There could be a number of reasons you’re thinking about painting your windows. From wanting to brighten the exterior of your home with a fresh new colour, to refreshing old paint that may have worn away or cracked. Whatever the reason for your painting project you’ll want to make sure that you’re prepared, with the right tools and paint for your windows.

In this article, we recommend the tools you will need, how to prep your windows for painting, and the step-by-step process.

Tools you will need

You want to paint your windows, but where do you start and what tools do you need?

Here’s what we recommend when painting uPVC windows:

  • a dust sheet, to avoid any paint splashing on the floor or other surfaces
  • a microfibre cloth
  • fine grade sandpaper
  • masking tape
  • uPVC primer or undercoat
  • a small paint brush for precision
  • uPVC paint or exterior paint

Preparing windows for painting

Preparing your windows for painting is an important first step. Begin by cleaning the window frames with a microfibre cloth, removing any dust or dirt. Do this with your windows open, making sure to get into all the corners.

Next, using sandpaper, lightly sand your windows to help the paint adhere to the uPVC surface. Then, use masking tape on the panes of glass and windowsill to ensure that paint doesn’t get onto these surfaces.

You’re now ready to start the painting process.

Step-by-step process

Choose your color

Once the preparation part is complete, you can choose your desired colour, if you haven’t done so already. Opt for either a uPVC paint or an exterior paint. The shop that you buy your paint from will be able to advise you if you are unsure which one to choose.

Apply primer

Using a clean paintbrush and gently apply a uPVC primer to your windows before applying any paint. We would advise applying two coats of primer, letting each layer dry between applications. This may take anything from a few hours up to one day, depending on the time of year.

Paint the first coat

Once the primer is fully dry, you can apply your first layer of paint. Using your paintbrush, apply the first coat of paint to your window frames by gently moving the brush in an up and down motion. Make sure to apply paint right into the corners.

You will need to apply at least two coats of paint and, depending on the colour you choose, maybe more. It’s important to let the paint dry between each coat.

Apply a final coat

When it comes to painting your final coat of paint, try to make sure you paint by moving your brush in one direction for a smooth and smart-looking finish.

Once dry, remove your masking tape.

Expert help and advice

We hope that you’ve found this advice on painting your windows useful but don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions that you may have.

If, rather than painting your windows, you’re looking to upgrade them, we’re more than happy to advise you on this change. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.