Something as simple as painting the windows on your home can give it a tidy updated appearance. This can help improve curb appeal and resale value on your home. There are a few steps involved so please check out this helpful guide on how to paint windows.
If your windows are in poor condition, you might wish to replace them with energy-efficient Edmonton windows. However, sometimes a simple spruce-up such as a coat of paint and new window dressings can do a lot to improve the comfy vibe of your home.
How to Paint Windows: Supplies Needed
In order to paint your windows in Edmonton, you will need the following materials:
- Caulking gun
- Exterior paint
- Ladder
- Lead paint testing kit
- Multi-purpose cleaner
- Outdoor caulk
- Paintbrushes
- Primer
- Putty knife (or scraper)
- Rags
- Razor blade
- Sandpaper
- Tarp
- Window Glazing Putty
How to Paint Windows: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Clean the windows
Lay a trap on the ground to catch any residue or paint that may fall as you’re cleaning and painting your windows. This will help with the clean-up process.
Use a pressure washer to clean the exterior of your windows. Or you can use a multi-purpose cleaner and a clean rag. This will remove any excess dirt from the trim as well. This will help the new paint adhere to the surface as well as allow you to get a glimpse of the condition of the windows to see if it is time for window replacement.
Step 2: Carefully remove any loose caulking, glazing, or old window paint
It is imperative that you remove any existing paint that is peeling to provide that the paint will go on smoothly. Use a putting knife or paint scraper to carefully remove any existing glaze, caulk, or paint that is loose. If your home is older, it is also advisable to check to see if the old paint contains lead. You might want to wear a mask so that you do not inhale any dust in the process.
Step 3: Sand the Window Surface
Using sandpaper, sand the surface of the window to create a smooth transformation between the existing paint and the areas that you previously scraped. This will allow the primer as well as the new paint to properly adhere. Dust the windows with a clean cloth to remove any residue once you have finished sanding.
Step 4: Repair any damaged glazing and/or caulking
Take the time to fix any caulking or glazing that is damaged. This will only take a few minutes and most caulking dries in a few hours. However, reglazing can take as many as a few days or even weeks. This may delay the priming and painting process a bit.
Step 5: Prime the windows
Before you prime, tape off the window glass to avoid getting paint on the glass itself. If any primer should drip onto the glass, remove it using a damp rag or scrape it off once it has dried. Taking extra care when priming the edges, apply one coat of primer around the window trim surface in its entirety and allow it to dry completely.
Step 6: Paint the windows
Once the primer is totally dry, paint the window surface with the exterior paint. If using a different color than the original paint, you may need to apply an extra coat of paint. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly.
Step 7: Remove excess paint and clean windows
Even if you were extremely careful whilst painting, there will be some behind on the surface of the window as it is almost inevitable. When the paint has dried, use a razor blade to carefully remove any excess paint. It should flake easily away.
When this is finished, use a slightly dampened rag and multi-surface cleaner to remove any excess paint, fingerprints, and other debris.
Should you need further advice on how to paint windows, do not hesitate to contact North Tech Windows and Doors. As well, we can offer you a free quote for replacement windows for optimal energy efficiency as well as style. Give us a call today for a free in-home consultation.
