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Can You Paint Vinyl Replacement Windows?

If you have vinyl replacement windows on your Huntington Beach, CA home that need some sprucing up, can you paint them? There is actually a lot of disagreement on this topic, especially when it comes to cost and investment.

For starters, it is possible to paint vinyl windows. However, this doesn’t mean that you should. The main problem with painting vinyl windows is that paint does not stick to vinyl very well. This means that you could do a great job painting, but then a few days later your windows can end up looking worse because the pain is flaking off. Color is also a factor when it comes to painting vinyl windows. Darker colored paint can attract and absorb more solar heat, which can add heat stress to your window frames and make them less energy efficient, or even make them warp.

You also need to be careful painting vinyl replacement windows as this can affect your warranty. Under most warranty plans, altering the window in any way makes the warranty null and void. If you void your warranty, the window manufacturer won’t fix your windows if they break or malfunction. There are some window manufacturers that let you paint vinyl windows, but they usually only accept certain colors.

If you understand the risks of painting your vinyl replacement windows and want to paint them anyway, these tips will help.

  • Get the Supplies – You will need: 220-grit sandpaper, alkyd- based primer specifically made to work on vinyl, vinyl safe latex exterior paint, drop cloth, foam paintbrushes, painter’s tape, warm water and sponges
  • Start with a Clean Window – You have to clean the windows before you can paint them. Use gentle soap and water, then wait for the windows to dry.
  • Sand – Roughing up the frame with sandpaper will help the primer stick to the vinyl better.
  • Cover and Tape – Cover and tape the window glass with newspaper or a drop cloth to protect it from drips.
  • Use Primer – Be sure to use a primer that is made to work on vinyl. Primers that are not made for vinyl can soften the material and damage the integrity of the window. Using a primer is vital, as it will help the paint stick to the windows.
  • Thin Coats – Once the primer is thoroughly dry, apply thin coats of paint with a foam brush and allow each coat to thoroughly dry in between. Look for paints made for use on vinyl.

If you’re saving up for replacement windows, paint is a good option to tide you over. However, in the long-term, investing in Huntington Beach, CA replacement windows is always better as you will get the exact windows you want in terms of style, size, and color. Want to learn more? Cunningham Doors & Windows can help. Please visit us at 1940 E Edinger Ave Santa Ana, CA 92705, or give us a call at (714) 258-2500 for more information on what we can do for you and your windows.

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Cunningham Doors & Windows