Can you paint aluminium windows?
Are your aluminium windows in need of a lick of paint? There are a few things to keep in mind before you get out the paint and brushes.
Since the 1950s, more and more homeowners in the UK have chosen aluminium for window frames, door frames and other features.
As a material for window frames, aluminium has plenty to recommend it. It's long-lasting and doesn't rust, meaning you get a good return on your investment. It's lightweight, giving your windows a sleek, modern look.
What's more, aluminium windows rarely need repainting. But "rarely" isn't the same as "never". Sometimes, you may find your frames looking a little on the tired side. And in that situation, you may wonder whether you can repaint them.
The answer is yes. However, painting aluminium frames is a little more involved than painting a wall. You need to choose your materials with care and prepare the surface before painting. But first, you need to choose a colour.
Pick a colour, any colour
Aluminium frames can be any colour under the sun. Your choice of colour will depend on your taste, of course, but also on the nature of your property.
Older properties often look good with a darker frame. Modern properties can benefit from neutral, minimalistic whites, blacks or greys. Alternatively, they can make a statement with bold primary colours.
Whatever colour you choose, you can't just slap on a coat of paint and hope for the best. First, you need to prepare the surface.
Preparation is all
When it comes to painting aluminium frames, preparation is essential. Cut corners and it won't be long before you're looking at a peeling, chipped frame.
First, clean the frames using a microfibre cloth and a cleaning solution. This could be isopropyl alcohol, a mixture of detergent and warm water or another mild solution. The mildness is important. Anything harsh or acidic could damage the frames.
Once you've removed the dirt and grime, you need to sand the frames. Take some fine-grit sandpaper and gently sand the surface. Your aim isn't to fully smooth down the surface. Instead, you want to rough it up. Once this is done, you should dust off any residue.
If there are stains left, douse them in baking soda or vinegar and wipe them off with a soft cloth.
What type of paint should you use on aluminium window frames?
Aluminium frames expand and contract with the heat. This means you need a type of paint that will move with the frames.
Acrylic is ideal for this purpose. On top of its flexibility, it dries quickly, meaning you can start cleaning more quickly than with other types of paint.
Alternatives include epoxy paints and oil paints. Oil paints, however, are quicker to crack and peel than acrylic paints.
How to paint aluminium window frames
There are a couple of precautions to take when painting aluminium frames. These are to avoid making a mess and to protect you against the fumes in primers and aluminium paints.
Before you start painting, cover the glass with paper held in place by masking tape. Cover any nearby areas that you want to keep clean. You may also want to put a dust sheet on the floor below the windows.
Primer and aluminium paint contain toxic fumes. At the very least, you should ventilate the area and wear a mask and gloves.
You're now ready to start painting. First, add primer. When you buy the primer, make sure it's suitable for metal surfaces.
Your aim is to create a smooth and even base for the paint. To accomplish this, apply the primer evenly to every part of the frame you intend to paint. You can do this with a spray or a brush.
Let the primer dry and check for bubbled or uneven areas. These can be smoothed out with sandpaper. Once smoothed down, wipe away any dust left behind.
Now, on to your chosen colour. You will need a minimum of two coats of acrylic paint. In some cases, you may need a third coat.
As with the primer, you should aim to apply it evenly and thinly. This will help you achieve a tough finish.
If you're using a brush, you can dab the paint into hard-to-reach corners and edges. These can then be smoothed out with the brush.
Finally, leave it to dry and lightly rub down the frames. Your frames should now be looking as fresh as a daisy.
How to maintain the finish on your aluminium window
As with many household tasks, your best bet when cleaning aluminium windows is to do it little and often. This stops the build-up of dirt and means you can do the job quickly.
Use mild detergent mixed with warm water and apply it with a soft cloth. Make sure to use a mild detergent, as anything more abrasive can damage your frames.
If there are any stubborn spots, you can attack them with a mixture of vinegar and water. Minor scratches can be covered up with paint. If the scratch is deep, lightly sand the area before applying paint.
Frequently asked questions
Why is aluminium used for window frames?
Aluminium is a popular choice for window frames because it's strong, long-lasting and resistant to corrosion. This means you're less likely to need to repaint or replace them down the line. They also often have a sleek, minimalistic look, which many homeowners find appealing.
Why do aluminium window frames not corrode?
Aluminium is protected by a natural layer of aluminium oxide. This stops the material from rusting. This resistance to corrosion makes it ideal for outdoor installations such as window frames.
How do you clean aluminium window frames?
Aluminium windows can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth, such as a microfibre cloth. You should avoid abrasive or harsh cleaning solutions as these can damage the surface.
We love a bit of DIY – but sometimes it's better to replace than apply a new lick of paint. Are you looking for new aluminium windows in Yorkshire? Here at Calder Windows, we've been supplying high-quality products to local homeowners for more than 30 years. Get in touch and we'll give you a quick, competitive quote for an expertly fitted new window.
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