If you’re planning to redecorate your house, you’re probably wondering if you can match your windows to the new design, right?! So, in short, can you paint vinyl windows? Yes, you definitely can, but we’re not sure you’ll want to do this because you may regret it long-term. Keep reading, and you’ll find out why!
Key Takeaways
- Painting vinyl windows is a cost-effective way to update the aesthetic of a home, but it carries the risk of voiding the manufacturer’s warranty.
- The paint will not be as long-lasting as the original vinyl finish. It can chip, flake, and peel over time.
- Before applying the paint on vinyl windows, you should clean the surface properly, sand it if needed, and cover all the surfaces that won’t be painted. Equip yourself with vinyl-safe primer and paint.
- Regular maintenance through cleaning and inspections, as well as considering alternatives, such as vinyl wrapping, can preserve the appearance of painted vinyl windows or provide non-permanent color change options. Alternatively, you can opt to replace your windows altogether.
Can You Paint Vinyl Windows? Pros and Cons
We all get bored of our houses once in a while, right?! Sometimes, we change the decor or buy a new sofa. Other times, we’re up for a major change that completely alters the initial design.
Let’s say your living room has a bright design, and now you want to darken it – this implies painting the windows, of course, because they won’t fit in the room anymore. So that’s the most important advantage – you get to be happy with your new interior. But is it worth it? Should you paint vinyl windows in this case?
If your windows are approaching the end of their lifespan – sure, you can go for it because you don’t have too much to lose if they need to be replaced in a few years anyway. Can you paint vinyl windows that have been installed recently? That’s a different story.
Here’s why you should think twice before deciding to paint vinyl windows:
- The warranty. For one thing, painting vinyl window frames will most likely void their warranty, so you’ll be saying goodbye to any warranty-covered repairs. As such, before deciding whether to paint vinyl windows or not, ensure to read the warranty carefully and consider all your options and risks.
- Painting your vinyl windows isn’t easy. Vinyl is basically plastic, and painting plastic is no easy task. The paint may not stick to your vinyl window frames because they have a slippery surface. You’ll need to sand them before applying the paint, and even so, you’ll likely need to reapply the paint in a few years. The paint may chip, flake, bubble, and peel. Even if you use professional, high-quality paint, it won’t last as long as the original vinyl finish.
- Dark colors may damage the windows. You should choose the color carefully. If you want to paint vinyl windows black, you have to consider that your windows will absorb more heat, which can damage your window frame over time. It can warp and contract in extreme temperatures. We know that painting vinyl windows black is quite a popular trend nowadays, but it carries major risks.
- Dark-colored windows are difficult to paint. While you can definitely try turning light-colored vinyl windows into dark-colored windows, you won’t be able to do the reverse.
- Low property value. Don’t forget that painting vinyl windows may equal lowering your property value. Window warranties are often transferrable, so if you paint your windows and eventually sell your house, this can play a role in the final price.
All in all, we’ve done our duty and informed you about the risks of painting vinyl windows. If you’re still up for it, keep reading, as we’ve prepared a comprehensive guide on how to do this!
Necessary Preparations for Painting Vinyl Windows
Before the makeover starts, it’s crucial to prepare the surface. This way, you can ensure that the color not only dazzles but endures!
Here are the steps you’ll need to follow if you decide to paint or repaint vinyl windows:
- Thoroughly clean the windows to ensure proper adhesion of the paint.
- Sand the frames to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to.
- Mask off the areas you want to protect from the paint.
- Apply the primer in one or two layers and let it dry.
- Apply the paint to the frames, using even strokes and multiple thin coats for best results.
Each step is crucial in making sure that the paint will stick and last.
Here are the materials you’ll need to paint vinyl window frames:
- Vacuum
- A soft cloth and dish soap for cleaning
- Acetone if needed
- Sandpaper
- Tape or Mask & Peel
- Vinyl-safe primer
- Vinyl-safe paint
- Spray paint or brushes
- Razor blade or paint scraper
Cleaning the Surface
Dust and grime can hinder paint adhesion. You can use a vacuum first to remove any visible dust. Then, clean the windows with a lint-free cloth soaked in diluted dish soap.
Afterward, rinse the surface to clean the soap. Only when the surface feels rough to the touch and free of all dust and dirt can we move to the next vital step.
Some window paint specialists also recommend cleaning the windows with acetone, as it’s excellent at removing debris and oils.
Sanding the Frames
Once your vinyl window frames are clean, it’s time to prepare the surface. Sanding will roughen it up so that it doesn’t repel liquids.
You should use gentle 220- or 240-grit sandpaper and apply it on every window area until you feel that it’s rough to the touch. After this, clean the surface again to remove any dust.
Masking Off Non-Paintable Areas
Painting vinyl windows requires precision, focusing not only on the areas you paint but also on those you leave untouched.
Cover the windows, the handles, the weatherproofing, the walls, and anything else you do not want to paint. Unfortunately, this can be quite time-consuming if you want your newly painted windows to acquire a professional look.
You can try using the Mask & Peel product, which is much more efficient than taping. Once your vinyl windows are clean, apply the solution to the glass, and wait until it dries. Then, you can apply the paint where needed, and once it dries, simply cut Mask & Peel at the trim line.
Choosing the Right Paint and Primer for Vinyl Windows
Before actually starting painting, you have to choose a vinyl-safe primer and paint.
A primer is basically a preparatory coating that helps the paint adhere to the surface. Besides this, the primer increases the paint’s durability. Specialists usually recommend an alkyd-based one, as it works well on vinyl. This is an oil-based primer.
Other professionals advise homeowners to use a bonding primer, which works excellently on glossy surfaces. If you’re unsure which one to choose, go for Sherwin Williams’ Extreme Bond Primer.
Apply one or two layers of primer on the window frames and let them dry overnight. By this, we mean that you have to apply one thin coat and let it dry overnight. Then, apply the second one if needed and, again, let it dry overnight. Only then can you paint your window frames.
When it comes to vinyl-safe paint options, it is generally recommended to use acrylic paint or latex paint because they have superior adhesion properties. In addition, they last longer than other paint types. Don’t forget to check if the paint you’ve chosen offers UV protection.
In the GTA, for example, industrial-grade vinyl paint like PROLUX is chosen for its spray-painting prowess. It can also be used on other vinyl surfaces, including vinyl siding.
Color Considerations
If you want to paint your vinyl windows, you should know that you likely won’t be able to choose any color you want. Specialists advise homeowners to choose colors with a light reflectance value of 55 or greater. This number goes from 0 to 100, where 0 is the most heat-absorbing color, and 100 is the least heat-absorbing.
Now, you might be wondering why so many dark shades are seemingly vinyl-safe and why so many people paint vinyl windows black, right? The thing is that dark paints usually don’t have the black pigment, which can make all the difference. Nonetheless, specialists still do not recommend making a drastic color change – from white to black, for example.
It’s better to stick to lighter shades if you live in an area with a hot climate. Otherwise, you risk damaging your vinyl windows even if the paint contains no black pigments.
In addition, as already mentioned, you can paint white window frames with, let’s say, light green paint, but you likely won’t be able to paint dark green vinyl windows with white paint.
You can choose either spray paint or a brush to apply the paint on your vinyl windows. If you choose the former, you’ll have to be extra careful when covering the adjacent areas because the paint will be all over the surrounding surface.
Finishing Touches and Cleanup
Once the paint dries off, use a razor blade or a paint scraper to remove any paint stains. Set it at a 45-degree angle and push it away from you. Make sure not to pull it toward you because this will leave scratches.
Afterward, you can apply solvent to remove any remaining grime, then wipe the surface with a clean, dry cloth.
With the tape and plastic gone, take a step back and admire your work! The cleanup is simple but essential, as it sets the stage for your windows to shine without a hint of the process that transformed them! Enjoy your new window design!
Maintaining Painted Vinyl Windows
The process doesn’t stop once the last coat of paint has dried. A solid maintenance routine is key to keeping your painted vinyl windows as good as new.
We recommend cleaning the glass panes first and leaving the frames for later:
- Use a mix of vinegar and water or a commercial glass cleaner to clean the window panes.
- Rinse the glass with water to remove any residue.
- Dry the glass quickly to prevent any watermarks.
Use a soft cloth and soap to clean your vinyl windows. You can also use a soft-bristle brush to remove any dirt that doesn’t come off with the cloth or clean any textured surfaces.
Make sure not to use any highly acidic or abrasive solutions and cleaning materials because they can damage your windows and cause the paint to peel.
Don’t forget to check for wear and tear signs and cracks that can cause water or air leakage. Lubricate the window mechanism regularly as instructed by the manufacturer.
If you notice that the paint starts peeling or chipping away, repaint your windows as soon as possible. If possible, use the same paint you’ve previously applied, especially if you want to keep the same style and design.
Alternatives to Painting Vinyl Windows
Painting isn’t the only option for changing the color of your interior or exterior frames. Vinyl wrapping, for instance, offers a quick and effective color change, ideal for those who fancy a switch from white to black without the permanence of paint. Vinyl wrapping means, just as the name implies, wrapping your windows in colored vinyl. This method is used not only for windows. However, you’ll likely need to hire a professional because the process is more complicated.
Another option is, of course, to replace your windows. If they’re already old and aren’t covered by warranty, you may as well consider replacement windows. Although painting vinyl windows doesn’t cost as much as replacing them, the investment is definitely worth considering. You won’t only be able to choose whatever color you want but also increase the value of your property.
Windows from Magic can feature colour on one side or be painted on both the interior and exterior. Magic can match nearly any paint colour, making the colour options virtually endless.
If you’re looking for window replacement services, book a free in-house consultation with Magic!
Summary
To paint or not to paint… This is the question! Quite a difficult decision, isn’t it? On the one hand, changing your windows’ color can drastically affect the overall interior. On the other hand, it may void your warranty and shorten your windows’ lifespan.
While we do not recommend painting vinyl windows, the ultimate choice is up to you! Nothing can stand in one’s way when it comes to home design, right?!
If you decide not to take the risk and install replacement windows, Magic experts can’t wait to hear from you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of paint on my vinyl windows?
No, it’s best to use acrylic or latex paints specifically formulated for vinyl, known as vinyl-safe paints, for good adhesion and longevity.
Will painting my vinyl windows void the warranty?
Yes, painting your vinyl windows can potentially void the manufacturer’s warranty, so it’s important to check the warranty terms before proceeding.
How often should I inspect and touch up my painted vinyl windows?
Inspect and touch up your painted vinyl windows seasonally and apply touch-ups whenever you notice signs of wear like peeling, cracking, or fading.
Are there any alternatives to painting vinyl windows if I want to change the color?
Yes, you can consider vinyl wrapping as an alternative to painting if you want to change the color of your vinyl windows. These options provide a variety of colors and textures, along with durability and strong warranties.
How do I clean my painted vinyl windows without damaging the paint?
To clean your painted vinyl windows without damaging the paint, use warm water with a mild detergent and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive cleaners, harsh chemicals, or power washers to prevent scratching or discoloration of the paint.