Painting windows has become a popular alternative to installing new replacements, and may appeal to those who are wanting to give their home a new look without having to spend a lot of money. Whether this be by paying for professionals to paint them or by doing the job yourself. If you are considering taking this route yourself, a quick read through our short blog should help make your decision.

The length of time you have had your current windows should play a part towards the decision in painting your windows

If your windows have been recently installed over the past couple of years then they should not be painted. This is because there is an extra layer of plastic added to uPVC windows during the manufacturing process which cannot be painted on.  So, they shouldn’t pose a problem as they are brand new and therefore do not require painting.

White uPVC heritage style windowsAt Emerald, we guarantee our frames for 10 years, meaning if your windows are less than 10 years old and you paint them, your guarantee will be affected. Learn more about our guarantees here. Many installers have similar guarantees, so this should be carefully looked at beforehand.

Replace old windows, don’t paint them!

If your windows are much older than 15 years, you may be spending good money to paint your windows when it is not worth it. Whilst colour plays a key role in the aesthetical value of your windows, their energy efficiency is what protects your home from the outside world. Painting old windows will temporarily refresh your home exterior, but it will not fix their poor performance, something that only upgrading them will solve.

Painting windows could be good in the short-term but it’s not without its drawbacks

If you’re trying to extend the life of your old uPVC windows for a couple more years whilst saving up for news ones, then painting your windows might be right for you. But, if you’re looking for long term it is new windows you need. If you require new windows, why not check out our extensive window range?

uPVC is a material designed to last for many years to come. However, in order to create a smooth finish, the windows need to be sanded down, which means sanding the protective layering and ultimately shortening their lifetime. Another disadvantage of painting is that over time the paint will chip, crack and become damaged over time.

So, all in all, can you paint UPVC window frames?

uPVC windows in grey woodgrain finishThe short answer is yes, but as experts in uPVC windows our advice is that you avoid it. We sell a wide range of uPVC window products, so you are bound to find something that suits your property and budget, with finance options available to help you spread the cost. We also offer a wide range of colours, such as Anthracite Grey, Duck Egg Blue and Agate Grey. Get in touch with us today to receive a free no obligation quote, or to find out more about our products.

Other useful posts:

Which type of window do I have?

Why choose to upgrade to Sliding Sash Windows?

Should I choose Stormproof or Flush Casement Windows?

Areas we serve

Swindon-based family run double glazing installers

With a head office in Swindon, a short trip from the motorway, we are ideally located to offer our services across Wiltshire, Reading, Bath, Bristol, Marlborough, Berkshire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, and other surrounding locations.

Emerald provide and install home improvements in all materials – uPVC, aluminium and traditional timber. No matter what material you choose, you can be sure we’ll provide you consistent quality – our work is always finished to the highest standards, whether you’re installing 2 windows or 20!

Book a home visitView our showroom

What our customers are saying

We pride ourselves on the hundreds of customer reviews that we have collected over our many years of trading. Why not read some of our testimonials yourself, and see how our customers have rated their experience with our service.

See All Reviews

Replacing patio door with a window

Emerald windows were brilliant. The patio door was removed and replaced with a window. All work was carried out from bricking up the outside to plastering the inside. Great work...

Read full review

Lesley B

yell logo

Local Family Friendly Company

We worried about choosing a window company. We looked at all the usual national firms but we preferred the feel of a smaller local family run business as the rep...

Read full review

Stephanie C

yell logo

Very Pleased

Very pleased with the whole process from Mark letting us see and touch the product in the showroom in Swindon (many don't!), to a transparent price breakdown, no "buy now...

Read full review

Casey Collins

google logo

Highly Recommended

Highly recommend Emerald Windows and Doors; new Front and back doors fitted yesterday. Cannot praise Mark the Fitter enough, courteous, friendly and very helpful. Top job with attention to detail...

Read full review

Michelle Webb

facebook logo

Emerald Windows – A Quality Product

Emerald windows have just installed a new composite front door to our property. We are very pleased with the product and the installers were polite, professional and have carried out...

Read full review

Richard K

yell logo

Or click a platform below to leave a review:

FENSA logo consumer protection association (CPA) logo glass and glazing federation (GGF) logo GGP_INSTALLER_AWARDS_23_SHORTLISTED_LOGO bbsa logo