Painting your home’s exterior windows might not seem like something that dramatically changes the look of your house, but it’s important to maintain them.
Over time, exposure to the elements can cause wood to rot, metal to rust, or paint to peel, leading to costly repairs if not properly maintained.
A fresh coat of paint not only keeps your windows looking sharp but also shields them from moisture, UV rays, and other environmental factors that can cause long-term damage.
In this guide, I’m going to walk you through the entire process, from choosing the right paint to those final touches that make all the difference.
Let’s dive in!
Choosing Your Paint
The first and probably most critical decision you’ll make when painting your exterior windows is choosing the right paint.
The paint you choose needs to stand up to the elements: rain, snow, sun, and everything in between. A good exterior paint should offer protection, not just aesthetics.
When it comes to paint types, you’ve got a couple of solid options: latex and oil-based.
Latex paint is water-based, making it easier to clean up, and it dries quicker. It’s also more flexible, which is a big plus because it’ll expand and contract with the substrate as the weather changes.
On the other hand, oil-based paints usually level out better. However, they’re more difficult to clean up (think paint thinner) and tend to yellow over time.
Don’t forget about the finish—this is where it can get a bit tricky. For windows, I usually recommend a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish.
Here’s why: these finishes are more resistant to moisture, which is a big deal when you’re dealing with the outdoors.
Plus, they’re easier to clean, which means less maintenance for you down the road.
One more tip: always buy a high-quality paint, even if it costs a bit more. I know it can be tempting to save a few bucks by going with a cheaper brand, but in my experience, you get what you pay for.
Cheap paint won’t cover as well, might require multiple coats, and won’t last as long.
Oil-based paints are being used less and less, the only time where I might use them is when priming bare wood or metal.
Gathering Your Tools and Materials
Here’s a list of tools you’ll need:
- 2-inch angled sash brush
- Primer
- Paint
- Wood Filler (if needed)
- Glazing Putty and Glazing Knife (if needed)
- Caulk and Caulk Gun for cracks and small holes
- Small roller with a 1/4-inch nap (if needed)
- Painter’s tape
- Cleaning Product
- Drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect surrounding areas
- Sturdy ladder or Scaffold/platform for safe access to all window areas
- Safety gear gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask
- Scraper
First things first, you’ll need a high-quality paintbrush. For windows, a 2-inch angled sash brush is my go-to. The angled tip makes it easier to get into those tight corners and ensures a clean, precise line along the edges.
If you’re working with larger areas around the window, consider having a 3-inch brush on hand as well.
Synthetic bristles work best with latex paint, while natural bristles are ideal for oil-based paints.
Don’t skimp on the brush—cheap ones tend to leave brush marks and bristles behind in the paint, and that’s just frustrating to deal with.
You might also want to grab a small roller, especially if you’re dealing with wider trim or larger panes.
A small roller with a 1/4-inch nap is perfect for these areas. It provides a smooth finish and can speed up the process.
For cleaning your windows before painting, you can use a homemade solution, opt for a commercial product like Krud Kutter Prepaint Cleaner, or simply grab convenient wipes such as Crocodile Cloth Paint Cleaning Wipes to quickly and effectively remove dirt, grime, and any residue.
A good ladder or scaffold/platform is another must, especially if you’re dealing with upper-story windows. Make sure it’s sturdy and tall enough to give you safe access to all the areas you need to reach.
If you’re sanding or scraping peeling paint, a dust mask and safety glasses are good to have to avoid inhaling dust and particles from getting in your eyes.
Safety First
When you’re painting exterior windows, safety should always be your top priority.
Ladder and Scaffold Safety
Let’s start with ladder safety because this is where most accidents happen.
If you’re painting windows on the second floor, you’re going to need a sturdy, reliable ladder.
Before you even step on it, make sure the ladder is set up on a stable, level surface. If the ground is uneven, use ladder levelers or place a sturdy board underneath the feet to even things out.
Never, and I mean never, set up your ladder on wet or soft ground; it’s an accident waiting to happen.
When you’re on the ladder, always maintain three points of contact—two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand.
This rule might sound simple, but it’s easy to forget when you’re trying to reach that last corner of the window frame.
Resist the urge to overreach; instead, climb down and move the ladder. Overextending can easily lead to losing your balance.
If you’re using scaffolding, make sure it’s properly assembled and secured. Double-check that the platform is solid and locked in place.
Scaffolding gives you more room to move around compared to a ladder, which is great for larger projects, but it also comes with its own set of risks.
Always use guardrails and never stack them higher than recommended. Also, make sure that the wheels are locked and function properly if the scaffold has them.
I once fell down from a scaffold where the wheels would roll even when locked. It was only 5,5 feet and I only got a sore ankle but it could have been worse.
Protective Gear
Now, let’s talk about protective gear. It might seem like overkill for a simple painting project, but the right gear can make all the difference.
Start with a good pair of work gloves. They’ll protect your hands not just from paint, but from any sharp edges or splinters on the window frames.
As a professional painter I always wear gloves, the only time I’m not wearing gloves is when I’m cleaning. For some reason, when I don’t wear them I always seem to hurt myself in some way, even after all these years.
I also recommend wearing safety glasses when you’re scraping old paint or sanding surfaces. You’d be surprised how easily a small piece of debris can fly up and cause an injury.
If you’re working with oil-based paints or primers, which often have strong fumes, a respirator mask is a must if you have poor ventilation. When painting exterior windows this isn’t usually needed but it’s good to keep this in mind.
A simple dust mask might suffice for debris and dust while sanding, but for stronger chemicals, go for a respirator that’s rated for fumes.
Prep Work Is Key
When it comes to painting your exterior windows, I can’t stress enough how important prep work is. It might not be the most glamorous part of the job, but it’s absolutely crucial if you want a smooth, long-lasting finish.
Skipping or rushing through the prep work is one of the biggest mistakes I see people make, and it often leads to peeling paint, rough surfaces, and, ultimately, having to redo the entire project sooner than you’d like.
Think of it this way: prep work is like laying the foundation for a house. Without a solid base, everything you build on top is at risk.
Over the years, I’ve learned that taking the time to do proper prep work not only makes the painting process easier but also ensures that the results look professional and stand the test of time.
Let’s dive into the key steps you’ll need to take before you even think about opening that paint can.
Cleaning Surfaces
The first step in prepping your windows is to thoroughly clean the surfaces you’ll be painting.
This might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how often it gets overlooked.
Once your windows are clean, let them dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Scrape, Repair, and Prime
After cleaning, it’s time to tackle any old, flaking paint. This step can be done before you clean the surface if the peeling is bad.
Grab a paint scraper and start removing any loose peeling paint. Use sandpaper to sand down edges and any roughness.
Before you start painting, don’t forget to prime the surface. Primer is your best friend here, especially if you’re painting over bare wood, metal, or any repaired areas.
A good primer will seal the surface, provide a consistent base for your paint, and improve adhesion. It also helps the paint cover more evenly and can prevent stains from bleeding through.
Over time, window frames can develop cracks, holes, or rotten spots, especially if they’re wooden. I recommend doing these repairs after you have primed the surface, then the product you choose to repair the damage will adhere better.
For minor imperfections, wood filler or caulk can do the trick. Apply it with a putty knife, smooth it out, and let it dry completely.
If you find more extensive damage, you might need to replace parts of the frame or consult a professional.
Dealing with Glazing Putty for Your Windows
Glazing putty, also known as window putty, plays a crucial role in sealing and securing the glass panes in your windows. It helps keep out drafts, moisture, and, over time, maintains the structure of your windows.
However, if you notice old, loose, or cracked putty, it needs to be replaced before you start painting. Ignoring this step can lead to bigger problems like water damage and rotting wood, so it’s important to address it early on.
Removing Old Putty and Priming
Before applying new putty, you’ll need to remove the old, deteriorating material. Use a putty knife or chisel to gently pry away the loose sections.
Be careful not to damage the glass or the wood frame as you work.
Once the old putty is removed, check the condition of the wood beneath. If the wood is bare, it’s essential to prime it before applying new putty.
Priming helps the putty adhere better and prevents moisture from getting trapped under the new glaze, which can cause rot or other issues down the road.
Allow the primer to fully dry before proceeding with the new putty.
How to Apply Glazing Putty
Once your window is primed and dry, you can apply the new putty:
- Knead the Putty: Take a small amount and knead it in your hands until it becomes pliable.
- Apply to the Frame: Use a glazing knife and press the putty firmly into the channel where the glass meets the frame, starting in one corner and working your way around the window. Make sure the putty fully fills any gaps to create a tight seal.
- Smooth the Putty: After the putty is in place, use the knife to smooth it out, creating a clean, angled edge. The putty should slope slightly away from the glass to direct water off the frame. Take your time with this step to ensure a neat, professional look.
- Allow to Cure: Let the putty cure according to the product’s instructions. Oil-based putty can take several days or even weeks to fully harden, while latex putty is ready to paint much sooner.
DAP Latex Window Glazing is a ready-to-use compound designed for face glazing single-pane glass in wood or metal window frames.
Packaged in a tube, it’s applied with a caulking gun, making it easy to lay down a smooth, consistent bead.
The tube features a spout designed for precise application, allowing you to create an airtight, watertight seal that resists sagging, cracking, shrinking, and chalking.
To apply, simply cut the nozzle at a 45-degree angle to your desired bead size, load the tube into a caulking gun, and apply the compound along the windowpane where the glass meets the frame.
After applying, you can smooth the glazing compound using a putty knife or the angled spout to ensure a professional finish that sheds water.
DAP Latex Window Glazing is primarily made of a synthetic polymer latex as its base, which gives it flexibility and durability.
This product is ideal for both interior and exterior use, and it cleans up easily with water, making it a convenient option for DIYers.
Painting Over the Glazing Putty
Once the putty has cured, it’s time to paint. Always extend your paint slightly over the edge of the putty and onto the glass by about 1/16 of an inch. This seals the putty further and prevents moisture from creeping in. After the paint dries, you can clean up the edges with a razor blade to remove any paint on the glass, leaving a crisp, clean line.
Dealing with glazing putty might seem like a small step, but it’s vital for the longevity of your windows and the quality of your paint job. Replacing old, cracked putty and properly applying new glaze ensures your windows are well-sealed, weather-resistant, and ready for a fresh coat of paint!
Painting Your Exterior Windows
Now that you’ve prepped the windows for painting, let’s apply the top coat. This is the moment where all your hard work starts to pay off, as you finally get to see your windows transform with a fresh, vibrant finish.
Step 1: Start with the Edges and Corners
Begin by painting the edges and corners of the window frame. This allows you to control the paint application in those tight areas where a roller or larger brush might be too cumbersome.
Take your time here, ensuring you have clean, smooth lines, especially around the muntins and along the seams where the frame meets the glass.
Step 2: Paint the Larger Surfaces
Once the edges are done, move on to the larger surfaces of the window frame. If you’re using a roller, a mini roller with a 1/4-inch nap works great for these areas, providing a smooth and even finish.
For those who prefer a brush, continue using long, even strokes. Apply the paint in thin coats to avoid runs.
Step 3: Apply Additional Coats as Needed
After the first coat is dry, evaluate the coverage. You usually need to apply a second coat to achieve a uniform, rich coverage.
Step 4: Remove Painter’s Tape and Clean Up
While the paint is still slightly tacky, carefully remove the painter’s tape to avoid peeling off any dried paint.
If the tape is fully dry, use a sharp blade to score along the edge before removing it if needed.
Once the paint has dried you can clean any paint splatters or smudges off the glass by gently scraping them with a razor blade held at a slight angle.
Conclusion
Painting your home’s exterior windows might seem like a straightforward task, but as we’ve covered, there’s a lot more to it than just picking up a brush and going to town.
From choosing the right paint and tools to taking the time to prep properly, each step plays a crucial role in achieving a professional-looking finish that lasts.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or tackling this project for the first time, following these tips will help you transform your windows and protect them for years to come.
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