One question that always comes up when people start thinking about home improvements is, “Can you paint UPVC windows and doors?” While the quick answer is yes, there’s so much more that you need to consider when painting UPVC windows and doors. If you are currently thinking about painting unplasticized polyvinyl chloride windows and doors to refresh your home’s appearance, it’s important for you to first learn all of the ins and outs of painting them.
Understanding UPVC
Before we get involved in the actual painting process, it’s important for you to understand what UPVC is and why it’s so popular in modern construction. UPVC is a rigid, durable plastic material widely used for window frames and doors due to its low maintenance requirements, excellent insulation properties, and resistance to weathering. Typically white in color, UPVC has become one of the most common materials used in windows and doors.
The Case for Painting UPVC
While UPVC is known for its longevity, there are several reasons why homeowners might want to paint their UPVC windows and doors.
- Aesthetics – Perhaps the most common reason people want to paint their windows and doors is to change the colour to match a new exterior design or simply to refresh the look of the home.
- Restoration – Even though it is designed to last a long time, UPVC can become discoloured or faded. Painting it can restore it to its former glory or give it a completely new appearance.
- Cost-effectiveness – Painting is significantly cheaper than replacing entire window frames or doors.
- Customization – UPVC products often come in limited colour options. Painting them allows you to fully customize them, which allows you to personalize your home.
The Painting Process
Painting UPVC is not as straightforward as painting other materials like wood. It requires specific preparation, techniques, and products to ensure a durable and attractive finish.
1. Preparation
The most important step in painting UPVC is properly preparing the surface. If you don’t take the time to prepare the surface correctly, there is a higher chance of the paint peeling or chipping prematurely.
When cleaning the UPVC you want to use a specialized UPVC cleaner to remove any dirt, grime, or buildup. Pay close attention to corners and crevices, as dirt and debris tends to buildup in those areas.
To help the paint adhere better you want to lightly sand the UPVC with a fine-grit sandpaper to crate a slightly rough surface. But you want to be careful not to sand too aggressively, as you don’t want to cause any damage
After sanding, make sure to clean the UPVC to remove any dust. Simply use a damp cloth to wipe everything down. Be sure to rinse the cloth frequently and allow the surfaces to dry before moving forward. And don’t forget to tape off any areas you don’t want painted like hardware and window panes.
2. Priming
To successfully paint UPVC products, you must start with a primer specifically designed for UPVC. These primers are formulated to bond with the plastic surface and provide a base for the paint to stick to. Take your time and apply the primer evenly using a brush or roller. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times.
3. Painting
When it comes to your paint selection, choose a high-quality exterior paint that’s suitable for use on plastic surfaces. Many major paint manufacturers now offer products specifically designed for UPVC.
When you start painting, you want to apply the paint in thin, even coats, using a brush, roller, or spray gun. Multiple thin coats of paint are preferable to one thick coat, which helps prevent drips and ensures a smooth finish.
Let each coat of paint dry completely before applying the next. Depending on the paint and weather conditions, you may need to apply 2 to 3 coats for optimal coverage and durability.
4. Finishing Touches
After the final coat has dried, slowly remove any masking tape. If necessary, touch up any areas that need attention. You want to allow the paint to fully cure before exposing it to harsh weather conditions or cleaning. So, before painting, check the weather forecast or set up some kind of protection around the windows and doors.
Considerations and Challenges
While painting UPVC windows and doors can be a great way to update your home’s appearance, there are some things you want to keep in mind.
Warranty Implications
Painting UPVC windows or doors may void any existing manufacturer’s warranty. Before you start painting your doors or windows make sure to check the terms in your warranty..
Professional vs. DIY
While it’s possible to paint UPVC as a DIY project, it doesn’t always turn out as planned. If you aren’t 100% sure about tackling this project, hiring a professional can ensure a high-quality finish and may be worth considering, especially for complex jobs.
Weather Conditions
The ideal conditions for painting UPVC are dry, mild days with low humidity. Extreme temperatures and high humidity can affect the paint’s ability to adhere properly and may impact the final finish.
Maintenance
Painted UPVC tends to require more maintenance than unpainted surfaces. To keep your painted UPVC looking good for years to come, you must be prepared for regular cleaning and occasional touch-ups.
Color Choice
While you can choose your colours when painting your windows and doors, you should consider how darker colours might affect the UPVC. One issue with darker paint colours is that they absorb more heat than lighter colours, which can lead to warping in extreme temperatures.
The Environmental Angle
The most overlooked benefit of painting UPVC windows and doors is the potential positive environmental impact. By extending the life of existing UPVC products, homeowners delay the need for replacement, reducing the amount of UPVC going to landfills.
Some modern paints are formulated to be more environmentally friendly, with low Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) content. These paints reduce the environmental impact but they also make the painting process safer and more pleasant for both the painter and the home’s occupants.
Conclusion
Painting UPVC windows and doors is not only possible, but it’s also an excellent way to refresh your home’s appearance without the high cost of a full replacement. If you take your time and know what you are doing, you will have a durable and attractive finish that breathes new life into your UPVC surfaces.
