An architrave is the moulding that fits around the frameworks of internally doors, windows, and loft hatches. Architrave functions to hide shrinkage and movement between the door and wall which subsequently occurs. It is only fitted to the framework after all the wall/ceiling surfaces have been finished and before decoration.

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Below Provides You A Guideline On How To Fit An Architrave

Marking Out The Framework

1. The architrave normally sits about 4 to 5mm from the edge of the framework. This is because if it sits too near the edge, it can restrict the operation of the hinge and lock/catch striking plate. Try to keep the size/style of architrave moulding and the margin around the framework the same throughout your home.
2. Mark the framework with the required gap across each corner and about 200mm apart around the framework. Make sure that all the marks are parallel to the edge of the framework and equally set back.

Marking And Cutting The Architrave

Use a mitre block to cut the 45 degree mitres on the architrave. Make sure you have the markings and cuttings correct.

1. Start with the head piece (the one that sit on top of the frame). This will have both ends cut with a 45 degree mitre.
2. Once the first mitre has been cut, offer up the length to the markings on the framework across the top of the door and position the ‘heel’ of the mitre to the vertical marking on the side framework (Figure 1).
3. Mark on the other end of the architrave the vertical mark on the other frame, then cut the mitre on the other end.
4. Mitre cut on the other two vertical architrave.

Fixing The Architrave

1. Start with the head piece across the top of the framework.
2. Line it with the horizontal margin markings, making sure that the mitred corners sits correctly with the vertical margin markings.
3. Use a 50mm lost head nail to fix the architrave half way across the framework timber and near the edge of the architrave. Do not drive the nail all the way.
4. Add more nails about 30mm away from each end.
5. Make sure that the architrave remains lined up with the horizontal margin markings.
6. Do the same with the two side architrave, nailing from the top and bottom edge then in spaces between as you did with the head piece.
7. Then drive all the nails flush with the architrave.
8. Punch them slightly below the surface.
9. Cover the nail heads with filler before painting.