How to paint aluminium window frames
Aluminium window frames are great for insulation but they may not be the most visually appealing aspect of your home design. If you want to save energy and lock in heat while also creating a cohesive exterior home, a quick lick of paint can do the trick. It takes a little preparation, but with the right metal paint, your window frames can be your favourite home feature.
Painting aluminium window frames can add that welcome splash ofcolour to the exterior of your home, helping make it look crisp and clean. Not to mention it's cheaper and easier than replacement windows, with the vast range of colours available at The Paint Shed you are sure to find one you like.
Now is just the perfect time of year for this quick and easy paint job – transform your windows before the temperatures begin to drop and the nights get shorter. Here are some expert tips for painting metal window frames.
Pick a colour
Aluminium windows can work well in contemporary, modern homes but they might not always complement a traditional colour scheme. If you are aiming for a specific colour palette in your home, aluminium windows could be an unwelcoming distraction, in which case painting is your best option.
What paint colour you choose will depend on your needs, taste and property type. Older, Tudor style homes suit darker windows, like black or brown, while white and grey windows can serve a bold and stylish look. White is also great as a neutral option or if you're feeling more adventurous opt for reds and blues to help your property stand out. Browse our wide selection of metal paints today to find your perfect colour, or if you have a particular shade in mind get in touch and we can mix a pot to your colour specifications.
Preparation
Firstly, you need to give the window frame a really good scrub with soapy water and a clean cloth and ensure you remove any stains as any remaining stains may alter the colour of the finished paint. Chipping paintwork or any rust can be removed using sandpaper however be sure to use sandpaper of between 80-120 grit as this is ideal for removing small imperfections. For stains, douse them in baking soda or vinegar and wipe away with a cloth.
Once blemishes are removed, wipe away any dust residue with a small brush. Next, spray the whole aluminium window frame with a thin coat of lubricant and scrub with a small bristle brush or toothbrush for any hard to reach spots. After scrubbing the entire surface, wipe the window frame with a clean cloth to remove any residue that may remain from cleaning. You should also take a glass cleaner to the windows before proceeding to paint.
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Priming
Before starting to prime or paint your windows we advise that you tape around the frame to protect your surroundings from paint drips or splatter. Using masking tape or painter's tape, tape both sides of the window where the glass meets the frame and on the outside of the frame.
Next, apply a coat of metal primer like Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer to the frame and allow this to dry (this can take up to eight hours). Metal surfaces need to be primed for the paint to adhere properly, so it is important that you follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
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Painting
Now you’re ready to paint the window frame.
Step 1: Open the exterior paint tin and stir with a spatula for about a minute to even out the colour
Step 2: Use a suitably small paintbrush to apply, ensuring all excess paint has been wiped off the paintbrush on the side of the tin before coming into contact with the window frame
Step 3: For a nice even coat of paint, glide the paintbrush up and down the window frame smoothly, until you have applied one coat to the surface
Step 4:: Allow each coat to dry fully and create a gentle key before applying a second and third coat of paint until the aluminium is completely coloured, with no metal shining through
Remember: make sure the paint is completely dry before applying another coat. Several thin coats are better than one thick one as thin coats take less time to dry and this approach produces a harder finish and looks better too.
Step 5: When the paint is completely dry, you can remove your tape and any paint on the glass panes by using a scraper blade or razor blade. Then, hold the blade vertically and scrape along the edge of the frame where it meets the glass. Be careful to ensure that the paint on the frame still overlaps the glass a small amount creating a watertight seal.
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Metal paint at The Paint Shed
Transform your aluminium windows today with our exterior metal paint. All of our metal paints are designed to provide a strong protective coating. At The Paint Shed, you'll find a range of colours and trusted brands including Dulux Trade, Johnstone's Trade and Coo-Var.
Get in touch
If you have any questions, our paint experts are here to help. Contact us on 033 3320 2369 or email [email protected]
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