How To Paint Storm Window Inserts Beautifully

Storm windows are extra panels that attach to the exterior or interior of a window opening to provide protection from bad weather. They can be made of glass, vinyl, or acrylic, and surrounded by a frame of wood, metal, plastic, tape, or rubber. They can be customized to fit the shape and size of your window. Before painting storm window inserts, it is important to clean the surface with a solvent and ensure that it is free of any grease or chalkiness that may interfere with the paint's adhesion. It is also recommended to use a primer and apply multiple thin coats of paint, allowing for drying time in between.

Painting aluminium storm window frames

Step 1: Clean the Window Frames

Start by combining dishwashing soap with water in a plastic bucket. If the frames have a chalky surface, use steel wool or a wire brush to clean them. Grease can bleed through the paint over time, so it is important to remove it with a spray of brake cleaner. Next, use a sponge or rag to wash the frames with the soapy water and then rinse and dry them thoroughly.

Step 2: Tape the Glass and Screen

Use painter's tape to cover the glass and screen areas of the window, carefully applying it to prevent any paint splatters.

Step 3: Apply Metal Primer

Aluminium has a smooth surface that needs to be abraded to allow the paint to adhere properly. Instead of sandpaper, use an etching primer and allow it to dry for 4-6 hours before painting. Follow the manufacturer's directions and ensure the frames are completely dry before proceeding.

Step 4: Paint the Frames

Choose an exterior-grade acrylic or latex paint formulated for use on metal. Apply multiple thin coats of paint using a trim paintbrush, allowing the frames to dry completely between coats.

Step 5: Remove Tape and Make Touch-Ups

Slowly pull the painter's tape away from the painted area at an angle. Use an utility knife to scrape off any paint that may have splattered or seeped onto the glass. If necessary, touch up any areas where the tape may have pulled off paint.

Additional Tips:

It is recommended to work in a well-ventilated area due to fumes from the cleaners and paint. Use a large work table covered with an old blanket or cloth to rest the windows on while painting. When choosing a paint colour, consider that anodized aluminium window frames can be painted without any special preparation, but bronze-coloured aluminium may require additional steps to ensure proper adhesion.

Preparing the surface

Clean the Storm Window Inserts:

Start by combining dishwashing soap with water in a plastic bucket. If the surface of the frame appears chalky, use steel wool or a wire brush to gently scrub and clean it. Pay attention to any grease or stains, as these can bleed through the paint over time. Apply a spray of brake cleaner to remove any remaining grease; it's safe for aluminum and won't leave residues. Then, use a sponge or rag to wash the frame with the soapy water, rinse it with clean water, and dry it thoroughly with a clean rag or paper towel.

Tape Off the Glass and Screen:

Use painter's tape to carefully mask off the glass and screen areas of your storm window inserts. This will protect them from paint splatters and ensure clean lines.

Prepare the Aluminum Surface:

The smooth surface of aluminum needs to be abraded to allow the paint to adhere properly. Instead of using sandpaper, which is typical for other materials, use an etching primer. Apply the etching primer following the manufacturer's directions and let it dry completely for 4-6 hours before proceeding to the next step.

Priming the aluminium

Aluminium is a durable and lightweight material that is often used for construction projects and home furnishings. Painting aluminium differs from painting other materials like wood or masonry. However, it is a straightforward process once you know the basics. Here is a detailed guide on priming aluminium before painting:

Step 1: Clean the Aluminium Surface

Before applying primer, it is essential to clean the aluminium surface thoroughly. Mix warm water with a mild detergent or degreasing agent in a bucket. Use a clean cloth to wipe away any dirt, grease, or grime from the aluminium. If there are flakes of paint or rust, gently scrub the surface with a wire brush to remove them. Rinse the aluminium with clear water to remove any soap residue and let it dry completely.

Step 2: Sand the Aluminium Surface

Sanding the aluminium surface is crucial to create adhesion for the paint to grip onto. Use fine-grit sandpaper, around 60 to 100 grit, to remove any old paint and create a coarse finish. Wear gloves, respirators, and eye protection during this step to avoid inhaling aluminium dust, which is dangerous for your lungs. Once you have finished sanding, wash the surface again with the detergent solution and let it dry.

Step 3: Apply Self-Etching Primer

Once the aluminium surface is clean and dry, it's time to apply a self-etching primer. Self-etching primers contain chemicals that micro-etch the aluminium surface, creating the best bond for the paint to adhere to. Apply 3-4 thin coats of primer, following the manufacturer's directions. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. The drying time between coats will depend on the primer and the air temperature, typically around 5 minutes.

Step 4: Sand the Primed Surface

After the final coat of primer has dried, lightly sand the aluminium again with 400-grit sandpaper. This step helps create an even smoother surface for the paint to adhere to and ensures that the paint will not peel off easily. Wipe away any residue with a clean cloth.

Painting the frame

Step 1: Clean the Storm Window Frames

Start by mixing some dishwashing soap with water in a plastic bucket. If the frames have a chalky surface, use steel wool or a wire brush to clean them. Grease and stains can be removed with a spray of brake cleaner, which is safe for aluminium. Then, use a sponge or rag to wash the frames with the soapy water, rinse them with clean water, and dry them with a rag or paper towel.

Step 2: Tape the Glass and Screen

Use painter's tape to cover the window glass and screen, carefully applying it to prevent any paint splatters.

Step 3: Apply Metal Primer

The smooth surface of the aluminium needs to be abraded so that the paint will adhere properly. Instead of sandpaper, use an etching primer and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Allow the primer to dry completely for 4-6 hours before proceeding.

Step 4: Paint the Frame

Choose an exterior-grade acrylic or latex paint formulated for use on metal. Using a trim paintbrush, apply multiple thin coats of paint to the aluminium frame. Be sure to let the frame dry completely between coats.

Step 5: Remove Tape

Slowly and carefully peel away the painter's tape from the painted area. If any paint has splattered or seeped onto the glass, use a utility knife to scrape it off. If necessary, touch up any areas where the tape may have pulled off paint from the frame.

Additional Tips:

• Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes from the cleaner and paint.
• Use a large work table covered with an old blanket or cloth to protect the surface and catch any drips.
• Avoid using steel wool on aluminium to prevent galvanic corrosion. Instead, opt for a Scotch-Brite scouring pad or a similar alternative.
• If you're painting exterior storm windows, consider using a high-quality exterior oil-based enamel paint for added durability.

Finishing touches

Now that you've painted your storm window frames, it's time to put the final touches on your project. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve a professional-looking finish:

Reinstall the Screen Inserts:

If you removed the screen inserts before painting, now is the time to put them back in place. This will give your windows a complete look and ensure that they function properly. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for a smooth and secure installation.

Apply a Clear Coat (Optional):

Consider applying a clear coat to your painted storm window frames for added protection. A clear coat can provide a barrier against the elements, helping to prevent scratches, fading, and peeling. Choose a clear coat that is compatible with the type of paint you have used, such as an acrylic clear coat for latex or acrylic paint.

Clean the Windows:

Give your storm windows a thorough cleaning to remove any dust, debris, or residue from the painting process. Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to gently wipe down the frames, glass, and screens. This will ensure that your windows sparkle and showcase your handiwork.

Reinstall the Windows:

Once the paint is completely dry and cured, carefully reinstall your storm windows. Take your time during this process to ensure that the windows are properly aligned and secured. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions or a professional guide for the correct procedure.

Enjoy Your Updated Windows:

Stand back and admire your handiwork! Your freshly painted storm window inserts will not only enhance the appearance of your home but also provide improved insulation, noise reduction, and energy efficiency. You can now enjoy the comfort and beauty of your updated windows for years to come.

Frequently asked questions