors. 

It is particularly effective in kitchens and bathrooms because of its clean lines and fresh look. 

4. Stepped

The stepped profile consists of a series of right-angled steps or levels, creating a distinctive appearance. This profile is often associated with Art Deco-inspired interiors and finds its place in contemporary spaces. 

The stepped profile adds a touch of sophistication to minimalist designs.

5. Bullnose

With its fully rounded edge, the bullnose profile offers a soft, smooth appearance that is both appealing and practical. It works well in contemporary and transitional interiors, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. 

The bullnose architrave profile is perfect for spaces where a softer, more approachable feel is desired.

6. Lambs tongue

Similar to the ogee, the lambs tongue profile features a more pronounced S-curve with a distinctive 'tongue' at the end. This profile is often used in period restorations, particularly for Georgian and Regency styles. 

The lambs tongue profile pairs well with ornate ceiling mouldings for a cohesive look.

7. Pencil round

The pencil round profile features a very slight rounded edge, creating a subtle and refined appearance. It is often used in offices and commercial spaces where a sleek, unobtrusive look is desired. 

It is beneficial for creating clean lines and smooth transitions between surfaces.

8. Ovolo

The ovolo architrave profile is characterised by a quarter-round convex moulding. This classic profile is well-suited for traditional homes, adding a touch of elegance to formal living areas and entryways. 

It works well in combination with other moulding types and may be used to add a refined touch.

9. Scotia

Scotia profiles feature a concave moulding that creates a deep shadow line. They are effective in creating depth and shadow in well-lit rooms. It is often used in transitional and contemporary interiors and serves as a complementary profile to other architrave types. 

10. Bevelled

The bevelled profile has a single angled cut, creating a simple and clean appearance. This profile is ideal for modern and contemporary interiors, especially those with minimalist design schemes. 

It is often used in commercial spaces and offices where clean lines and unobtrusive transitions are desired. 

11. Decorative or ornate

Decorative or ornate profiles include intricate patterns, floral motifs or other designs. They are often used in period restorations, primarily for Victorian and Edwardian styles. Overall, they are well-suited for luxury homes and high-end commercial spaces. 

Ornate and decorative profiles serve as a focal point in a room. 

How to Cut and Measure an Architrave

Precise cutting and measuring are important skills to adopt for achieving a professional and long-lasting architrave installation. The following techniques greatly improve accuracy, efficiency and the overall quality of the finished architrave.

Digital angle finder

Use a digital angle finder to measure corners and joints precisely. This tool is especially valuable when working with non-standard angles or in older buildings where walls may not be square. 

Simply place the device against the surface to get an accurate reading of the angle.

• Increases precision in cutting angles, reducing waste and rework
• Allows for perfect mitres even in challenging spaces
• Saves time by quickly providing exact measurements

Laser measuring devices

Laser distance meters offer quick and highly accurate measurements. Position the device at 1 end of the space, aim the laser at the target and press precise measurements. It is particularly useful in larger spaces. 

• Improves efficiency by limiting the need for a second person to hold the tape
• Provides precise measurements over long distances
• Calculates areas and volumes; useful for material estimation

Coping technique for internal corners

For internal corners, use the coping method instead of simple mitring. Cut 1 piece of architrave square to fit flush against the wall. With the adjoining piece, cut a 45-degree mitre, then use a coping saw to cut along the profiled edge. 

Slightly undercut the back of the cope for a tighter fit.

• Creates seamless internal corners even if walls are not completely square
• Allows for wood movement without exposing gaps
• Offers a more professional finish

Scarf joints for long runs

When joining the architrave along a straight run, use a scarf joint. Cut both pieces at a 45-degree angle in opposite directions. Apply adhesive and join the pieces, ensuring a tight fit. This provides a much stronger and less visible joint than a simple butt joint.

• Creates a nearly invisible joint
• Offers a larger glueing surface for a stronger bond
• Allows for wood movement without exposing the joint

Templates for repetitive cuts

Make durable templates for complex or repetitive cuts. Create these from sturdy material like MDF or plywood, carefully crafted to match the required cut. Use these templates to guide your saw or router for consistent results across multiple pieces.

• Ensures consistency across multiple pieces
• Speeds up the cutting process
• Reduces errors and waste

Pre-assembly technique

For complex door or window surrounds, pre-assemble the architrave before installation. Cut and join all pieces on a flat surface. Apply adhesive and use pocket hole joinery (angled holes and screws to join pieces together) for added strength. Once finished, install the pre-assembled unit in one piece.

• Allows for more precise joinery in a controlled environment
• Speeds up on-site installation
• Ideal for ornate or multi-piece architrave designs

Spline joinery for mitres

With extra-strong mitre joints, use spline joinery. After cutting the mitre, use a biscuit jointer to cut a slot along the mitre. Insert a thin piece of wood (the spline) into the slot with glue, clamp and dry before trimming the excess spline.

• Greatly strengthens the mitre joint
• Prevents separation over time due to wood movement
• Especially useful for large or heavy architrave profiles

Compound mitre saw with laser guide

Use a high-quality compound mitre saw with a laser guide. The laser projects a line onto the workpiece showing exactly where the cut will be made. Align your marked cut line with the laser for precise positioning before cutting.

• Provides precise angle cuts for both mitres and bevels
• The laser guide ensures accuracy before cutting
• Boosts efficiency and reduces material waste

Digital moisture meter

Before installation, use a digital moisture meter to check the moisture content of the architrave. Press the device's sensors against the wood to get a reading. Ensure the moisture content is appropriate for the installation environment to prevent future issues.

• Helps prevent future warping or shrinkage
• Ensures the material is properly acclimated to the environment
• Particularly important for solid wood architrave in areas with humidity fluctuations

How to Fit Architrave: 5 Advanced Techniques

Installing architrave is not just about cutting corners and hammering nails. Advanced techniques help you solve problems and make spaces look even better. Below, we outline these techniques for you to consider. 

1. Scribing for uneven surfaces

When working with uneven walls or floors, scribing ensures a perfect fit. Use a scribe tool to transfer the contour of the uneven surface onto the architrave. A jigsaw or hand plane is then used to cut or shape the architrave to match the irregular surface.

Scribing is key because it allows the architrave to sit flush against uneven surfaces, eliminating gaps. It is especially useful in older buildings or when installing architrave against stone or brick surfaces.

2. Steam bending for curved architrave

For rooms with curved walls or archways, steam bending creates a custom-curved architrave. This involves using a steam box to make the wood pliable enough to bend. Specialised forms or jigs are needed to shape the architrave while it is still hot and flexible. 

Once cooled and dry, the curved piece can be installed using standard methods. Steam bending allows for seamless, curved architrave installation without visible joints. This technique is particularly beneficial for creating unique finishes. 

3. Veneer wrapping for complex profiles

With complex profiles, veneer wrapping involves applying a thin wood veneer over a shaped substrate. It requires a vacuum press to adhere the veneer to the substrate. A sharp veneer saw and edge trimmer is essential for clean cuts and edges.

Veneer wrapping creates intricate profiles that would be difficult to mill from solid wood. It is beneficial when matching existing historic profiles or making custom designs, offering flexibility in wood species and grain patterns.

4. Laser-guided installation

Laser-guided installation ensures a level and aligned architrave. This method uses a laser level to project a straight line at the height where the architrave should be installed. Use a high-quality rotating laser level with a self-levelling feature for the best results. 

Mount the laser level on a sturdy tripod for stability. This technique is particularly useful for large spaces with multiple doors and windows, where maintaining a consistent height is important. 

It prevents the need for traditional levelling like chalk lines or spirit levels.

5. Vacuum-assisted mounting

Vacuum-assisted mounting offers temporary support during the installation process, particularly useful for heavy or large-format architrave. It uses portable vacuum suction cups connected to a small, quiet vacuum pump. 

Suction cups are attached to the architrave. They allow it to be precisely positioned without nails or adhesives until permanent fixings are applied. It is useful when installing door architrave on delicate surfaces where nails or adhesive residue is problematic.

6 Architrave Finishing Methods

Architrave finishing methods elevate simple mouldings by adding depth and character. Below, we explore the most effective finishing methods that transform architrave into a standout feature.

1. 2-stage caulking

Apply a first layer of caulk to fill gaps between the architrave and the wall. Allow it to dry completely, then apply a second, thinner layer for a smooth finish. Use a high-quality, paintable acrylic caulk for best results.

This 2-stage approach allows for better gap-filling without shrinkage or cracking. It creates a seamless transition between the architrave and the wall. Overall, it is useful for older properties and uneven walls, and stepped or bevelled architrave with sharp edges. 

2. Grain filling for open-grained wood

For open-grained woods like oak, use a grain filler before final finishing. Apply the filler across the grain, allow it to dry and then sand smooth. Repeat if necessary for a completely smooth surface.

Grain filling creates a flawlessly smooth surface on open-grained woods, which is especially important for high-gloss finishes. This enhances the appearance of profiles with flat surfaces, like chamfered or torus architraves.

3. Spray finishing

Use a high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) spray system to apply paint or clear finish. Mask off adjacent areas carefully and apply multiple thin coats for the best result. Spray finishing offers a smooth finish free from brush marks. 

It is especially effective for intricate profiles like decorative or ornate architraves, where brush application might leave streaks.

4. Colour washing

Apply a base coat of paint, then brush on a diluted top coat of a contrasting colour. Partially remove the top layer of paint or glaze in certain areas to reveal the underlying colour. Colour washing adds depth, creating a subtle, aged appearance. 

It is particularly effective on profiles with multiple facets like stepped or scotia architraves because it highlights the different planes.

5. Gilding

Apply a special adhesive (size) to the architrave, then carefully lay gold or silver leaf. Once dry, burnish for a high shine and seal with a clear protective coat. Gilding adds a touch of luxury, perfect for high-end interiors or period restorations. 

Gliding is striking on decorative profiles or to highlight specific elements of an ornate architrave.

6. Textured finish

Apply a textured paint or add fine sand to regular paint for a subtle texture. This can be done with a roller, brush or spray gun depending on the desired effect.

A textured finish hides minor imperfections in the architrave or wall and adds visual interest. It is especially useful in contemporary settings and works well with modern profiles like a torus or bevelled architrave.