Painting UPVC windows... insanity?

[Sterillium]

I have quite a few big windows, they're only bog-standard UPVC in the style of the large sashes that they would have once been, but they're fine, they keep the weather out and the heat in etc. But I don't like the stark whiteness of them...

I mentioned this to a friend because my plan was to replace them all with some grey aluminium or painted wooden windows, and he suggested that (as there's nothing wrong with the ones in place) I should consider having them painted.

Is this a thing? I had no idea people painted UPVC windows. Anyone done this? I feel like it'd be faded and flaky in no time and I'd wish I'd never done it - I live by the sea so not exactly the most forgiving environment.

[Sterillium]

caziques said:

Sterillium said:

I have quite a few big windows, they're only bog-standard UPVC in the style of the large sashes that they would have once been, but they're fine, they keep the weather out and the heat in etc. But I don't like the stark whiteness of them...

I mentioned this to a friend because my plan was to replace them all with some grey aluminium

Replace uPVC windows with aluminium!, are you completely mad? Aluminum frames are like having a hole in your wall, unless of course you are referring to thermally broken aluminum.

Yes, absolutely, thermally broken all the way... definitely... (what is it?)

[Sterillium]

joshcowin said:

You can get them wrapped, like a car.

Ah, now that IS interesting... probably longer lasting than seaside paint.

[Sterillium]

V8RX7 said:

Generally when you buy new they are "wrapped" although the industry refer to them as "foiled" a few are painted and IME it isn't very scratch resistant.

I suspect aftermarket wrapping is very inferior as the factory stuff is very tough

There are certainly companies that will spray your windows - I intend to have a try plasticote on mine as it rubs off if you don't like it.

Are you thinking spraying would be more durable than wrapping?

I don't think any of my windows would take much wear, other than the window cleaner's furious chamois and the constant salty air.

[Sterillium]

m3jappa said:

My fear is that after a short period they would look utter st meaning id have to replace them.

Exactly this.

[Sterillium]

Wacky Racer said:

You are over thinking this.

If you REALLY don't like them white, paint them any (sensible) colour you want with GOOD QUALITY non drip paint. Paint sticks to UPVC very well, but try a very small area first, making sure any dirt/ dust has been removed with copious amounts of soap and water.

Before you do that though, check with the local planning/council offices to make sure the colour is acceptable, especially in a seaside town.

I suspect it's more likely I'm under-thinking it to be honest. But I'd rather gather up some information and first hand experiences relating to paints and processes specifically designed for this application, than wing it with something that's GOOD QUALITY but not suitable.

Thankfully there are no planning office restrictions or covenants covering my house.

[Sterillium]

037 said:

I’ve had mine painted to match the new grey ones in my extension

Is that a dark grey? I really like them.

[Sterillium]

LaurasOtherHalf said:

Had the whole front of one of my developments sprayed (along with some side ones) anthracite to match the new extension I built.

Amazing finish, 10 year guarantee (as long as they’re still trading I suppose).

That's excellent - I need to find a company like that in the South West.

[Sterillium]

037 said:

These are the products that my decorator used
They look great 2 years later.

That's useful - I think getting the right primer will be really important.

[Sterillium]

LaurasOtherHalf said:

The house I pictured had the four bay windows done, four small side lights and one rear bathroom window done.

£1200 labour and materials.

They worked of ladders as I only had the back scaffolded, arrived about 10am, were off site by about 2:30pm.

That included re-doing any silicone that needed replacing and cleaning.

That's not bad, I think I'd need about the same (only doing the front at this point) and at circa £1200, the alternative route of replacing all the windows themselves would likely be many time that.