Painting Aluminium Window Frames: A Guide For Australians

Aluminium window frames are a common feature of Australian homes, having been around since the 1940s. While they are long-lasting, great for insulation, and require low maintenance, they may not be the most visually appealing aspect of your home. Painting aluminium window frames can be a great way to refresh and modernise the look of your house, making it more aesthetically pleasing. It is also a cheaper alternative to removing the entire set.

Choosing the right paint colour

When choosing the right paint colour for aluminium window frames, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, the colour should complement the style of your home. For example, if you have an older Tudor-style home, darker colours like black or brown may be more suitable, while white or grey can create a bold and stylish look. If you live in a heritage property, consider matching the colour palette to the era of your home. Federation, colonial or mid-century colour schemes can highlight the home's history and retain its character.

Another factor to consider is the surrounding environment. If you live in an urban area, take inspiration from the colour choices of your neighbours. On the other hand, if you live in a rural area, try to match or contrast your home with the natural tones of the landscape.

Additionally, the colour you choose should be low-maintenance and durable. Powder-coated finishes provide a harder finish than conventional paint, offering better protection for your window frames. Anodised aluminium finishes, on the other hand, toughen the oxide layer of the metal, making it resistant to corrosion and creating a subtle metallic sheen. Both options are virtually maintenance-free and will retain their colour for years.

When deciding on a colour, it is also essential to consider the practical benefits of painting your window frames. The paint will seal off the aluminium from environmental factors like rain and strong UV rays, making the frames more durable and less prone to corrosion.

Finally, don't be afraid to add a pop of colour to your windows to make them stand out. You can choose from a wide range of paint colours, so feel free to get creative and match your windows to the colour of your house or choose a bold shade that adds a unique touch to your exterior.

Preparing the window frame

Step 1: Cleaning the Window Frames

Start by removing any window furnishings, fixtures, and unfixed windows. Then, thoroughly clean the window frames, both inside and out, to remove any dirt, dust, and debris. A brush and vacuum cleaner or a soft cloth can be used for this step. If there are weather seals attached to the window frame, be sure to remove them as well. For a deeper clean, consider using warm soapy water or sugar soap, and an old toothbrush to reach those hard-to-clean areas.

Step 2: Sanding

Once the frames are clean and dry, use sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections and create a flat finish. For aluminium window frames, it is recommended to use sandpaper with a grit of 80-120. If there is chipping paintwork or rust, sand until the surface is smooth. After sanding, wipe down the frames with a clean cloth to remove any dust residue.

Step 3: Treating Stains

If there are stubborn stains on the window frames, they can be treated with baking soda or vinegar. Apply the product to the stains and wipe away with a cloth.

Step 4: Applying a Lubricant (Optional)

Spray the window frame with a thin coat of lubricant and scrub with a small bristle brush or toothbrush to ensure the lubricant reaches all areas. This step will help ensure that the frame is free of any remaining residue.

Step 5: Taping and Covering

Before painting, it is important to protect the surrounding areas. Use painter's tape to tape off the area around the frame, pressing it into the corners with a putty knife. Cover the glass completely with paper towels or newspaper, securing them in place with tape. Additionally, put down a drop sheet or canvas to protect the floor from paint drips and spray.

Step 6: Priming

Priming is an essential step in the painting process. It helps the paint adhere better to the surface. Choose a good-quality aluminium primer, such as an etch primer spray paint, and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Now that the window frame has been thoroughly prepared, it is ready for painting. Remember to follow the specific instructions for your chosen paint and always work in a well-ventilated area.

Cleaning the window frame

Aluminium window frames are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their durability and low maintenance. However, they can become oxidized and dull over time if not properly cared for. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean your aluminium window frames before painting:

Step 1: Remove Fixtures and Windows

Firstly, remove any window furnishings and fixtures. If possible, take out any unfixed windows from the frame. This will make the cleaning process easier and ensure that all areas of the window are thoroughly cleaned.

Step 2: Protect the Surroundings

Place a dust sheet or a canvas drop sheet on the floor to protect it from any cleaning solutions or debris. You can also use plastic sheets or paper to cover the surrounding areas, such as the window's timber surround. Secure the sheets in place with tape, preferably a good quality painter's tape.

Step 3: Clean the Window Frame

Mix mild detergent or diluted dish detergent with warm water. Use a soft cloth, sponge, or an old toothbrush to wipe down the window frame, ensuring you remove all dirt, dust, and debris, both inside and out. For stubborn stains, you can use a wire brush attachment on a drill to loosen any flaking paint, dirt, or grime. Be careful not to use too much force, as you don't want to scratch the aluminium surface.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

After cleaning, rinse the window frame with clean water to remove any detergent residue. Use a clean cloth or sponge to wipe down the frame, ensuring no water streaks or spots are left behind. You can also use a polishing cloth and household polish for added shine and protection.

Step 5: Sanding (Optional)

If there are any paint chips, rust, or stains on the window frame, you may need to use sandpaper to remove them. For small imperfections, use sandpaper with a grit of 80-120. For more extensive sanding, you may need a finer grit, such as 180. After sanding, be sure to wipe away any dust residue with a small brush or a damp cloth.

Step 6: Final Cleaning

Once the frame is clean and dry, you can optionally spray it with a thin coat of lubricant and scrub with a small brush or toothbrush to ensure that any remaining residue is removed. Finally, wipe the window frame with a clean cloth and use a glass cleaner on the windows themselves.

Remember to wear the appropriate protective gear during the cleaning process, such as safety glasses, gloves, and a respirator, especially when using strong cleaning solutions or if you have sensitivities.

Applying the primer

Aluminium window frames are built to last, but a lick of paint can transform them from an eyesore to a stylish feature. Applying primer to aluminium surfaces is an important step as it improves paint adhesion, boosts durability, and provides extra protection. Here is a step-by-step guide to applying the primer:

Prepare the Area

Before you begin priming, it is important to prepare the area. Put down a dust sheet to protect the floors and tape around the frame using a good-quality painter's tape. Press the tape into the corners with a putty knife and use shorter lengths to achieve a snug fit against the frame. Cover the glass completely with paper towels or newspaper, securing it with more tape. This will protect the glass from any primer or paint.

Choose the Right Primer

It is important to select a primer specifically formulated for use on metal surfaces. If the window has not been painted before, use an etch primer spray paint. This product contains resins that will help the paint adhere to the smooth surface of the metal.

Apply the Primer

When applying the primer, you can use either a brush or a sprayer. If using a brush, protect the glass by applying masking tape to prevent any paint flecks. If spraying, use both masking tape and paper to prevent the spray from settling on the glass. Start in the top corner of the frame and work across, then downward, and finally along the bottom. Whether using a brush or a sprayer, apply the primer with up-and-down strokes to achieve even coverage.

Allow the Primer to Dry

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times. Metal primer can take up to eight hours to dry. It is important to wait until the primer is fully dry before applying the top coat of paint.

Sand the Surface (Optional)

Once the primer has dried, use fine-grit sandpaper to gently sand away any small lumps or imperfections. This step is optional but will help create a smooth and even base for the top coat. After sanding, remember to vacuum or wipe away any dust or debris to ensure a clean surface for painting.

Now that the primer has been applied, you are ready to start painting! Remember to follow the specific instructions for your chosen paint, including drying times and the number of coats required.

Painting the window frame

Painting aluminium window frames is a great way to modernise the look of your house. It is also an inexpensive way to enhance your home's curb appeal. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to paint your aluminium window frames:

Step 1: Cleaning and Preparation

Firstly, remove any window furnishings and fixtures, and take out any unfixed windows from their frames. Then, give the window frames a thorough clean. Use warm soapy water or sugar soap to clean the frames, and an old toothbrush to get into hard-to-reach places. Ensure you remove any stains, as they may alter the colour of the finished paint. For stubborn stains, use baking soda or vinegar, and wipe away with a cloth. If there is any chipping paint or rust, remove it using sandpaper with a grit of 80-120. After cleaning, wipe away any dust residue with a small brush.

Step 2: Protecting the Area

Before painting, it is important to protect the surrounding areas. Put down a dust sheet to protect the floors. Then, tape off the area around the window frame using painter's tape. Press the tape into the corners with a putty knife, and use shorter lengths to get a snug fit. Cover the window's timber surround with paper kitchen towels or newspaper, securing it with more tape. Also, tape off the window and cover the glass completely.

Step 3: Primer

If the windows have not been painted before, use an etch primer spray paint. This will help the paint adhere to the smooth metal surface. Spray the primer evenly, holding the can between 10cm and 25cm away from the surface. Apply a series of thin coats rather than one heavy coat to avoid an uneven finish. Allow the primer to dry before applying the topcoat.

Step 4: Painting

When using a tin of paint, open the exterior paint tin and stir with a spatula for about a minute to even out the colour. Use a small paintbrush to apply the paint, wiping off any excess paint on the side of the tin before touching the window frame. Apply the paint in smooth, even strokes, gliding the paintbrush up and down the frame until you have applied one coat to the surface. Allow each coat to dry fully before applying additional coats, as several thin coats are better than one thick coat.

When using spray paint, shake the can well before use. Spray from top to bottom, using even strokes. Apply two to three thin coats, waiting for the previous coat to dry before applying the next.

Step 5: Finishing

Once the paint is dry, carefully remove the tape and paper covering the glass and window. If any paint has leaked under the tape, let it dry and then remove it carefully with a scraper blade.

And that's it! Your window frames are now beautifully painted and transformed.

Frequently asked questions