What is a reveal on window trim?

Author: Demetris Smitham  |  Last update: Thursday, October 2, 2025

In its simplest form, a window reveal is the timber surround of the window unit; you might refer to it as the windowsill (although technically, only the bottom horizontal component of a window is called a 'sill').

Why do you leave a reveal on window trim?

Mark the Reveal Lines

If window casing is installed flush to jamb, unintentional gaps can form over time as the wood dries or the house settles. Installing the trim slightly away from the jamb edges will help hide discrepancies. This intentional gap is called a reveal.

What is a reveal trim?

A reveal may typically be seen at the edge of a door or window, where the face molding is set back, often by a distance from 3/16" (5 mm) to 1/2" (12 mm). (This noun is unrelated to the verb reveal but is from the obsolete verb revale 'to lower, bring down,' which is related to vale and valley.)

What is the difference between a reveal and a jamb?

A jamb (from French jambe 'leg'), in architecture, is the side-post or lining of a doorway or other aperture. The jambs of a window outside the frame are called reveals.

What is a reveal edge?

A tegular/reveal edge, whether square or angular, allows the tile to protrude below the grid ceiling system and provide more depth and texture to the ceiling plane.

Installing Interior Window Trim | Beginner

What is a window reveal?

In its simplest form, a window reveal is the timber surround of the window unit; you might refer to it as the windowsill (although technically, only the bottom horizontal component of a window is called a 'sill').

What is a reveal Moulding?

The metal trim that outlines an opening, depression, or raised area of an auto body.

What is a reveal and why is it important?

The reveal (also known as the big reveal) is a plot device in narrative structure and is the exposure to the reader or audience of a previously unseen key character, or element of plot or performance.

Why do you need a reveal on door trim?

One of the primary purposes is to provide a seal around the door to prevent drafts and outside elements from entering the building. The reveal should be tight enough to create a seal, but not so tight that the door becomes difficult to open or close.

What is the wood frame around a window called?

The terms window casing and trim are used interchangeably to describe the decorative wood that surrounds the perimeter of the window to cover the space between the wall and jamb.

What is the standard trim reveal?

The standard reveal for window molding and door trim is 1/4-in., but this can be adjusted a little if needed. A combination square works well for marking reveals. The first step in any trim job is to prepare the jambs for trim. If you're replacing trim, pry it off and remove the nails from the jamb.

What is a reveal cut?

Designed with Safety in Mind

With OSHA compliance in mind, RevealCut is designed to decrease jobsite accidents by eliminating the need for dangerous manual cutting and reducing blade changes. With up to 80% less blade handling and changing, the RevealCut workstation greatly reduces opportunities for accidents to occur.

What is a frame reveal?

Double Mat When mats are layered in a picture frame, the top mat forms the main border and the bottom mat shows slightly, just around the image (called the "reveal").

What is the gap between window frame and reveal?

This gap is usually about 1/4 to 1/2 inch (that's around 6 to 12 mm). It might seem odd, but it's there for a good reason. This gives room for the materials to expand and shrink a bit when the temperature changes and also lets the building settle or shift slightly over time without messing up the window.

Do I need a window jamb?

Most homeowners may not know it, but window jambs are actually a key component of a window, for several reasons: Structural support: They help support the weight of the window and ensure that it remains securely in place. Alignment: They ensure that the window operates smoothly and fits snugly within the frame.

How to mark a trim reveal?

This intentional gap between the trim and edge is called a reveal.
  1. You'll need a set square to calculate the side lengths of the trim. ...
  2. Place a sharp pencil against the end of the set square blade, and run along the length of the jamb, drawing a line for the reveal.

What is the best reveal for door trim?

To outline it, use a combination square to mark a consistent reveal of 1/8 to 1/4 inch around the entire door frame. These marks will serve as your guide for positioning the trim. Carefully measure the reveal to create a balanced and symmetrical appearance around the door.

What is considered a window jamb?

It is the vertical sides of the window frame that run between the interior and the exterior trim or casing. The jamb is an essential component of a window and helps to keep it sturdy and secure.

What is a window or door reveal?

A Window Reveal is the surround of a window, of which the bottom forms the ledge, on which you may choose to place an item. It is technically referred to as the “reveal” or “liner”. These words are used interchangeably.

What is a window reveal depth?

The outside reveal depth gives the extent to which the glazing is offset into the wall. As shown in the diagram on the Frame and Dividers page it is the distance from the exterior surface of the wall to the glazing outer surface (in m or ft).

What is the difference between reveal and architrave?

Timber reveals play a crucial role in properly fitting the window or door into the opening, while architraves are affixed to the reveal to conceal the gap created by the plasterboard.

What is an example of reveal?

Examples of reveal in a Sentence

They revealed the plans for the new building. The expression on his face revealed how he felt. The curtain was lifted to reveal the grand prize. Pulling up the carpeting revealed the home's beautiful hardwood floors.

What is the difference between trim and moulding?

What is the Difference Between Molding and Trim? When wondering, “What is the difference between moulding and trim?”, know that trim is generally used around openings such as windows and doors, or at the corners between walls. Whereas moulding is used more for decorative use.

What are the three types of molding?

4 Types of Molding Processes: Applications and Advantages
  • 1) Compression Molding. The compression molding process is used to make rubber and plastic parts. ...
  • 2) Melt Molding. When applied to thermoplastic materials, compression molding is referred to as melt molding. ...
  • 3) Transfer Molding. ...
  • 4) Injection Molding.

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