If your white uPVC is looking tired, or you simply fancy a new colour, painting can be a budget-friendly refresh. It is not as simple as brushing on any old paint, though. Done properly it can last for years. Done carelessly it will peel within months.
The short answer
Yes, you can paint uPVC as long as you use a paint designed for it. Ordinary gloss and masonry paints do not grip the plastic and will flake off.
How to do it
- Clean the frames thoroughly with warm soapy water and let them dry completely.
- Lightly key the surface with fine sandpaper so the primer has something to hold on to.
- Wipe away the dust and mask off glass, seals and hardware.
- Apply a uPVC-specific primer, then two thin coats of a paint made for uPVC, allowing the recommended drying time between each.
- Paint in dry, mild weather and avoid direct hot sun while the paint cures.
A word on colour
Very dark colours absorb heat, and on sun-facing windows this can cause frames to expand. Choose a colour that is no darker than the manufacturer recommends, or ask a specialist.
Consider the alternatives
If you want a long-lasting colour change, new frames in a factory-applied colour finish will outlast any DIY paint job and come with a guarantee. We supply windows and doors in a wide range of colours and finishes, so get in touch if you are weighing up the options.