At The Spraying Team, we've seen how a fresh coat of paint can completely transform the look of plastic windows. Many property owners don't realise that their tired-looking upvc windows don't need replacing - they can be painted for a fraction of the cost. As specialists in window spraying across the UK, we've helped countless homeowners revitalise their properties. In this guide, we'll share our expertise on how to paint uPVC windows and doors, from preparation to finishing touches, to help you understand the process.
UPVC windows are durable and widely used in properties across the country. However, over time, white upvc windows can yellow or become discoloured. Instead of the costly option to replace your windows, painting offers a cost-effective alternative.
Painting upvc windows can:
Many homeowners worry that upvc can't be painted, but with the right tools, products and techniques, upvc windows can be successfully painted to achieve a perfect finish that's both attractive and durable.
Selecting the right paint is crucial when painting upvc. Regular household paint won't work well, resulting in peeling and a poor finish.
For the best results when you paint your upvc, use specialised coatings designed specifically for plastic surfaces. These paints:
When selecting paint for upvc windows, look for products labelled as suitable for plastic surfaces. These specialised coatings typically contain adhesion promoters that ensure a long-lasting finish.
At The Spraying Team, we use professional-grade paint systems that provide exceptional durability and flawless results on upvc surfaces.
Proper preparation is absolutely essential for painting upvc. Skipping or rushing this stage will result in poor adhesion and disappointing results.
First, wash all window frames with warm soapy water to remove surface dirt, cobwebs, and grime. For stubborn marks, use a mild cleaner. You must ensure the surface is completely clean before you continue.
Lightly sand the upvc with fine-grit sandpaper. This creates a slightly textured surface for the paint to grip onto. Be careful not to sand too deeply - you just need to remove the glass-like finish and create a key for the primer.
After sanding, wipe away all dust with a damp cloth and allow the frames to dry completely.
A suitable primer is vital for painting upvc windows. The primer creates a bond between the plastic surface and the paint. Apply a thin coat of primer specifically designed for upvc or plastic surfaces.
Allow the primer to become completely dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. This typically takes a few hours, but it's best to wait longer in cooler weather.
Once your preparation is complete and the primer is fully dry, you're ready to begin painting your upvc windows.
There are three main ways to apply paint to upvc:
For DIY jobs, a combination of roller for larger areas and brush for details often works well.
When painting upvc:
Avoid painting in direct sunlight, as this can cause the paint to dry too quickly and not level properly.
Before you start painting:
Taking time to mask properly will save you hours of clean-up work afterward.
Painting upvc windows can present challenges. Here's how to avoid the most common issues:
This usually results from poor preparation. Ensure you've cleaned, sanded, and used primer correctly, and always use paint specifically formulated for upvc.
Often caused by applying paint too thickly or not allowing proper drying time between coats. Apply thin, even layers and be patient with drying times.
To ensure colour consistency, mix all your paint together before starting if using multiple tins of the same colour. This creates a more uniform finish across all your windows.
While painting upvc windows yourself is possible, professional spraying offers significant advantages:
The Spraying Team provides professional window spraying services across the UK, transforming properties with minimal disruption.
White upvc windows have been the standard for decades, but painting allows for creativity. Here are some popular colour choices:
With custom colour matching, you can achieve virtually any colour to suit your property's style.
Properly painted upvc requires minimal maintenance:
With the right care, your painted windows will look fresh for many years before needing recoating.
Choosing to paint rather than replace your windows offers environmental advantages:
By painting your existing windows, you're making a more sustainable choice for your property upgrade.
The cost to paint upvc windows varies depending on several factors:
On average, professional window spraying costs between £60–120 per window, while DIY materials might cost £100–200 for an entire house project. For those wondering how much does it cost to spray uPVC windows, this makes it clear that compared to the thousands spent on replacement uPVC windows, painting offers tremendous savings.
If you're considering refreshing the look of your property, The Spraying Team offers professional window spraying services that provide durable, flawless results. Our expert technicians use specialised equipment and premium paint systems to transform your property.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote. We cover properties across the UK and can help you choose the perfect colour to refresh your home's appearance.
From simple white refreshes to bold colour transformations, we have the expertise to achieve your vision with minimal disruption to your property.