How To Paint Andersen Window Mullions Like A Pro

Painting plastic window mullions is possible, but it requires careful preparation and the right choice of paint. Andersen windows are typically vinyl-clad or solid vinyl, and while vinyl is a low-maintenance material that doesn't usually require painting, it can be painted to refresh its appearance or to match other windows in the home. The process involves cleaning and sanding the vinyl, choosing the right type of paint, and carefully applying it to avoid getting paint on the glass, weather stripping, and hardware. Additionally, it's important to consider the colour choice, as painting vinyl a significantly darker shade may require more coats and could potentially cause warping in extreme cases.

Painting plastic window mullions

Step 1: Surface Preparation

Start by removing any removable parts, such as the sash or screens, to make the painting process easier. Clean the plastic mullions with a detergent and a scrub sponge to remove any dirt, grease, or grime. You can also use wet-dry sandpaper or a flexible sanding sponge to lightly sand the surface, combining the cleaning and sanding steps. Once you're done, rinse the windows and let them dry thoroughly.

Step 2: Protect Surrounding Areas

Before you begin painting, protect the glass, weather stripping, and window hardware from paint splatters. You can use painter's tape to cover these areas or a product like Masking Liquid H20, which you can paint over the glass to protect it from paint. This liquid can be easily peeled off once the paint is dry.

Step 3: Primer Application

While priming is not always necessary, it is recommended if you live in a harsh climate. Choose a water-based bonding primer and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring you follow the steps to prepare the vinyl surface correctly. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Paint Selection and Application

For the best results, opt for a high-quality, 100% acrylic (water-based) paint. You can choose any sheen you prefer, but a satin finish is a good compromise between gloss and a flat surface that may be harder to clean. Apply two coats of paint for the best look and maximum durability, allowing each coat to dry completely before adding the next.

Step 5: Paint Technique

You can use a large angled paintbrush or a sprayer to apply the paint. If you use a brush, a steady hand and a good, stiff angled brush can help you achieve precise results without the need for taping. If you opt for a sprayer, make sure to protect the surrounding areas from paint overspray.

Step 6: Drying and Clean-up

Once you've applied the final coat of paint, allow it to dry completely. If you used masking liquid on the glass, you can now carefully peel it off. Clean your brushes or sprayer according to the paint manufacturer's instructions, and enjoy your freshly painted window mullions!

Paint preparation

Painting plastic Andersen window mullions is possible, but it requires careful preparation to ensure a successful outcome. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare the surface for painting:

Cleaning and Sanding:

Start by cleaning the vinyl surface with a mild detergent and a scrub sponge. This will remove any dirt, grime, or residue from the surface. After cleaning, lightly sand the vinyl surface. You can use wet-dry sandpaper or a flexible sanding sponge for this step, combining cleaning and sanding into one step. Rinse the surface with water and allow it to dry completely.

Protecting the Glass and Hardware:

Before painting, it's essential to protect the glass and window hardware from paint splatters. You can use painter's tape to cover the glass panes and hardware. Additionally, if there are any screens, you may want to remove them or cover them with plastic sheeting to protect them from paint.

Choosing the Right Paint:

Select a high-quality, 100% acrylic (water-based) paint for the job. Acrylic paint adheres well to vinyl and is suitable for outdoor use. Choose a satin finish, as it offers a nice balance between gloss and flat finishes, making it easier to clean. It is recommended to avoid painting vinyl surfaces more than a shade darker than their original color, as it can cause warping in direct sunlight.

Priming (Optional):

Priming is not necessary, according to the Paint Quality Institute. However, if you live in a harsh climate or want to ensure better paint adhesion, you can use a water-based bonding primer. Apply one coat of primer and allow it to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Painting:

When the primer is dry (if you used one), you can start painting. Apply two coats of the acrylic paint you chose, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Be careful to avoid painting the glass or hardware. It is recommended to use a high-quality paintbrush or a sprayer for a smooth and even finish.

Remember to follow the specific instructions and recommendations provided by the paint manufacturer for the best results.

Paint type and application

Painting vinyl-clad Andersen windows is possible, but it requires careful preparation and the right choice of paint. Here is a step-by-step guide to the paint type and application process for plastic Andersen window mullions:

Step 1: Cleaning and Preparation: Start by cleaning the vinyl surface with a detergent and a scrub sponge. You can also use wet-dry sandpaper or a flexible sanding sponge to lightly sand the surface and create a slightly rough texture, which will help the paint adhere better. Rinse the windows and let them dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Choose the Right Paint: It is important to select a high-quality paint specifically designed for vinyl surfaces. Your best option is a dedicated paint store that caters to professional painters. Choose a 100% acrylic (water-based) paint in the sheen of your choice. A satin finish is a good option as it offers a nice balance between gloss and flatness, making it easier to clean.

Step 3: Consider a Primer: While the Paint Quality Institute suggests that priming is not necessary, if you live in a harsh climate or want to ensure better paint adhesion, you can use a water-based bonding primer. Just make sure to select a primer specifically designed for vinyl surfaces.

Step 4: Paint Application: Apply two coats of the acrylic paint for the best results and maximum durability. Use a large angled paintbrush or a sprayer for faster application. Be careful to avoid getting paint on the glass, weather stripping, and window hardware. You can use plastic sheeting and tape to protect these areas if needed.

Step 5: Allow for Drying: Make sure to follow the paint manufacturer's instructions for drying time between coats and before handling the windows.

Step 6: Avoid Dark Colours: Vinyl can get hot in the sun, and painting it too dark can cause warping. While this is less of a concern for windows due to their thicker material, it is still recommended to avoid painting vinyl more than a shade or two darker than its original colour.

Step 7: Colour Matching: If you want to match the colour of your Andersen windows, contact your local Andersen dealer for colour swatches. You can then take these swatches to a paint store for custom colour matching.

Step 8: Alternative Options: If you are looking for a one-step process, you can explore spray paint options like Krylon Fusion, which is designed for use on plastics. Additionally, Rustoleum makes a primer specifically for plastic surfaces that can be used before applying regular house paint.

Paint colour considerations

When choosing a paint colour for your Andersen window mullions, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to select a high-quality paint that is suitable for use on plastic surfaces. In this case, a 100% acrylic (water-based) paint is recommended. This type of paint will adhere well to the plastic surface and provide a durable finish. The sheen of the paint is also a consideration; a satin finish is a good option as it offers a nice compromise between a glossy and a flat finish, which can be harder to clean.

If you are looking to paint your mullions a dark colour, there are a few additional factors to keep in mind. Vinyl, the material used in Andersen windows, can warp if it gets too hot. As a general rule, it is recommended to avoid painting vinyl more than a shade darker than its original colour. However, since window mullions are thicker than vinyl siding, the colour may not be as much of an issue. Nonetheless, if you are painting over a light colour with a dark one, you may need to apply more than two coats of paint to achieve full coverage.

To ensure a successful paint job, proper preparation is key. Clean the plastic surface with detergent and a scrub sponge, and lightly sand it to create a smooth base for the paint to adhere to. Additionally, consider using a plastic primer before painting to improve adhesion and colour coverage. When it comes to the painting process itself, be careful to keep paint off the glass, weather stripping, and window hardware. It is also recommended to work in warm weather so you can open the windows and easily access all parts of the trim.

If you are aiming to match your Andersen window mullions to a specific colour, you can contact your local Andersen dealer for colour swatches. They can provide you with samples that you can take to a paint store for custom colour matching. Alternatively, you can explore paint colour options at a dedicated paint store, where professional painters typically shop, rather than a home improvement store.

Paint matching

Painting plastic window mullions is possible, but it requires careful preparation and the right choice of paint. If you are looking to match your Andersen window mullions to a specific colour, there are a few options available.

Firstly, it is important to note that painting vinyl-clad windows requires proper preparation to ensure the paint adheres well and does not peel or warp the vinyl. The process involves cleaning and lightly sanding the vinyl, and it is recommended to use a high-quality 100-percent acrylic (water-based) paint, with a satin finish, and to apply two coats for the best results and durability.

If you are trying to match the colour of your Andersen windows, you can contact your local Andersen dealer to obtain colour swatches. These swatches can then be taken to a dedicated paint store, where professionals can mix a custom colour to match your windows. This method ensures an accurate colour match for your project.

Additionally, there are online services, such as MyPerfectColor, that offer pre-mixed paint colours specifically designed to match Andersen window colours. They offer a wide range of colours in various paint types, including spray paint, touch-up paint, and gallons. However, it is important to note that the colour match may vary depending on the age of your windows, as the colour may have changed over time.

For a recent project, a homeowner chose to use Sherwin Williams Muslin paint to match their Andersen 400 windows. This colour was a close match to the Canvas colour offered by Andersen, providing a slightly more saturated off-white tone.

With these options and suggestions, you can successfully paint and colour-match your Andersen window mullions to achieve the desired aesthetic for your home.

Frequently asked questions