Can You Paint UPVC Windows?

A common question we get asked by our customers is; can you paint UPVC windows? The simple answer is yes, you can paint UPVC windows and doors. For many homeowners, a quick way of refreshing their home exterior is by adding a new paint colour for that extra curb appeal. However, painting UPVC windows is no simple task.

Do Not Paint New UPVC Windows

If you are looking to paint your UPVC windows and you are researching how to do it, the first bit of advice is not to paint your windows if they are new. The reason for this is due to the resins on UPVC materials. During the manufacturing process, an extra layer of plastic is added to the windows that makes the UPVC appear shiny. This is not a surface you can paint on, so any UPVC that has been newly installed should be left for a minimum of 12 months before attempting to paint over the top.

Why Do People Choose to Paint UPVC Window Frames? 

UPVC is a hard-wearing material and is one of the most affordable and popular window material choices in the UK. Hardwearing, durable, easy to clean, and stylish, it’s no wonder that UPVC windows are a widely popular choice.

However, preferences change and often homeowners update their home interior and exterior few years. This is when most homeowners choose to update their UPVC windows by painting them a different colour.

What Colour Can You Paint UPVC Windows? 

If you’re wondering what colour you can paint your UPVC windows, the answer is whatever colour you would like. When it comes to choosing a window colour, the option you go for is really up to you. However, it is important to choose paints that are able to adhere well into plastic surfaces. Many paints are not made for applying to plastic products, so you must choose a product that can chemically achieve this. We also recommend choosing a paint that is able to withstand UV effects and resist solar bleaching so that the colour lasts longer.

How Do You Paint UPVC Windows? 

Many people ask, can you spray paint UPVC windows? The best method for painting UPVC windows is spraying. Window spraying is the best technique to paint UPVC windows and is used by professionals around the country. Spraying ensures you get a smooth, professional finish and you avoid streaks and other marks caused by brush painting. However, painting UPVC windows is no easy task and to get a professional finish, you will have to be diligent and follow our advice.

Apply Protective Coverings: the first step is to apply protective coverings to your window glazing and around the exterior of your home. This will protect your property and ensure you only paint your UPVC window frames and not the rest of your house along with it. 

Clean all Windows: thoroughly clean all window and door frames, ensuring they get a deep clean and any debris, dust, and dirt is properly removed. This will help ensure that there is nothing which may affect the paint from adhering to the surface properly, altering the smooth effect. 

Gently Sand the Windows: once all windows have been thoroughly cleaned, the next step is to create a slightly abrasive surface by gently sanding your windows. This helps ensure that the paint will adhere to the surface more effectively, creating and smooth and even finish. 

Apply a Layer of Primer: administering a layer of primer to the surface of your windows before painting will help the paint settle onto the surface more easily, resulting in a high-quality finish. 

Spray Paint Your Windows: once the surface has been fully prepared, painting can begin. It is best to apply three layers of paint onto the UPVC as a minimum, but depending on your chosen colour, it could take a few more to ensure your windows are completely covered. 

Allow the Paint to Dry: once you have finished spray painting, you should leave your windows to dry for around 30 minutes. You should then inspect your windows to ensure that a perfect finish has been achieved and that there is a smooth layer of coloured paint. 

Remove Protective Coverings: once your windows are completely dry, remove all protective coverings to reveal your your newly painted windows.

Your Questions Answered 

• Can you paint UPVC window trim? Yes. 
• Can you paint brown UPVC windows white? With the right paint, and plenty of primer, yes. 
• Can you paint UPVC window sills? Yes, you can paint an entire window frame.
• Can you paint white UPVC windows grey? Yes, you can paint them any colour you choose. 
• Can you paint UPVC doors and windows? Yes, you can also paint UPVC front doors. 
• Can you paint UPVC windows inside? Yes, you can paint UPVC window frames inside as well as outside.

What Do the Professionals Recommend? 

Here at South Coast Home Improvements, we have a team of qualified and experienced UPVC window installers available to answer your questions. We know that painting window frames is becoming increasingly popular, however it is not something we would recommend. UPVC is a material that has been designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, keep homes secure and energy-efficient, and also last for many years to come.

However, sanding the protective layering off UPVC windows and painting over them can shorten their lifetime. But the most significant disadvantage of painting UPVC  windows is that the paint will chip, crack, and become damaged over time. So, we advise that our customers avoid painting their UPVC windows.

The Disadvantages of Painting UPVC Windows 

• It is a complicated process for inexperienced painters 
• The paint will fade, chip and crack over time 
• The painting process damages the UPVC  
• Painting your windows may affect your home’s insurance policy.

The Different Types of UPVC We Sell 

We know that our customers all have different needs and requirements for their homes and that’s why we supply and install a variety of UPVC windows. We provide two Synseal window profiles: Shield and Synerjy. Both of these UPVC windows are manufactured by experts in the field and will provide your home with the benefits of energy-efficiency, security, and beauty. At South Coast Home Improvements, we take enormous pride in our work and we always work to provide UPVC windows that are customers will be happy with now and for many years to come.