Can vinyl windows be painted? The response you get will depend on who you ask because this is a topic that is frequently the subject of intense debate. In the end, the answer is yes, vinyl windows can be painted, but there are specific steps that must be taken to do it correctly. Before you paint your windows, you should be aware of the dangers.
This guide will teach you how to properly paint vinyl windows and how to stay away from common painting mistakes.
Are Vinyl Windows Paintable?
The majority of the time, vinyl windows are bought by homeowners in the color of their choice, saving them from having to paint. There may be circumstances where you want to paint them. Can you, then? The solution isn’t straightforward. Though we wouldn’t advise it, you can.
Here, we’ll go over the requirements, potential dangers, and best practices for painting vinyl windows.
What Perils Can Painting Vinyl Windows Bring?
You might run some risks if you paint your vinyl windows. If you don’t clean and prime the vinyl first, before painting, the flaking and peeling paint issue is the most obvious. You should be aware of additional risks, though.
There is always a chance that you could damage your windows, for instance, if you paint them. Your warranty will likely be revoked as a result of this in many cases. Even worse, you might end up breaking your windows without realizing it. Many well-known primers contain chemicals that can soften the vinyl and undermine its structural integrity. Therefore, it’s crucial to use a primer designed specifically for use on vinyl.
Future issues with your windows may result from the paint color you chose. Applying dark paint will make the window retain more heat, which could eventually cause the frame to warp and/or the glass to crack. Your warranty will be nullified as a result, and you will be liable for any subsequent repairs or replacement fees.
Most window experts advise against painting windows yourself because they’ll clash with any color scheme you want to use for the exterior of your house. Instead, buy windows that have already been painted by the manufacturer. This guarantees the windows’ structural soundness and the continued validity of your warranty.
How To Paint Vinyl Windows The Right Way
Avoiding painting bare vinyl when painting your vinyl windows is the most crucial thing you should know. Vinyl does not have a good paint adhesion, so the paint will quickly begin flaking or peeling.
You must make sure that the windows are thoroughly cleaned and that primer is applied before you begin painting. The primer will provide a surface for the paint to adhere to, ensuring that it will remain in place for many years.
What You Should Know Before You Begin Painting Your Windows
Think about these crucial points before you head to the hardware store:
Get Paint Advice
If you want a clean finish, choosing the paint that is compatible with vinyl is crucial. Look into the VinylSafe paint colors from Sherwin-Williams and consult a professional. There are many different colors available, all of which are formulated to withstand warping or buckling when used on vinyl substrates. However, if you love the trendy dark window frames, use Sherwin-Williams paints to avoid black pigments and heat absorption. Lighter colors are less likely to cause issues. Even when layered, their darker hues will still give you the desired appearance.
Check Your Warranty
There’s a chance that painting vinyl windows will void the warranty provided by the manufacturer. The cause of this is that some paints contain chemicals that will cause the vinyl to soften and warp. Some dark hues will compromise the vinyl’s structural integrity and promote heat absorption and sun damage.
Choose Your Painter
The project must be taken on; are you prepared? Or, are you going to hire someone? Prepare yourself with sandpaper, a drop cloth, painter’s tape, plastic sheeting, cleaning supplies, and a sponge brush if you’re sure you can handle it yourself. Compare the price of purchasing everything yourself and taking time out of your day to hiring someone who already has all of these resources. For a clean finish, you might decide that the painter’s fee is worthwhile.
Consider A Replacement Instead
In order to bring your windows back to their former splendor, paint alone might not be sufficient. Think about putting money aside to get new windows. There are several benefits to purchasing replacement windows.
- You get to choose the color you want
- You’ll have a new and valid warranty
- New windows are made with better technology and offer better energy savings
How To Paint Vinyl Windows In Four Steps
- Wash the vinyl entirely. Make every effort to keep it as spotless as you can.
- Sand the vinyl. Even though you’re using a primer, use a medium-grit sanding sponge to lightly sand the vinyl. Just watch that you don’t unintentionally sand the glass!
- Prime it. Using a brush, roller, or spray, depending on which method is most convenient for you, apply the primer. A small foam roller is something we’d suggest. Tape off the glass and any other areas you don’t want to paint.
- Paint it. Painting vinyl windows could be difficult, just like painting with primer. Utilize a brush or roller that is small enough for the task. Spray paint can be used, as well as taping off everything. Simply keep the can moving and far enough away so that you don’t get drips.
Tips For Successful Painting
If we haven’t persuaded you to refrain, there are a few straightforward steps you can take to reduce your risk. For the paint to stick, primer is necessary.
Make certain the primer is appropriate for use on vinyl. An alkyd-based primer is something we suggest. You can also achieve the adhesion required to paint vinyl windows with the aid of a good bonding primer. A quality bonding primer is also available in spray cans.
After priming the windows in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, it’s time to paint. Don’t compromise on the quality of the paint here. You need long-lasting, high-quality paint.
Certain producers produce a paint that is safe for vinyl. VinylSafe paint colors from Sherwin-Williams and Colors for Vinyl from Benjamin Moore are both available. There are some products that say priming is not necessary, but we still advise it.
Conclusion
Now that you are aware of the dangers and the procedures for a perfect vinyl paint job, you can begin! Always take the time to thoroughly prepare your surface and select the proper vinyl-safe paint. You must look at the weather forecast for the upcoming week if you plan to paint the exterior frames of your home. A further weatherproofing layer that can be added is applying a clear coat. Consider your use of dark paint colors and the possibility of losing your window warranty if your home receives a lot of direct sunlight and you reside in a hot climate area. Good luck!