Window Jamb Extensions

The walls of the Momplex are almost a foot thick, so we'll need something to extend the window jambs flush to the drywall.

We've gone back and forth on what material to use.

We considered different composite materials, but because of the potential for water damage due to exteme cold weather condensation (not likely because of the super insulated walls, but were not taking chances), we passed ...

We opted not to just drywall the insides of the windows (what fun would that be?) and because drywall isn't good friends with moisture either ....

We opted not to slurge on a moisture resitant hardwood (super pricey for these widths) just because we are on a DIY budget, and whatever we do choose is just getting several coats of white paint ....

So we choose ......

Yep, plywood.

We build furniture and kitchen cabinets out of it ... so why not extend our window jambs with it?

And once all the window trim is painted, you'll never know!

Well, you'll know 'cause you're awesome and you read this blog, but you won't tell on us, will you?

We ripped the plywood into strips the width we'll need the jamb extensions to be.

We've done lots of window jamb extensions in the past. Normally, we cut each piece, nail it to the inside of the window rough opening, and then add another.

But this time, we decided to try something new and build the entire window jamb extension first, and then as a complete unit, slide it into the window rough opening.

So we cut all the window jamb extension pieces first, leaving about 1/4" to allow for shimming and getting the box in there, and drilled pocket holes with our Kreg Jig on the outsides

And then just clamped and screwed

Then hauled all the window jamb extensions upstairs.

By we, I actually mean the Ram.

There are some benefits of being preggers.

Once the windows are all hauled upstairs

We give the window openings a good cleaning.

And then here's the magic moment .... will it fit???

Our meticulous efforts to build everything super square paid off - the window slid right in perfectly!

But we got them in!

The window jamb extensions fit in perfectly, but we'll wait until after we attach the outer trim before nailing them to the framing.

It's these little tasks, one by one, that are starting to make the Momplex look more like Mom's home.

We are so excited .... just gotta put doors in and we'll be on to trim!

XO Ana