Is painting UPVC window frames a bad idea?

7 years ago

last modified: 7 years ago

I know it can be done with special primer and we are tempted because we can match it up to the woodwork and sort of disguise the plastic a bit. But I suspect maintenance, keeping them looking good would be a nightmare? Rod for one's own back etc. Any experience?

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Tani H-S

6 years ago

I know this thread is slightly old now, but I've just used Bedec msp paint on the outside of my upvc porch and it's amazing stuff! Would highly recommend (took me years to pluck up the courage to try it)

I spoke to the company's rep and got advice on what to use.

Clean with an anti-fungal cleaner (NOT sugar soap as that leaves a residue) let dry.

Scour with a green scoured pad OR a v v fine sandpaper which is only to take off the sheen and not to scratch the plastic.
Wipe clean with water and let dry.

Apply the paint with a brush not too thickly or thinly. Wait to dry 2-6 hours then repaint.

Takes one month to cure.

My experience - I did black over brown and 2 coats was fine. I found all the brushes I tried (not real hair ones) did leave some marks but I think that's due to the paint. Don't go over it too much in one spot. It's quite thick - plasticed when it dries so work quickly. Less of an issue inside when the sun isn't heating it up of course.

Water based so cleans up easily and good range of colours. No primer required so v speedy job!

I debated whether to try this or the bullseye 123 primer etc but I'm glad I went for this as it was a lot less work and it looks brilliant.

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Comments (6)

PRO
Alpha Windows
7 years ago
Hi Adrian, we wouldn't recommend painting your UPVC frames. Are your window frames in good condition? The purpose of UPVC is less maintenance, but if you paint them then they are just as high maintenance as timber frames. If you have a budget then there are lots of other frame styles and colours available.
adrianlowery thanked Alpha Windows
Lauren
7 years ago
Another member on here had his existing UPVC conservatory and windows colour-bonded (as opposed to painted) which looked great and is meant to be long lasting.

You can see the link to the company further down in the comments here:

https://www.houzz.co.uk/discussions/matching-window-frames-in-extension-dsvw-vd~3941487
adrianlowery thanked Lauren
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adrianlowery
Original Author
7 years ago
Thanks both - think we will probably leave them alone.
adrianlowery
Original Author
7 years ago
PS. we were just going to paint them on the inside to match the woodwork, not outside.
Tani H-S
6 years ago
Ps I must add that "upvcpainters" company spray paint upvc to any colour tone in one day and it comes with a ten year guarantee.
Was very reasonable as well as we got a quote for 2 windows, double door frame, garage and surround at £800 plus vat.

Is painting UPVC window frames a bad idea?

Tani H-S

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