Painting the inside of a window jamb is a great way to update the look of your home without breaking the bank. It is a simple DIY project that can be completed in a few hours and will give your windows a fresh, modern appearance. Whether you have wood, metal, or vinyl window frames, the process is relatively similar, and with the right tools and materials, you can achieve professional-looking results. However, it is important to note that painting vinyl window jambs may be controversial, as some contractors advise against it due to potential warping and UV protection issues. Nonetheless, with careful preparation and the use of appropriate primers and paints, you can successfully paint your window jambs and transform the look of your home.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Should you paint inside of window jamb? | It is possible to paint the inside of a window jamb. However, it is not recommended to paint vinyl window jambs as the paint may not adhere well and there is a risk of warping and damage to the glass. |
Type of paint | Use a higher sheen paint for durability and to highlight architectural features. |
Primer | Use a primer for better paint adhesion and durability. Tint the primer to a similar shade as the final paint colour. |
Number of coats | Apply at least two coats of paint for a better finish. |
Paintbrush | Use a 2"-2.5" wide nylon/polyester brush for painting. |
Temperature | Work in temperatures between 50º-90ºF with moderate humidity. |
Preparation | Clean the window jamb and remove dust and dirt before painting. Lightly sand the surface and wipe with a damp cloth. |
Painter's tape | Use painter's tape to tape off the window frame before painting. |
What You'll Learn
Should you paint the inside of window jambs?
Painting the inside of window jambs can be a great way to update the look of your home, but there are a few things to keep in mind before you get started.
First, it's important to determine what type of material your window jambs are made of. The most common types are wood, metal, or vinyl. Each of these materials requires different types of paint and preparation methods. For example, if you have vinyl window jambs and want to paint them black, you may need to use a specific type of primer and be aware of the potential for warping due to solar heat. Contractors say it can be done, but window manufacturers advise against it.
Once you've determined the type of material, you'll need to select the appropriate primer and paint. It's crucial to choose a primer that is specifically designed for the surface you're working on, such as wood, metal, or vinyl. This will ensure better adhesion and a longer-lasting finish. After priming, you can apply your chosen paint color, making sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times and the number of coats required.
When painting window jambs, it's important to work in a clean and dust-free environment. Start by removing any dust or debris from the area and using a damp cloth to wipe down the surface. You may also need to sand the jambs lightly to create a smooth base for the paint. To avoid getting paint on the glass, you can use painter's tape or a product like Mask & Peel, which is applied directly to the glass next to the frame.
Additionally, keep in mind that you should avoid painting the tracks of the window, as this can cause the window to get stuck. If you do get paint in the tracks, make sure to wipe it away before it dries.
Overall, painting the inside of your window jambs can be a great way to refresh the look of your windows and your entire room. Just be sure to follow the proper preparation and painting techniques for the best results.
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What type of paint should you use?
When painting window jambs, it is important to use the right type of paint to ensure a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish. Here are some guidelines on the types of paint to use:
Exterior Window Jambs
For exterior window jambs, it is essential to use a quality exterior trim paint. This type of paint is specifically designed for outdoor trim and offers excellent adhesion to common trim materials, ensuring long-lasting results. Look for paints that are labelled as exterior trim paint or exterior window frame paint. These paints are typically available in a range of neutral colours, such as black, white, tan, taupe, and grey, which generally pair well with most exterior paint colours.
When working on exterior window jambs, it is recommended to use a 2"-2.5" wide nylon/polyester brush for best results. It is also advisable to work in moderate temperatures between 50º-90ºF and avoid direct sunlight to ensure optimal paint adhesion and drying.
Interior Window Jambs
When painting interior window jambs, the type of paint you use will depend on the material of the jambs:
- Wood Jambs: For wooden interior window jambs, a high-quality latex semi-gloss paint is recommended. This type of paint provides a durable and attractive finish. It is also suitable for other interior wood elements, such as trim and furniture.
- Medium-Density Fibreboard (MDF) Jambs: For MDF jambs, use a high-hiding all-purpose primer and a top coat of paint designed for interior use, such as ben® or ADVANCE®.
- Vinyl Jambs: Similar to MDF jambs, vinyl jambs should be primed with a high-hiding all-purpose primer and then painted with a suitable interior paint like ben® or ADVANCE®.
- PVC/Plastic Jambs: For PVC or plastic jambs, it is essential to use a high-adhesion primer, such as a waterborne bonding primer, to ensure the paint adheres properly to the surface. Follow this with a suitable top coat of paint designed for interior use.
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How do you prepare the window jambs for painting?
Preparing window jambs for painting is a simple yet important process that can help you achieve professional-looking results. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your window jambs for painting:
Clean the Window Jambs:
Start by cleaning the window jambs and the surrounding areas. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the jambs and remove any dust, dirt, or debris. For metal window jambs, you can use rubbing alcohol for effective cleaning. Ensure that the jambs are thoroughly cleaned before proceeding to the next step.
Remove Old Paint and Putty:
If there is old paint on the jambs, use a putty knife to carefully remove loose paint and window putty. Gently push the scraper end of the putty knife under the paint and putty to lift and remove as much as possible. Be careful not to damage the underlying surface. You can also use a wire brush to remove stubborn paint.
Sand the Jambs:
After removing the majority of the old paint, use sandpaper to smooth out the surface. You can use a block sander or a power sander for larger areas. Work until the jambs feel smooth to the touch. Be cautious around the glass to avoid scratching it with the sandpaper.
Reseal with Putty:
If there are any bare spots or imperfections on the jambs, use fresh putty to fill them in. Wear gloves and roll the putty into a thin tube. Press the putty into the bare spots and use a putty knife to create a flat, sloping surface. Use a damp finger to smooth out any flaws and allow the putty to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Tape Off Surrounding Areas:
Before you start painting, use painter's tape to mask off the areas you don't want to paint. Tape the border between the jambs and the window glass, as well as any other adjacent surfaces. This will help you achieve clean, straight lines and prevent paint from getting on unwanted areas.
Prime the Jambs:
Apply a suitable primer to the window jambs, especially if the material is unfinished. You can use a small angled paintbrush for narrow strips and a larger angled paintbrush for bigger areas. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions before proceeding to the painting stage.
By following these steps, you will effectively prepare your window jambs for painting, ensuring a smooth and professional finish. Remember to work carefully and wear the appropriate safety gear, such as gloves, masks, and goggles, when working with chemicals and paint.
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What is the best way to paint window jambs?
Painting window jambs can be a tedious task, but with the right tools and a good plan, it can be done efficiently. Here is a step-by-step guide on the best way to paint window jambs:
Preparation:
Before starting the painting process, it is crucial to clean the window jambs thoroughly. Use a putty knife to remove any loose paint, window putty, or caulk from around the edges of the window jambs. For any stubborn paint, use a wire-bristled brush to scrape it off. Once the majority of the paint has been removed, sand the area with sandpaper until it feels smooth. This process will ensure that the new paint will adhere properly to the surface. It is also important to wear the necessary safety gear, such as rubber gloves, a mask, and goggles, when working with paint and chemicals.
Priming:
After the window jambs are clean and smooth, it's time to prime the surface. Apply a coat of primer to the jambs, following the instructions on the primer container. The primer will help the new paint adhere better and improve its durability. If you are painting over bare wood, use an exterior oil-based primer and apply it with a brush to ensure a strong bond between the wood and the primer. Let the primer dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Painting:
Once the primer is dry, you can start painting. Use a small paintbrush to carefully apply the paint to the window jambs, being careful not to get paint on the glass. Choose a high-quality exterior trim paint that is suitable for outdoor use and will last a long time. Apply at least two coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times, as they may vary depending on the type of paint used (oil-based or latex).
Clean-up:
After the final coat of paint has dried, carefully remove any paint that may have gotten on the glass with a single-edged razor scraper tool. Be gentle to avoid scratching the glass. Additionally, if there is any paint on the tracks where the windows slide up and down, remove it with a painter's rag and paint thinner before it dries.
Tips:
- Work in a temperature range between 50°F and 90°F with moderate humidity for optimal paint application.
- Avoid direct sunlight when painting outdoors.
- Choose neutral colours like black, white, tan, taupe, or grey to easily match with other paint colours.
- Consider using a higher sheen paint on your trim for a more durable coating and to highlight your home's architectural features.
- Use painter's tape to protect the glass and surrounding areas from paint splatters.
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How long does it take for window jambs to dry?
Painting the jambs, or the vertical and top sides of a window frame, is an important step in the window painting process. It is recommended that you wait for the putty to dry for as long as the manufacturer recommends before painting. Once the putty dries, you can apply a coat of primer and let it dry completely. The amount of time it takes for the primer to dry will depend on the type of primer used. Oil-based primers usually take about six to eight hours to dry, while latex primers typically dry within an hour.
After priming, you can start painting the jambs. Again, the drying time will depend on the type of paint used. Oil-based paints usually require six to eight hours to dry, while latex paints dry in about an hour. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times, as they may vary. Once the paint is dry to the touch, you can decide if you need to apply another coat for full coverage.
In addition to the drying time of the paint itself, it is important to allow adequate time for the paint to cure. The curing process allows the paint to harden and reach its full durability. This typically takes longer than the initial drying time and can vary depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and ventilation. Therefore, it is recommended to allow ample time for the paint to cure completely before subjecting the window jambs to normal use or exposure to the elements.
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Frequently asked questions
You should use a quality exterior trim paint. This type of paint is specially made for outdoor trim along windows and doors. It sticks to common trim materials and can last a long time.
Yes, priming is important to ensure the paint adheres properly and to help the colour stick.
First, paint the inside frame of the window, then the sash, then the window casing and sills, then the side edges of the trim, and finally, the face of the trim.
Neutral colours such as black, white, tan, taupe and grey are popular choices as they go well with many paint colours. You can also use two or three trim colours, setting rules for how you'll use them.