Can you paint uPVC windows?

Yes, you can paint uPVC windows.
But before you grab a tin of paint and call it a weekend job, there’s something you need to know: uPVC is designed to resist sticking to it.

Get the prep and products right, and you can end up with a slick, modern finish. Get them wrong, and you’ll be watching corners peel and edges chip sooner than you’d like.

This guide breaks down the full process, what you’ll need, and the common failures. Then we’ll look at the simpler alternative: replacing tired frames with brand-new coloured uPVC windows that give you the look you want without the DIY risk.

Quick answer: can you paint uPVC windows?

Yes. You can paint uPVC window frames if you use the right paint system and do the correct preparation.
But: it’s not a “quick weekend makeover” unless you’re meticulous. Skipping steps (especially cleaning, abrasion, and priming) is where most DIY uPVC paint jobs fail.

Why people paint uPVC doors and windows in the first place

Most homeowners look into painting because:

• They’ve inherited white windows and want a modern colour refresh
• Frames look tired, yellowed, or unevenly weathered
• They want the look of new windows without the upfront cost
• They’re matching new doors, render, or cladding colours

All fair reasons. Just go in with eyes open: uPVC painting is a process, not a “two coats and done” job.

Pros and cons of painting uPVC windows

Pros

• Cheaper than replacement in the short term
• Colour choice can transform kerb appeal fast
• Useful for extending the look of windows that are otherwise still performing well

Cons (the bit most guides gloss over)

• uPVC wasn’t meant to be painted; maintenance/repainting can become part of the deal
• A poor finish can look worse than the original (brush marks, lap lines, peeling paint)
• Paint can fail faster on high-touch areas and on frames exposed to strong sun/weather
• You’ll need careful masking to avoid paint on seals, hardware, and glass

What you need to paint uPVC windows properly

Here’s a sensible “don’t cut corners” checklist based on established DIY guidance:

Materials

• Masking tape (plus dust sheets/newspaper protection)
• Fine sandpaper (or fine abrasive pads)
• uPVC-compatible primer (or a uPVC paint system that explicitly states self-priming)
• uPVC / hard-plastic suitable paint (don’t assume standard household paint will bond well)

Tools

• Quality brush(es)/small roller or an electric sprayer (spraying can reduce brush marks on long frame runs)
• Cloths/microfibre cloths for wipe-down
• Ladder + safe working setup if you’re painting upstairs frames

Step-by-step: how to paint uPVC windows (DIY method)

1) Choose the right time (don’t ignore this)

Pick a dry spell. Avoid painting in damp conditions, freezing temperatures, or blazing direct sun where paint can “skin” too quickly and drag.

If any windows are upstairs, plan ladder safety and ideally have someone with you.

2) Deep clean the frames (properly)

uPVC holds onto invisible grime: traffic film, silicone residue, hand oils, and general dirt. Cleaning is non-negotiable.

3) Mask everything you don’t want painted

Tape off:

• Glass edges
• Brick/render edges
• Rubber seals and gaskets
• Trickle vents and hardware you’re not removing

4) Lightly sand/abrade the uPVC

This is the “paint needs something to grip” step. You’re not trying to strip anything back, you’re creating a key.

5) Remove dust and wipe down again

After sanding, wipe away dust with a clean cloth so you’re not painting over powder (which weakens the bond).

6) Prime (unless your paint system is genuinely self-priming)

Priming improves bonding and helps prevent early peeling.
Some products claim primer isn’t required, but priming is still commonly recommended for best results.

7) Paint in thin, even coats (don’t chase perfection in one coat)

• Apply a thin coat
• Let it completely dry
• Apply the next coat

You may need multiple coats for a clean, even finish, and drying can take time depending on the season.

Spraying vs brushing: Spraying can give a smoother look on long uPVC runs and hard-to-reach areas, if you can mask well and control overspray.

8) Let it cure before you treat it like “done”

Dry-to-touch isn’t cured. Leave all the windows closed/opened carefully and avoid heavy cleaning or knocks until the finish has properly hardened.

Common mistakes that cause peeling, streaks, and regret

• Using the wrong paint type
• Skipping primer
• Not sanding/abrading
• Painting over grime or silicone residue
• Rushing the drying and curing times

How long does uPVC paint last?

It depends on the paint system you use, how well you prep the frames, how exposed the windows are (south-facing frames usually take more of a battering from sun and weather), and how often the frames are cleaned or handled.

Some specialist exterior uPVC paints do claim long-lasting durability, but in the real world, the lifespan still comes down to getting the preparation and application right.

When painting uPVC windows makes sense (and when it doesn’t)

Painting can make sense if:

• Your windows are mechanically sound (no draughts, no seal problems)
• You want a cosmetic refresh and accept this is a “finish” that may need maintenance

Replacement is usually the smarter option if:

• Frames are older and looking tired because the windows themselves are tired
• You’ve got draughts, sticking openers, or failing seals
• You want a colour change and better performance (warmth, security, noise reduction)

The easier route: upgrade to coloured uPVC windows

If you love the look of grey, black, or woodgrain frames, the simplest path is often to replace your windows in the colour you actually want, with a factory-applied finish designed to last.

Modern uPVC windows offer:

• Excellent energy efficiency through multi-chambered profiles
• High-performance glazing
• A wide range of coloured and woodgrain finishes
• Consistent colour that won’t peel or need repainting

Instead of turning your windows into an ongoing DIY paint project, you get a clean, long-lasting finish built into the product.

Why choose Ken Rhodes for new uPVC windows?

If you’re looking at painting your frames, it usually means one thing: you want a fresh, modern look, but you don’t want a DIY job that might peel, chip, or need doing again.

That’s where Ken Rhodes comes in. They’re a family-run double glazing company based in Essex, supplying and installing high-quality uPVC windows across the South East, with a range of modern styles and finishes that give you the colour you want without the hassle of painting.

Instead of spending weekends sanding, masking, priming, and hoping for the best, you can upgrade to coloured uPVC windows that look right from day one, and improve comfort, efficiency, and security at the same time.

Ready to skip the DIY and get it done properly?
Get in touch with Ken Rhodes for a quote or visit their showroom to see the finishes in person.