Best Exterior Window Crown Molding and Crossheads for Curb Appeal
For exterior window trim with a crown-like profile, crossheads are a practical choice: they sit above a window and create a decorative focal point. The Ekena Millwork Craftsman Crosshead is best for a taller, more substantial look, while the Seville suits a wider opening with a shallower profile. These factory-primed options are designed for interior or exterior use and can be attached with fully bonded adhesive or nails. Check each product’s dimensions against your window before ordering.
| Product | Best For | Key Dimension |
|---|---|---|
| Craftsman Crosshead | Tall, prominent trim | 7 1/4 in. high |
| Seville Crosshead | Wide openings | 48 in. bottom width |
| Holmdel Crosshead | Moderate-height detail | 4 5/8 in. high |
| Classic Crosshead | Traditional, restrained styling | 4 1/2 in. high |
| Traditional Crosshead with Dentil Trim | Decorative traditional façades | 7 1/4 in. high |
Ekena Craftsman Crosshead
This Craftsman-style crosshead measures 37 inches across the bottom, 41 inches across the top, 7 1/4 inches high, and 1 inch deep. Its taller profile makes it a strong option when a window needs a more prominent architectural feature.
Best for: Homeowners seeking substantial exterior window trim with a Craftsman-inspired look. It is factory primed and intended for both exterior and interior applications. The listed installation options are fully bonded adhesive or nails.
Consider: Its height may look oversized above a small window. Measure the available space and compare the bottom and top widths before choosing.
Ekena Seville Crosshead
The Seville crosshead has a 48-inch bottom width, 51 1/4-inch top width, 5 1/2-inch height, and 1/2-inch projection. Its wider dimensions make it better suited to broader windows or openings where a narrower piece may appear undersized.
Best for: Buyers who want a wide decorative header without as much projection from the wall. Like the other listed Endurathane crossheads, it comes factory primed, is described for interior and exterior applications, and can be installed with adhesive or nails.
Consider: The 48-inch bottom width is larger than several other options here. Confirm the full dimensions fit the window and surrounding trim.
Ekena Holmdel Crosshead
The Holmdel measures 42 inches at the bottom, 43 1/2 inches at the top, 4 5/8 inches high, and 1 1/8 inches deep. Its dimensions provide a middle ground between low-profile trim and taller, more prominent crossheads.
Best for: Buyers who want noticeable detailing without the 7 1/4-inch height of the larger Craftsman and Traditional models. It arrives factory primed and is listed for interior and exterior use, with adhesive or nails as installation options.
Consider: Its projection is 1 1/8 inches, so compare that depth with adjacent trim and the intended appearance before installation.
Ekena Classic Crosshead
This Classic Crosshead is 42 inches wide at the bottom and 48 inches wide at the top, with a 4 1/2-inch height and 1/2-inch projection. The lower height and shallow projection make it a more restrained choice than the taller, deeper models.
Best for: Buyers looking for a traditional crosshead that does not project as far from the wall. It is factory primed, intended for exterior or interior applications, and can be installed with fully bonded adhesive or nails.
Consider: The top width is six inches greater than the bottom width. Check the full width and profile against the window layout rather than measuring only the bottom edge.
Ekena Traditional Crosshead With Dentil Trim
This traditional-style crosshead includes trim and dentil trim. It measures 40 inches across the bottom, 43 7/8 inches across the top, 7 1/4 inches high, and 1 inch deep, combining a taller profile with added decorative detail.
Best for: Buyers aiming for a more formal or classically detailed exterior window surround. It is factory primed and listed for interior and exterior applications; installation can use fully bonded adhesive or nails.
Consider: The dentil detail and taller height create a more pronounced look than a simple, low-profile header. Check that the style suits the surrounding exterior trim.
Buying Guide: How To Choose Exterior Window Crossheads
What size crosshead should go above a window?
Compare the product’s bottom width, top width, height, and projection with the window and nearby trim. Do not assume the listed bottom width is the piece’s widest measurement. Allow for the wider top where applicable, and check the available vertical space above the opening.
How much visual detail do you want?
Choose a simpler profile, such as the Classic, for a restrained appearance. The Craftsman offers greater height, while the Traditional model adds dentil trim. Match the profile to the home’s existing architectural details so the new piece does not appear out of place.
Does factory primed mean ready to install?
Factory priming means the product is primed and ready to paint according to the listing; it does not remove the need to confirm fit or plan installation. These crossheads are described as suitable for interior and exterior applications and list fully bonded adhesive or nails as attachment options. Follow the product and installation instructions for preparation and fastening.
Is a crosshead the same as crown molding?
Not exactly. Crown molding commonly runs along a wall or ceiling edge, while a crosshead is a decorative horizontal feature installed above a window or door. For exterior window trim searches, crossheads can provide a crown-like accent over an opening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can these crossheads be used outdoors?
The listed Endurathane crossheads are described as suitable for exterior and interior applications. Check the product instructions for installation and finishing requirements.
Can I install a crosshead with nails?
The listed installation options include nails or fully bonded adhesive. Choose the method appropriate to the product and installation surface, and follow the manufacturer’s guidance.
Should the crosshead be wider than the window?
That depends on the intended design and surrounding trim. Compare the crosshead’s bottom and top widths with the opening and existing casing before selecting a size.
Do these products arrive painted?
The Endurathane crossheads are described as factory primed and ready to paint. The product information does not describe them as arriving with a finished paint coat.