How To Paint uPVC Windows? A Step-By-Step Guide

Have your white plastic windows seen better days? Want to give your home a fresh, modern look without the cost of replacement? You can simply paint uPVC windows to transform their appearance and elevate your home’s kerb appeal. With the right tools, techniques, and products, achieving a professional-looking finish is possible.

In this detailed uPVC painting guide, we’ll walk you through every stage, from preparation to the final coat, ensuring your windows look great and stand the test of time.

At Concept Coatings, we specialise in flawless, long-lasting uPVC painting services for homes and businesses. Want expert results without the hassle? Contact us today for a free quote!

Contact us today on 0203 916 5632 or email us at info@concept-coatings.co.uk to transform the look of your windows!  

Can You Paint uPVC Windows?

Yes, you absolutely can! Modern uPVC paint products are specially designed to bond with plastic surfaces, offering a smooth, durable finish. Whether you want a classic grey, bold black, or something different, painting uPVC can completely transform your windows and exterior styling.

However, success lies in good preparation and using the right materials.

Tools And Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, make sure you have the following items:

• uPVC surface cleaner
• Masking tape and dust sheets
• Fine-grit sandpaper (around 400 grit)
• Microfibre cloth
• Tack cloth (for dust removal)
• Priming plastic surfaces with the product (if required)
• Acrylic paint for uPVC or other specialist uPVC paint products
• Soft-bristled brushes or spray paint equipment
• Weather-friendly conditions (dry, not too hot or windy)

You can buy uPVC paint online or at most hardware stores—just ensure it’s formulated specifically for plastic and exterior use.

Step-By-Step: How To Paint uPVC Windows

1. Prepare The uPVC Surface Thoroughly

Preparation is key. Clean all the frames using a strong uPVC surface cleaner to remove dirt, grime, grease, and silicone. If the surface isn’t clean, the paint won’t adhere properly.

Dry the surface thoroughly with a lint-free cloth and inspect for any damage or peeling sections. Any old or damaged sealant should be removed and replaced before painting.

2. Sanding uPVC Windows

Lightly sand the uPVC using fine-grit sandpaper. This will create a slight key for the paint to adhere to. You don’t need to remove the top layer—just dull the sheen of the plastic.

Wipe away all sanding dust using a tack cloth. Cleanliness here will ensure a smooth, even finish later on.

3. Mask And Protect

Use masking tape to protect glass panes, handles, and surrounding brickwork or render. Lay down dust sheets if you’re painting near walls or floors. This is especially important for exterior window painting, as overspray or drips can easily occur.

4. Apply Primer (If Needed)

Some uPVC paint products are self-priming, meaning they don’t need a separate primer. However, if your chosen product recommends priming, apply a thin coat of priming plastic surfaces solution and allow it to dry thoroughly before proceeding.

This extra step enhances adhesion and helps the topcoat last longer, particularly in harsh weather conditions.

5. Painting The Windows

Now it’s time to paint uPVC windows. Depending on your desired finish, you can use a brush, roller, or spray. For a more uniform, factory-finish look, spraying works well for smaller sections and trims.

Apply the first coat thinly and evenly. Don’t overload the brush; avoid repeatedly going over the same area, as it can cause streaks.

Allow the first coat to dry per the manufacturer’s instructions, typically 2–4 hours.

Apply a second coat for better coverage and colour depth. Two coats are usually enough, but a third may be necessary for bold colour changes or full coverage.

6. Let It Cure

After your final coat, let the paint cure fully. While it might feel dry to the touch after a few hours, it often takes several days to reach full hardness, particularly in cooler weather.

Avoid cleaning or handling the windows during this time, and ensure they’re not exposed to extreme rain or heat immediately after painting.

Choosing The Right Paint

When selecting uPVC paint products, choose ones specifically designed for plastic surfaces and exterior use. Acrylic paint for uPVC is a popular choice as it’s flexible, fade-resistant, and provides a smooth finish.

Choose paints with a weather-resistant coating to protect your windows from UV rays, rain, and changing temperatures for the best results.

Expert Tips For Better Results

• Always check the weather forecast before exterior window painting—dry, mild days are best.
• Use light, even strokes, whether brushing or spraying.
• Practice on a hidden section first to get comfortable with the paint and tools.
• Avoid overly thick coats; thin layers dry faster and reduce drips.

Should You Hire A Professional?

If you’re short on time, lack the right tools, or want a flawless, long-lasting finish, a professional uPVC painting service is the way to go. Experts use industrial-grade sprayers and high-performance coatings to achieve a seamless look with minimal disruption.

At Concept Coatings, we deliver expert uPVC window transformations using premium materials and precision techniques. Our team ensures a smooth, durable finish every time.

Call us on 0203 916 5632 today!

Final Thoughts

Learning how to paint uPVC windows is a brilliant way to modernise your home without spending a fortune on replacements. Even a DIYer can achieve sleek, long-lasting results with careful prep, quality materials, and patience. Not only will it improve your home’s kerb appeal, but it can also contribute to a more cohesive and updated aesthetic.

At Concept Coatings, we take pride in helping homeowners transform their properties through professional uPVC painting services. Whether you’re after a quick refresh or a bold new look, our expert team delivers top-tier results with a perfect finish every time.

Contact us today for a consultation and let us bring your vision to life.