How To Paint Andersen Vinyl Windows

Andersen windows are available in vinyl, with the older models being vinyl-clad and the newer ones being solid vinyl. While vinyl is known for being maintenance-free, it can get faded and dingy over the years, and you may want to paint it to match the colour palette of your home. Andersen windows can be painted, but it is a labour-intensive process and requires careful preparation.

Painting vinyl-clad Andersen windows

Yes, you can paint vinyl-clad Andersen windows. However, it is important to note that painting vinyl-clad windows is labor-intensive work and requires proper preparation and the right type of paint.

Preparing the Windows for Painting:

• Clean the vinyl surface with detergent and a scrub sponge, or use wet-dry sandpaper/a flexible sanding sponge to combine the cleaning and sanding steps.
• Since you need to open the windows to paint all parts of the trim, this is a warm-weather job. If you have removable windows, take out the sash for easier painting.
• If there are screens, you will need to remove them. If bugs are an issue, tape some plastic sheeting to the inside of the window to seal them while you work.
• Protect the glass, weather stripping, and window hardware by applying painter's tape to these areas.
• Prepare the painting surface by lightly sanding the frames and sashes using fine-grit sandpaper or steel wool. Be careful not to sand the glass as this cannot be undone.

Choosing the Right Paint:

• Choose a high-quality, 100% acrylic (water-based) paint. A satin finish is a good compromise between gloss and a flat, harder-to-clean surface.
• You can choose any sheen you prefer, but avoid painting vinyl more than a shade darker than the existing color as it can warp.
• Andersen recommends using a paint with a Hunter L Value of greater than 40 and vinyl-to-vinyl paint after deglossing with a green Teflon pad and wiping with acetone.
• You can also use a latex primer designed for PVC, such as Gripper, followed by a regular latex paint.
• If you want to match Andersen vinyl window colors, contact your local Andersen dealer for color swatches to take to a paint store for custom matching.

Painting Tips:

• As painting vinyl-clad windows is labor-intensive, don't compromise the quality of the job by using cheap paint.
• Consult a dedicated paint store, where professional painters shop, instead of a home improvement store.
• Whether you prime or not, apply two coats of acrylic paint for the best look and maximum durability.
• Keep in mind that the windows will need to be left open for a long time to dry, so you may want to choose a day during a mild season, such as after allergy season is over.
• Exercise caution when painting upper-story windows.

Preparing the surface

Step 1: Clean the Windows

Start by giving the vinyl windows a thorough clean. Use a mild detergent and a scrub sponge to remove any dirt, dust, or grime. Alternatively, you can combine cleaning and light sanding by using wet-dry sandpaper or a flexible sanding sponge to scrub the windows with detergent. Once you've cleaned the windows, rinse them with clean water and let them dry completely.

Step 2: Lightly Sand the Surface

Lightly sand the vinyl surface using fine-grit sandpaper or a Scotch-Brite pad. This process, known as scuff sanding, creates a slightly rough surface that will help the paint adhere better. Be careful not to over-sand, as this can damage the vinyl. Avoid sanding glass surfaces, as this cannot be undone. Use a clean brush to remove any dust created during the sanding process.

Step 3: Degloss the Surface (Optional)

If your windows have a glossy finish, it is recommended to degloss the surface to improve paint adhesion. Use a green Teflon pad to gently buff the vinyl surface, removing any shine. Wipe the window frames with acetone or xylol to ensure the surface is free of any residue.

Step 4: Protect Surrounding Areas

Before you start painting, protect the surrounding areas from paint splatters. Cover the floor and any nearby furniture with old newspapers or drop cloths. If you're concerned about getting paint on the glass, apply blue painter's tape along the edges where the glass meets the frame. You can also tape off any non-removable window hardware to protect it from paint.

Step 5: Choose the Right Paint

Selecting the right paint is crucial for a successful project. Choose a high-quality 100% acrylic (water-based) paint. Avoid using cheap paint, as it may compromise the quality of your work. A satin finish is a good choice, as it offers a nice balance between gloss and flat finishes. If you prefer a darker colour, ensure you use paint with reflective pigments to prevent warping.

Step 6: Prime the Surface (Optional)

While priming is not always necessary, it can improve the adhesion and durability of the paint. If you decide to prime, use a fast-drying alkyd primer in a neutral colour, such as KILZ®. Allow the primer to dry thoroughly before proceeding to the next step.

By following these steps, you will properly prepare the surface of your Andersen vinyl windows for painting, ensuring a smooth and professional finish.

Choosing the right paint

Painting vinyl windows can be a great way to add character and warmth to your space. However, if you don't choose the right paint, your vinyl windows can look faded or even peel in places.

The Best Paint for Vinyl Windows

Vinyl windows are made from a flexible material called polyvinyl chloride (PVC). This plastic is waterproof but not very durable. Over time, it will become scratched and scuffed by exposure to the elements, and it may even discolour or peel away from the house. To keep your windows looking their best, you need to apply high-quality paint.

Acrylic or latex paint is best for vinyl windows. They offer good adhesion and last longer than other types of paint on PVC surfaces. Acrylic paint is ideal for hard-to-reach areas like corners or edges, while latex paint is more suitable for large surfaces like doors or windowsills.

For the primer, use a product that is specifically designed for vinyl, such as Sherwin-Williams' Extreme Bond Primer. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and doesn't peel off later.

For the final coat, Sherwin Williams' Regal Exterior Low Lustre or Duration Exterior Matte Finish is recommended for the most durability. These paints will protect your vinyl windows from fading while also being easy to clean.

Choosing the Right Colours

Generally, vinyl window frames are painted with lighter colours in areas with lots of sun exposure because darker colours absorb heat and may cause the vinyl to warp. However, many homeowners are opting to paint their vinyl windows black for a trendy, modern look. Just be aware that this could void your warranty, as dark colours on window exteriors are more likely to warp the vinyl.

Other Considerations

While choosing the right paint is essential, there are a few other things to keep in mind when painting vinyl windows. First, always clean and prepare the surface properly. You may also want to use sandpaper to create extra adhesion. Additionally, be sure to use the right tools for painting, such as a sprayer or brushes, rather than a roller, which may not provide the best coverage. Finally, remember that painting your vinyl windows may void their warranty, so check with the manufacturer before proceeding.

Parts of the window that shouldn't be painted

Painting vinyl windows can be a challenging task, and it is important to take the necessary precautions to avoid getting paint on certain parts of the window. Here are the parts of the window that should not be painted:

• Glass: It is crucial to keep the paint off the glass. Painting the glass can make the window look messy and unattractive. Take the necessary steps to mask off or cover the glass panes before starting to paint.
• Weather Stripping: The weather stripping is an essential component of the window that helps seal the gaps and prevent air and water infiltration. Painting the weather stripping can compromise its effectiveness and flexibility. Make sure to protect it with tape or other coverings during the painting process.
• Window Hardware: This includes components such as latches, handles, and hinges. Painting these parts can affect their functionality and may lead to difficulty in operating the window. Remove or cover the hardware before painting to avoid any unwanted paint application.
• Screens: If the window has removable screens, it is recommended to take them out before painting. This will help ensure that the paint does not get on the screens, keeping them clean and functional.
• Window Tracks: The window tracks, also known as sash channels, should not be painted. Applying paint to these areas can lead to a build-up of paint over time, making it difficult to open and close the windows smoothly. It is advisable to use linseed oil or a similar lubricant on these tracks instead of paint.
• Weep Holes: Weep holes are small openings located at the bottom of the window frame that allow for water drainage. It is important to keep these holes clear and unobstructed to ensure proper water drainage. Avoid painting over or blocking these holes during the painting process.
• Window Sills: Window sills are the flat surfaces located at the base of the window on the exterior. While it is not necessary to avoid painting them, it is generally recommended to keep the sills free from paint to maintain their functionality in preventing moisture infiltration.

Andersen's recommendations

Andersen Windows provides specific recommendations and guidelines for painting their vinyl windows. Firstly, it is important to note that painting the windows may void the warranty. Therefore, before proceeding with any painting project, carefully check the warranty coverage for your specific Andersen windows.

Andersen Windows recommends the following steps for preparing and painting their vinyl windows:

• Use a Hunter L Value of greater than 40. This refers to a color value or scale where white is 100, and darker colors are lower values. Painting vinyl windows too dark may cause warping due to heat absorption.
• Degloss the vinyl surface using a green Teflon pad. This helps create a suitable surface for the paint to adhere to.
• Wipe the vinyl surface with acetone to ensure it is clean and free of any residues.
• Use a high-quality paint specifically designed for painting over PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Andersen recommends vinyl-to-vinyl paint for this purpose.
• Avoid painting certain parts of the window, such as weatherstrips, gaskets, silicone beads, jamb liners, sliding window tracks, and hardware (hinges, operator arms, locks, etc.).
• For the primer, use a fast-drying alkyd primer in a neutral color, such as the KILZ® brand.
• Once the primer is dry, apply an oil- or water-based topcoat.
• Allow sufficient drying time before closing the windows to avoid damaging the paint finish.

Andersen also offers a range of touch-up paints and aerosol spray paints in various colors, such as Terratone®, Sandtone, Forest Green, Red Rock, and Cocoa Bean. These can be used for minor touch-ups or repairs.

It is important to follow these recommendations to ensure the paint adheres properly and does not affect the functionality or warranty of the windows.

Frequently asked questions