If you are not happy with the color of your aluminum frames don’t worry, you don’t have to replace them, you can just repaint them.
Depending on the surface of the aluminum, the size, and position of the window price vary from $170 to $240 per window for both sides. However, it is far cheaper and with far less mess than replacing the windows.
A few factors can affect the cost of painting aluminum window frames. The size of the window, position on the property, type of paint, preparation, and a few things affect the price. Generally, you can expect to pay between $170 and $240 per window.
However, if you don’t take into consideration the damage to the surrounding surfaces that will be caused by ripping old windows, the painting will cost between 25% to 50% of the cost of replacement.
Benefits of painting aluminum window frames
Versatility is one of the strongest sides of aluminum. Aluminum window frames are less expensive than other materials; they reduce carbon levels and are flexible to design and get the look you want. With spray finishes, you can achieve the look of the original powder coat, and you have a nearly unlimited choice of colors. The paint dries quickly so that you can use your windows within an hour or two.
Repainting aluminum window frames makes your windows look new and strengthens the joinery making them more resistant to elements. Aluminum frames can be in matte, gloss, or satin.
Why painting instead of replacing
Don’t rush with replacing your aluminum window frames. Painting them gives you a fresh and new look while saving up to 70% on the cost of replacement. Not to mention ensuring you keep disruption to a minimum while the work is being completed, which usually takes 3-4 days to paint an average house.
The bottom line is that painting the existing frames saves you time and money while providing you a fresh and new look to your property and for sure adding the resale value of the house.
Spray paint aluminum window frames
Even if you can use paint for this task, the general opinion among professionals is that spray paint is a much more effective and cleaner application method when painting aluminum window frames. Also, aluminum window frames tend to have a lot of grooves and hard-to-reach places, which is why spraying is the best option.
Process of painting - pick a color, preparation, priming
Pick a color
Picking a color depends on your taste, needs, and property type. Older houses suit well with darker windows, like black or brown, while white and grey frames can provide a bold and stylish look. White as an option is neutral and universal; you can’t go wrong with white. If you want your property to stand out, go with red or blue.
Preparation
Step 0: Remove any handles or latches you do not wish to paint. If you can, it is better to remove the window from the frame and paint separately.
Step 1: Clean the surface to remove any stains with soapy water and a clean cloth.
Step 2: If there is flaking paint on the windows, you will need to remove this before you start. Use a spatula and a wire brush, then paint with a stripper to get the harder-to-remove paint.
Step 3: Finish off with steel wool and 500-grit wet and dry sandpaper to get a clean, smooth finish.
Step 4: Make sure you clean the surface of all residual paint stripper, grease and grime before painting.
Step 5: Tape all edges of the surface to protect from overspray. The wind can carry spray paint a long way so be mindful of your immediate surroundings and where your car is parked.
Proces of painting - Steps
When you have finished picking a color, preparation, and priming it is time to start with painting. Follow the steps below are for spraying the frames:
Step 1: Shake the can well to make sure the paint is mixed well in the spray gun;
Step 2: Use even controlled passes making sure the nozzle is at least 4 inches away from the surface. Apply very think coats to avoid running;
Step 3: Once the first coat is fully dry, use some wet and dry 800 – 1200 grit sandpaper to lightly remove any imperfections before applying your second coat;
Step 4: Repeat step 3 until you have a minimum of 2 coats, but I recommend 3 coats for the best finish.
Step 5: Once fully dry remove all masking tape and enjoy your new windows.
FAQ's
With proper maintenance and if the windows are not exposed to extreme weather conditions you can expect 10+ years of lifespan of the coating.
Latex or acrylic paints are the best for painting aluminum. Choose the ones designed for use on metal. For exterior be sure that the paint is exterior grade. Try to avoid high-gloss paints because they will highlight imperfections on the surface.
30 minutes to an hour per coat. If painting window sashes, add 30 minutes for each window to move them as you paint to avoid sealing the window shut when it dries.
