Windows That Shouldn't Be Painted

Painting windows is a fun way to decorate your home for the holidays or to refresh old window frames. However, there are certain types of windows that you should avoid painting, and it's important to choose the right type of paint to avoid damage and ensure your paint job lasts. Vinyl windows, for example, are not usually recommended to be painted due to the risk of paint chipping and cracking, which can lead to an unsightly appearance. Painting vinyl windows may also void the manufacturer's warranty. Additionally, certain types of paint can be difficult to remove from windows, so it's important to choose a paint that is designed to be used on glass and is easy to remove.

Painting vinyl windows

If you decide to paint your vinyl windows, there are several things to consider. Firstly, check with the manufacturer to see if painting the windows will void the warranty. Painting over vinyl windows may cause the paint to chip, warp, crack, or damage, and the manufacturer may not be liable for the replacement costs.

Secondly, the type of paint you use is crucial. Paint professionals generally advise against painting vinyl windows, as no paint will last as long as the original vinyl finish. Paint specifically designed for vinyl surfaces adheres better to the slick surface and can withstand the expansion and contraction that occur due to temperature changes. It is also important to avoid using dark-coloured paint, as this will absorb more heat and may cause the vinyl to warp. Lighter colours are recommended for vinyl windows exposed to direct sunlight.

Thirdly, preparation is key. The vinyl surface should be cleaned with a soap and water solution and sanded lightly to allow the paint to adhere better. A bonding primer can also be used to improve adhesion and reduce the need for repainting.

Finally, the application process can be done with a sprayer or brushes. Using a roller may not provide the best coverage, and it may use more paint than necessary. An airless sprayer can save a lot of time, and the best tip size to use is one that produces a smaller spray fan width, such as a 310 or 210 tip.

Holiday window painting

Painting windows for the holidays is a fun activity for the whole family. It's a great way to express your cheer for the holidays and get everyone excited. When painting holiday windows, it's important to use the right type of paint that will stick and maintain its colour but is also easy to remove once the holidays are over.

Type of Paint

Tempera paint is a great option for painting windows. It is a fast-drying paint that uses coloured pigments mixed with a water-soluble binder medium. Tempera paint is long-lasting yet easy to remove. You can use powdered tempera paint and mix it with a small amount of water. Adding a little bit of dish soap will help the paint stick to the windows. You can also add a bit of white paint to all other colours except the black outline to make them stand out on the glass.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid painting inside the windows unless you live in a region with a lot of rainfall. Painting inside will reduce the visibility of your artwork due to the reflection of the glass from the outside.
• Avoid using old paint, as it may drip down and create a mess.
• Avoid painting dark colours on vinyl window frames, as they will absorb more heat and may cause the vinyl to warp in warmer weather.

Window Washing

Before you start painting, make sure to wash your windows thoroughly. Use a couple of drops of dish soap in your wash bucket to get them sparkling clean and ready for paint.

Design Ideas

• Snowman: Start with three stacked circles for the body and head, then add a rectangle for the hat with a thick line for the brim and a line for the hatband. Draw lines for the scarf and arms—you can use black sticks or snowy arms with mittens. Fill in the largest area with white paint, then add the secondary colour for the scarf. Outline the white areas in blue or black and the darker areas in white.
• Santa Claus: Paint silhouettes or cartoon images of Santa Claus, such as diving down the chimney, riding a motorcycle, or lounging at the beach. You can also paint his reindeer team pulling the sled or as a solo feature in a window design.
• Wreaths: Wreaths are a staple holiday decorating design and can be painted in various colours and textures. They are ideal for trimming doors or awkwardly spaced windows and can be decorated with bows, pine cones, toys, or candy.

Lettering

The lettering in your design will be the focal point. You can use cursive or plain text and decorate it with holiday-related images and sparkles. You can also be politically correct with your greetings and go for "Happy Holidays" or "Season's Greetings."

So, get your paintbrushes ready and let your creativity flow! Holiday window painting is a fun and engaging activity that will spread cheer and put a smile on people's faces.

Window frames

Painting window frames can be a great way to update the appearance of your windows without having to replace them. However, there are a few things to keep in mind, especially when it comes to vinyl window frames.

Vinyl windows are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a flexible, waterproof, but not very durable plastic. Over time, vinyl windows can become scratched and scuffed, and they may even discolour or peel. Painting vinyl window frames can be a controversial topic, as contractors say it can be done, while window manufacturers advise against it. Paint professionals generally warn that no paint will last as long as the original vinyl finish, and it may chip and look unsightly. Additionally, painting your windows while they are still under warranty may void it.

If you decide to paint your vinyl window frames, there are a few steps you should take to ensure the best results:

• Use a bonding primer to help the paint adhere to the slick vinyl surface.
• Lightly sand the vinyl window frames first to create a better surface for the paint to stick to.
• Choose a vinyl-safe colour. Many paint manufacturers will list the colours they recommend for vinyl.
• Use high-quality paint.
• Clean the windows thoroughly before applying the primer.
• Consider using a paint that is specifically designed for vinyl surfaces.

For window frames made of other materials, such as wood or metal, the process is similar. However, you may need to use a different type of primer depending on the material. It is important to select a primer that is specific to the type of window frame you are painting. When painting window frames, it is generally recommended to use two coats of primer and two coats of paint. Additionally, be sure to tape off the window frames to protect the surrounding areas.

Overall, painting your window frames can be a great way to update the look of your windows, but it is important to follow the proper steps to ensure the best results.

Window sills

Painting window sills can help transform the exterior and interior of your home. It is a simple way to give your windows a perfect finish and can be a great way to update their appearance.

Before you start painting, you will need to remove or move any furniture so you have space to work. Cover the furniture with dust sheets and lay down dust sheets under the window sill to be painted. If painting exterior window sills, make enough room to work and leave space for a ladder if painting first-floor windows.

Next, you will need to prep the area. Start by removing any loose paint with a scraper and/or a wire brush if outside. Use coarse-grade sandpaper to even out any rough bumps and lumps if necessary. Then, use a finer grade sandpaper to get a smooth finish. Tape around the edges of the sill to protect the surrounding area from paint splatters.

Now, fill in any holes or gaps with an appropriate filler and leave it to dry. Brush or vacuum up any dust and wipe down the sill with a damp cloth.

The next step is to prime the window sill. If you are painting bare wood, add a wood primer; if painting bare masonry/concrete, add a suitable primer. Cut in with a brush along the inside edge and then work outwards. Finish by painting the front of the sill and let it dry.

Finally, it's time to paint! Choose a paint that is durable and easy to clean. You can use a brush or a roller for this step. If using a roller, use a 4-inch roller and create an edge around the sill with a brush first. Do not overload the roller—thin coats are better. Add as many coats as needed to achieve your desired colour and finish.

And that's it! With a bit of time and effort, you can transform the look of your windows and give them a fresh, new feel.

Glass windows

Types of Paint for Glass Windows

There are several types of paint suitable for glass windows, and the type you choose will depend on the look and purpose you want to achieve.

• Acrylic Enamel Paints: These paints can be transparent or opaque and offer glossy and frosted finishes. Enamel-based acrylics are durable and permanent, making them ideal for smooth surfaces like glass. They can be air-dried or cured in an oven after they have dried.
• Acrylic Paints for Glass: Water-based acrylic paints are more opaque, but transparent options are also available. These paints are specially manufactured for glass painting and can be applied to various surfaces, including glass. They can be air-dried or heat-set, depending on the product instructions.
• Solvent-Based Paints: Solvent or oil-based paints are more expensive and toxic than acrylic paints. They create a permanent and beautiful stained-glass effect on the glass. These paints can be brushed on, sprayed, or applied with a dropper.
• Frosted Glass Paint: Frosted glass paint is an excellent option if you want something with less light filtering but still offers privacy. It is easy to apply, quick-drying, and one of the cheapest ways to paint a window.
• Tempera Paint: Tempera paint is perfect for temporary window painting, especially if you have children who want to explore their artistic abilities. It offers bright matte colours and adheres well to glass. It can be easily removed with a vinegar and water solution.

Tips for Painting Glass Windows

• Clean the Glass: Before painting, thoroughly clean the glass surface with soap and water to remove any dirt, grease, or oily fingerprints. You can also use rubbing alcohol for a more thorough clean.
• Prepare the Surface: Use painter's tape to cover areas you don't want to paint, such as the window frame. If you plan to use a stencil or create a detailed art piece, consider applying a base coat or background. You can also apply a layer of gesso to make the glass opaque before adding your base coat.
• Choose the Right Brush: The type of brush you use will determine the finish. Synthetic brushes will create visible brush strokes, while natural brushes will give you a smoother finish. Foam brushes are ideal for stencils and base coats.
• Apply Paint: Start painting at the top left or right side of the area to avoid smudging your design. Use thin, even layers of paint, and work with one colour at a time. Allow each layer to dry before adding another coat to prevent colours from bleeding into each other.
• Curing and Sealing: Curing painted glass makes it more durable, but this can take up to a month. Since baking painted glass is not possible for windows, you will need to be patient and keep the glass surface untouched and protected from water during this time. You can also use an acrylic sealant specifically designed for glass surfaces to improve durability.

Removing Paint from Glass Windows

If you want to remove the paint from your glass windows, the process will depend on the type of paint used. Water-based paints can be wiped off with soap and water. For acrylic paints, a boiled vinegar and water solution can be used to loosen the paint, which can then be gently scraped off with a razor blade.

Frequently asked questions