Best Exterior Paint For Wooden Windows: Expert Tips

what is the best exterior paint for wooden windows

Exterior wood paint is essential to protect wooden window frames from the elements and maintain their beauty. The best exterior wood paint will be durable, easy to apply, and look great. It should also be flexible to avoid cracking and peeling as the wood expands and contracts with changing moisture levels. When choosing exterior wood paint, it is important to consider the type of wood, the desired level of gloss or sheen, and the colour. Additionally, preparation is key to ensuring a smooth finish and long-lasting protection.

Characteristics Values
Paint Type Oil-based, Water-based, Acrylic, Latex, Enamel
Durability High solids content, Flexible, Weather-resistant, Long-lasting
Application Easy, Self-priming, Smooth, Thick, Quick-drying
Protection Water-repellent, Mildew-resistant, UV-resistant
Compatibility Wood, Metal, UPVC
Finish Gloss, Semi-gloss, High-gloss, Satin, Matt

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Oil-based paints vs water-based paints

When choosing the best exterior paint for wooden windows, there are two main types of paint to choose from: oil-based paints and water-based paints. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice depends on several factors, including the desired level of sheen, durability, ease of application, and environmental impact.

Sheen Qualities

Oil-based paints are known for their high sheen finish, resulting in a beautiful and glossy surface. However, over time, this sheen tends to dull and become less vibrant. On the other hand, water-based paints typically have a lower sheen but can maintain this level for a more extended period. If you desire a high sheen for your wooden windows, you can use oil-based paint and then apply wood wax or finishing oils to achieve a similar effect with water-based paint.

Durability

Oil-based paints dry to form a very hard and durable shell, providing excellent protection against wear and tear. They are highly resistant to abrasions and staining and typically require fewer coats to achieve full coverage. However, oil-based paints lack elasticity, making them prone to cracking, especially when not properly sealed. Water-based paints, on the other hand, have improved significantly in recent years and now offer comparable durability. They dry hard enough to withstand most conditions and have greater flexibility to expand and contract with changing weather conditions, making them less likely to crack.

Ease of Application

One important consideration when choosing a paint type is the ease of application. Oil-based paints are generally slower to bond and require a completely dry surface before application. They also emit a strong chemical odour that can cause headaches and skin irritations if the area is not adequately ventilated. Water-based paints, in contrast, can be applied over small amounts of humidity on a surface, making them more forgiving. They also have a milder odour, making them safer for indoor use and in confined spaces.

Environmental Impact

The environmental impact of paint is an essential factor to consider. Oil-based paints release high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the drying process, which can have negative health and environmental consequences. VOCs can cause eye, throat, nose, and skin irritation and have been linked to more severe health issues. Water-based paints, on the other hand, typically have lower VOC levels since they use water as a solvent rather than chemical compounds. They are also easier to clean up, requiring only soap and water, whereas oil-based paints need specialty thinners or turpentine for cleanup.

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Priming your windows

Additionally, you should opt for a primer that is compatible with the type of wood you are working with. Some primers are specifically formulated for use on bare wood, while others can be applied over previously painted surfaces. If you are working with softwood, for example, you will need a primer that is suitable for this type of wood. It is also important to consider the colour of the primer. Choosing a primer that is similar in colour to your chosen topcoat can help to achieve the desired shade and finish. For example, if you plan to use a lighter-coloured topcoat, a white primer will be a good option. On the other hand, if you opt for a darker shade, a grey primer will be more suitable.

Moreover, it is crucial to prepare the surface of your windows properly before applying the primer. This includes removing any chipped or loose paint, sanding down the surface to create a smooth finish, and filling any holes or cracks with wood filler. Once the surface is prepared, be sure to clean it thoroughly to remove any dust, dirt, or grime. This will help ensure that your primer adheres properly to the surface.

When applying the primer, use a brush or roller, and work in small sections to prevent dripping. Typically, two coats of primer are recommended, and it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times and application techniques.

By following these steps and choosing the right primer for your needs, you can ensure that your wooden windows are properly prepared for painting and will look their best for years to come.

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Paint durability

To improve paint durability, it is essential to adequately prepare the surface before painting. This includes cleaning and drying the surface, as paint adheres better to clean and dry surfaces. Additionally, priming the surface is crucial, especially for bare wood. Primers provide advanced adhesion and protect the surface from moisture and stains.

When it comes to choosing the right type of paint, oil-based paints offer better protection and longer-lasting results for exterior wood. They are more durable than acrylic or latex paints but tend to yellow over time and are more prone to mildew. High-quality exterior acrylic paints are also a good option, as they are less likely to crack and peel than latex paint.

The sheen of the paint also plays a role in durability. High-gloss paints, with their ultra-shiny and light-reflecting finish, are the most durable and easy to clean. However, they may not be the best choice for exterior walls as they can show every bump and imperfection. Satin and semi-gloss finishes offer a balance between shine and durability, making them suitable for areas that require frequent cleaning.

Overall, by choosing the right type of paint, adequate surface preparation, and considering the desired level of shine, you can improve the durability of your wooden window paint and ensure that it lasts longer.

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Paint adhesion

Thumbnail Test

The thumbnail test is unreliable and should be avoided. This test involves pressing your thumbnail into the paint to assess its adhesion.

Knife Test

The knife test is a simple and subjective test that uses a utility knife to pick at the coating. An X-cut is made through the coating down to the substrate, and then an attempt is made to lift it up with the point of the knife. The degree of difficulty in removing the coating and the size of the removed coating are evaluated.

Tape Test

The tape test is a more formal version of the knife test, often used on metal substrates. There are two variants: the X-cut tape test and the cross-hatch tape test.

The X-cut tape test involves making two cuts with a sharp blade to form an X on the substrate, covering it with masking tape, and then removing the tape rapidly. The area is then inspected for removal of the coating, and a rating is given.

The cross-hatch tape test is similar but uses a cross-hatch pattern instead of an X-pattern. This method is intended for coatings less than 5 mils (or 125 microns) thick. After making the cuts, masking tape is applied and removed, and the area is inspected and rated.

Pull-Off Adhesion Test

The pull-off adhesion test is a more quantitative method that involves affixing a loading fixture, known as a dolly or stub, to the coating with an adhesive. A portable pull-off adhesion tester is then used to apply increasing loads until the dolly is pulled off. The force required to pull off the dolly or the force it withstood yields the tensile strength in pounds per square inch (psi) or mega Pascals (MPa).

Scrape Test

The scrape test is typically performed in a laboratory on smooth, flat panel surfaces. Coated panels are pushed beneath a rounded stylus or loop that is loaded with increasing amounts of force until the coating is removed from the substrate.

Other Adhesion Tests

Other tests include the use of tensile test machines, bending tests, and formability and adhesion testing. These tests are designed to evaluate the adhesion of coatings to various substrates, including metal, wood, concrete, and plastic.

Factors Affecting Adhesion

The quality of paint adhesion can be influenced by several factors, including the type of paint, surface preparation, and environmental conditions.

Oil-based paints and high-quality exterior acrylic paints tend to provide better adhesion and longer-lasting results on exterior wood compared to latex paints, which are more prone to cracking and peeling.

Additionally, adequate surface preparation is crucial for good adhesion. The surface must be clean, dry, and free of dirt, grease, and loose or peeling paint. Priming the surface before painting can also enhance adhesion.

Best Practices for Painting Wooden Windows

When painting wooden windows, it is essential to use a suitable exterior trim paint designed for outdoor use. This type of paint is made to adhere to common trim materials and can last a long time.

Before painting, ensure the windows are clean and free of old paint. Use a putty knife to remove loose paint and putty, and then sand the area until it feels smooth. Priming the windows with an oil-based primer is recommended, followed by a finish paint such as oil-based enamel or water-based enamel paint.

Oil-based enamel provides a hard finish but may yellow over time and is more prone to mildew. Water-based enamel paints, such as Sherwin-Williams Porch & Floor Enamel or Sher-Cryl, can provide excellent adhesion and reduce sticking issues.

When painting, start with the horizontal pieces of the sash, followed by the vertical ones, to achieve neater results. Don't forget to paint the grid, if any, and remember to protect the surrounding areas with painter's tape.

By following these tips and techniques, you can ensure proper paint adhesion and a high-quality finish for your wooden windows.

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Paint blocking

To prevent paint blocking, it is crucial to allow sufficient drying time before closing doors or windows. Using a high-quality paint with good block resistance is also essential. For exterior wooden windows, it is recommended to use a top-quality semi-gloss or gloss acrylic latex paint. These paints generally offer better block resistance than oil-based coatings, especially in warm and damp conditions.

If you are experiencing paint blocking, you can resolve the issue by removing loose paint through scraping or sanding. After ensuring the surface is smooth, clean it thoroughly and allow it to dry. Then, apply a high-quality primer and follow up with the appropriate topcoat. For exterior wood surfaces, an Exterior Latex Wood Primer and a finish coat of SuperPaint® Exterior Acrylic Latex are recommended.

Frequently asked questions

The best exterior paint for wooden windows is Dulux Weathershield Quick Dry Satin. This satin paint is quick-drying, flexible, and mould-resistant, with a 10-year guarantee. It is suitable for a variety of exterior wooden surfaces, including doors, window frames, and garage doors.

Other good options include Johnstone's Exterior Gloss, which has a 6-year guarantee, and Ronseal Weatherproof Paint, which has a 10-year guarantee.

Exterior paint for wooden windows can protect the wood from the elements, including sun, rain, and wind, and can also improve the appearance of the windows. A good exterior paint will be flexible, to prevent cracking and peeling, and will be mould and algae-resistant, to prevent discolouration.

When choosing an exterior paint for wooden windows, it is important to select a paint that is durable and weather-resistant. It should also be flexible, to allow for the expansion and contraction of the wood, and be mould-resistant, to prevent discolouration. It is also important to choose a colour that is suitable for the climate and that complements the natural surroundings.

Written by
  • Lara Beck
  • Lara Beck
    Author Home Renovation Professional
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