Transforming Alloy Windows: A Guide To Painting Them Perfectly

Painting aluminium windows can be a quick and easy way to update your home. It is a simple process that can be done in a few hours and will cost just a few dollars. Aluminium windows are great for insulation, but they may not be the most visually appealing. A lick of paint can add a welcome splash of colour to the exterior of your home, helping to make it look crisp and clean. It is also cheaper and easier than replacing windows.

Before painting, you need to give the window frame a good scrub with soapy water and a clean cloth. Remove any stains as they may alter the colour of the finished paint. Chipping paintwork or any rust can be removed using sandpaper. Once blemishes are removed, wipe away any dust residue with a small brush. Next, spray the whole aluminium window frame with a thin coat of lubricant and scrub with a small bristle brush or toothbrush for any hard-to-reach spots. After scrubbing the entire surface, wipe the window frame with a clean cloth to remove any residue. You should also clean the windows with a glass cleaner before proceeding to paint.

Clean the window frames

To clean alloy window frames, you should first douse the frames in water to remove the first layer of dirt and grime. If outdoors, a hose can be used, and if indoors, a damp cloth.

Next, remove any grease spots with a commercial solvent-based cleaner. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package, and wear goggles and gloves if advised.

A paste made from baking soda and lemon juice can also be used to clean the frames. Apply the paste to the entire window frame, including any cracks and crevices, and let it dry. Then, use a damp sponge to remove the paste and rinse the frames.

For indoor window frames, use the same cleaning products as you did outdoors. Apply the cleaner with a scouring pad to help dislodge dirt and debris. Rinse and dry the frames with a damp sponge and cloth.

For tough stains, use steel wool and paint thinner. Be gentle to avoid scratching the frames.

Sand down the frames

Sanding down the frames is an important step in the process of painting alloy windows. It helps to remove the old paint and create a smooth surface for the new paint to adhere to. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to sand down the frames effectively:

Choose the Right Sandpaper:

Select sandpaper with a medium to fine grain, such as 120-180 grit. This will help you remove the old paint without scratching or damaging the alloy surface.

Sand the Frames:

Use your chosen sandpaper to sand down the window frames gently. Apply even pressure and work in the direction of the grain if there is one. Go over the entire frame, ensuring you reach all the corners and crevices. If there are any tight spots or intricate details, you can use a sponge or soft cloth to sand these areas without causing damage.

Remove Dust and Residues:

After sanding, use a soft brush or cloth to wipe down the frames and remove any dust or residues. It is important to ensure the surface is clean and dry before proceeding to the next steps.

Fill in Imperfections:

Inspect the frames for any cracks, crevices, or imperfections. If you find any, use a ready-made filler to fill them in. This will create a smooth and even surface for painting. Let the filler dry completely before proceeding.

Re-sand if Necessary:

Once the filler is dry, you may need to lightly re-sand the filled areas to ensure a smooth finish. Use fine-grit sandpaper for this step, and be gentle to avoid damaging the surface. Remove any dust with a soft cloth afterward.

By following these steps, you will effectively sand down the alloy window frames, preparing them for the next steps in the painting process. Remember to take your time and work carefully to achieve the best results.

Apply primer

Before applying primer to your aluminium window frames, it is important to prepare the area. Use masking tape or painter's tape to tape both sides of the window where the glass meets the frame and on the outside of the frame. This will protect your surroundings from paint drips or splatter.

Once you have taped the area, you are ready to apply the primer. Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer is a suitable metal primer. Apply the primer to the frame and allow it to dry completely, following the manufacturer's instructions. This can take up to eight hours. It is important to prime metal surfaces to ensure the paint adheres properly.

If you are painting over old paint, you will need to sand the frame to remove the old paint. Use sandpaper with a medium grain, and then a fine grain, to avoid scratching the frame. Once you have finished sanding, use a cloth to wipe the frame and remove any dust or residue.

If there are any cracks or crevices on the frame, fill them with ready-made filler. Once the filler is dry, sand the area with fine-grained sandpaper and then dust the frame with a soft cloth to remove any remaining dust.

Before applying primer, you should also clean the window frame with soapy water to remove any stains. You can use baking soda or vinegar to remove stubborn stains. Once the frame is clean, wipe it with a small brush to remove any dust residue.

After sanding and cleaning the frame, spray the entire surface with a thin coat of lubricant. Use a small bristle brush or toothbrush to reach any hard-to-reach spots. Then, wipe the window frame with a clean cloth to remove any remaining residue.

Now you are ready to apply the primer.

Choose your paint colour

Choosing the right paint colour for your alloy windows is a crucial step in enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the perfect paint colour:

Traditional vs. Modern Colours

If your home has a traditional style, opt for window frame colours that pop out or contrast with the hues of your house. Darker shades like black or brown are ideal for older, Tudor-style residences. For a modern aesthetic, choose colours that blend harmoniously with your home's exterior. Cool colours like greens, blues, purples, and greys often evoke a contemporary vibe.

Home Exterior Colour Choices

The exterior of your home plays a significant role in determining the suitable window frame colour. Exposed brick, vinyl siding, or wooden window trim typically lean towards a traditional design. On the other hand, a stucco exterior or windows without trim usually signify a modern aesthetic. Knowing whether you want to maintain or transform the style of your home will guide your colour selection.

Colour Palette Considerations

Warm colours, encompassing reds, yellows, oranges, and browns, often lean towards a traditional feel. In contrast, cool colours, such as greens, blues, purples, and greys, tend to be more contemporary. You can also opt for neutral colours like beige and tan, or the increasingly popular grey, which seamlessly complement various design styles.

Window Frame Colour Trends

While trends come and go, some window frame colours remain timeless. White is a classic choice that exudes elegance and versatility. It complements a wide range of home exterior colours and design styles. If you're seeking a bolder statement, consider contemporary shades like dark grey or anthracite, which lend a modern feel to your home.

Longevity and Resale Value

When selecting a window frame colour, it's essential to think long-term, especially if you plan to sell your home in the future. While you may be tempted to choose bold and vibrant colours, neutral hues tend to have broader appeal and can enhance the resale value of your property.

Paint the frames

Painting aluminium window frames can be a quick and easy way to update your home. It is much cheaper and easier than replacing windows, and with the right preparation, your window frames can be transformed.

Firstly, you need to give the window frame a good clean with soapy water and a clean cloth. Remove any stains as these may alter the colour of the finished paint. Use sandpaper to remove any chipping paintwork or rust, but be sure to use sandpaper between 80-120 grit. For stains, douse them in baking soda or vinegar and wipe away. Once blemishes are removed, wipe away any dust with a small brush.

Next, spray the whole window frame with a thin coat of lubricant and scrub with a small brush or toothbrush to get into any hard-to-reach spots. After scrubbing, wipe the window frame with a clean cloth to remove any remaining residue. You should also clean the glass with a glass cleaner before proceeding to paint.

Before starting to prime or paint, tape around the frame to protect your surroundings from paint drips or splatter. Use masking tape or painter's tape, taping both sides of the window where the glass meets the frame and on the outside of the frame.

Now you are ready to prime the window frame. Apply a coat of metal primer and allow it to dry (this can take up to eight hours). Metal surfaces need to be primed for the paint to adhere properly, so be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Once the primer is dry, you are ready to paint the window frame.

• Open the paint tin and stir with a spatula for about a minute to even out the colour.
• Use a small paintbrush to apply the paint, ensuring all excess paint is wiped off the brush on the side of the tin before coming into contact with the window frame.
• For an even coat of paint, glide the paintbrush up and down the window frame smoothly, until you have applied one coat to the surface.
• Allow each coat to dry fully and then apply a second and third coat until the aluminium is completely covered, with no metal shining through. Remember, several thin coats are better than one thick coat as thin coats take less time to dry and produce a harder finish.
• When the paint is completely dry, you can remove the tape and any paint on the glass panes by using a scraper blade or razor blade. Hold the blade vertically and scrape along the edge of the frame where it meets the glass. Ensure that the paint on the frame still overlaps the glass to create a watertight seal.

Frequently asked questions