uPVC windows have become a more popular option for homeowners, thanks to the durability and next to no maintenance they require. Many are installed in white, cream, or other bright colours, and while their colours are long-lasting, because of changing trends you may wonder like so many other homeowners, can you change the colour of your uPVC window frames?
If you’re looking for answers to that question and related issues, you’ve come to the right place as that is what we are going to discuss in the following post.
We want to first make it clear; we DO NOT recommend trying to change the colour of your uPVC windows by painting them yourself! There are various reasons for this including losing the warranty on your windows, the high potential for ruining your windows, losing the built-in ease of maintenance that uPVC windows provide and that the windows aren't designed to be painted over. All factors discussed from here on are strictly informational and not recommended. We recommend installing new, affordable windows if you want the best and safest results from upgrading your windows.
At Affordable Windows, we are also happy to give you a no-obligation free quote on a brand new set of uPVC windows at a price you can afford:
Should You Paint Your uPVC Windows and Doors?
So, with all of the above in mind, you may be wondering if painting your uPVC windows and other features is the right thing to do. It is certainly less expensive than having new windows installed, that's for sure.
But ideally, we recommend you don't paint uPVC windows or doors. Why? The purpose of uPVC is that it's low maintenance from the start and is weather-resistant without having to paint over your window or door frames.
You're essentially taking away many of the positives of uPVC windows in the first place and putting yourself in a position where you'll need to continuously maintain and repaint your upvc windows/doors.
The other words of caution we would note is that as the process of spray painting uPVC windows and door frames includes sanding them, even just gently, it does cause irreversible damage.
As well as considering the implications sanding and painting is going to have on their longevity, you should check whether you are still within your warranty period and if sanding and painting them will void the warranty on your windows.
If you really still want a change of colour, and do not need new windows, then spray painting would be the most cost-effective and easiest paint option you have. Especially compared to alternatives like vinyl wrapping the windows.
In the end, it comes down to your own personal choice, but nothing will quite have the same effect as getting a new set of quality windows.
Can I Paint My uPVC Windows Frames a Different Colour?
Technically, yes, in most situations, you can paint your uPVC windows. The only real exception is if your uPVC windows are brand new.
You should avoid painting new windows because, during manufacturing, an extra layer is added to the frames to give them a shiny appearance. You won’t be able to paint on this until after 12 months at least.
You'll also want to be absolutely sure you know what you're doing when painting them as getting it wrong could cost you more than your bucket of paint!
At Affordable Windows, we are also happy to give you a no-obligation free quote on a brand new set of uPVC windows at a price you can afford:
How Do I Change the Colour of My uPVC? Step By Step Painting Guide
Now you know that you can change the colour of your uPVC window frames, you are probably wondering how you go about it.
Although, firstly, as you know we DON'T recommend doing this.
But if you decide to, you should get a professional painter and decorator contractor, especially one who has experience working with uPVC windows.
Most professionals tend to use some kind of paint sprayer when it comes to changing the colour or touching up uPVC.
This is because you get a smoother and even layer of paint and avoid the streaks that brush painting can cause.
However, the negatives we mentioned earlier from repainting your uPVC windows and doors remain regardless.
If you still want to do it yourself, Dulux recommend taking the following steps: (A reminder that the below is simply for informational purposes and is from the Dulux site - rather than something we recommend)
Step One – Clean The Windows Thoroughly
It is important to clean all windows and any door frames you are colouring too thoroughly, to make sure any dirt, dust and debris are removed.
This prevents anything from ruining the effect of the paint and ensures a smooth finish.
Step Two - Use Protective Coverings
Before you start sanding and eventually painting, you need to protect all glazing and your property’s exterior to make sure you only get paint on the window and door frames and nothing else.
Step Three - Gently Sand Down the Windows or Doors
Once you have protective coverings in place and have cleaned the frames thoroughly, you next need to sand down the windows gently to create a more abrasive surface that the paint will adhere to properly.
Step Four - Coat of Primer
The last step before actually painting your uPVC windows is that you need to make sure that the paint will settle and take to the surface and applying a layer of primer can help do that.
Step Five - Spray Paint or Use a Brush to Paint Your uPVC Windows or Doors
Evenly spray paint at least three layers. Your windows may require more than three layers. It all depends on the colour you choose.
Step Six - Let the Paint Dry
You should let the paint dry for at least 30 minutes. Remember to inspect the finish and make sure there it is dry, even, and smooth. (Ideally, pick a day where it is over 10 degrees celsius to allow it to dry)
Step Seven - Remove the Coverings
Once they are dry, you can remove the protective coverings you used on your windows.
Alternative Ways to Change the Colour of uPVC Windows
As we want to provide you with all the options, even if they're not recommended, there are also alternatives to painting your uPVC windows.
Although quite expensive, using vinyl wrap to change the colour does not require any sanding or other alterations.
Your windows need to be clean and dry before you or a professional starts, so that the surface is smooth, but that’s it.
While they do not cause any permanent damage to the actual uPVC, the vinyl wrap itself does not last an extended length of time.
It is also prone to bubbling if you get it wrong.
In fact, most companies including us, suggest the vinyl wrapping does not last more than approximately five years before it loses its grip and starts to crack and peel away.
Definitely not recommended.
How Much Does It Cost to Change the Colour of A uPVC Window?
Before you start choosing the colours and deciding whether you are going to have them spray painted or not, it makes sense that you would want to know how much it will cost to have your uPVC windows painted.
This will vary from contractor to contractor. Primarily the cost will come down to a combination of the labour charges and how many uPVC windows and other features your property actually has that you want painted.
The style of windows and how simple or complex they are, will also be taken into consideration.
However, if you are looking for a number to make sure you have enough set-aside and will be able to afford it, we estimate it would cost at least £100-£200 per window, depending on the contractor.
Summary
Ultimately, painting your uPVC windows comes with great risk to both the looks, resistance and easy maintenance of your windows.
As professional window fitters with decades of experience, it is not something we can recommend to our clients in good faith.
Purchasing new, high-quality windows doesn't have to cost the earth. At Affordable Windows, we pride ourself on quality at a price accessible to the general public.
At Affordable Windows, we are happy to provide you with a no-obligation, FREE quote on a brand new set of uPVC windows at a price you can afford:
