How to: paint the windows

"Which lacquer do I need? Can I also lacquer my PVC or aluminium window frames?" Below you will find the answers to your questions, a handy step-by-step plan, and some top products you can use!

Further on this page, you'll also find step-by-step instructions on how to paint your windows on the outside. "Which lacquer do I need to paint my wooden windows? Should I lacquer or should I stain? What is the difference between lacquering and staining? Can I still lacquer previously stained windows? Can I also lacquer my PVC or aluminium window frames?" Again, we're happy to give you all the answers here!

How to paint windows on the inside

Step 1: Preparation

Step 2: Applying primer

Step 3: Lacquering

General Wood PVC/alu

Before painting, you should preferably tape up the window glass and adjoining walls, so that you don't accidentally paint on them as well. Other than that, the most important part of the preparation is to create a "paint-ready" surface. Is there still an old layer of paint on the window frame that is already cracked or flaking? Then it's best to remove it first. You should also clean and degrease the surface well beforehand. Click on the other tabs for more info.

As for wooden surfaces, it is better to use a synthetic thinner to degrease, if it is the first time it is being painted. If the wood has been painted before, degrease it with water and a dash of ammonia or Berdy Clearline. Never use white spirit, because instead of degreasing, it leaves a greasy layer behind, which is not good for the adhesion of the paint. In addition, the wood should be well-sanded and dusted too. This way you'll have an even, clean, grease-free, dry surface as a basis!

Aluminium or PVC window frames will need a little less work. You can simply clean them with water and detergent. Make sure that you rinse thoroughly with clean water after using detergent so that no residue is left behind.

Wood PVC/alu

On the wooden interior of your windows, it's best to use a water-based wood primer, of which you apply two coats. Two coats of primer? Yes, indeed! To achieve a good final result, you absolutely need to apply two coats of primer. If your interior windows have been painted before and the layer of paint is still intact, you can skip this step and apply the finishing coat immediately after cleaning and sanding.

For a PVC or an aluminium window frame, you need a special water-based multi-primer or adhesion primer. Unless you want to paint over an intact layer of paint, you can start directly with the finishing coat after cleaning. The multi-primer will ensure that the paint sticks well to a surface that has not been painted before. You only need one coat of this to provide your windows with a protective undercoat.

Time to start working on the finish now! If your windows are properly prepared and primed (or have been painted before), it makes no difference whether they are made of wood, PVC or aluminium. It is recommended to always use a water-based topcoat, of which you apply one smooth coat.

We do not recommend synthetic lacquer for interior windows, as less sunlight can reach the paint layer indoors and therefore a yellowish shine will remain after a while. And we don't want that, of course! When you're finished with your skilled lacquer application, you can remove your skilfully put tape and admire your newly painted windows.

Preparation

Berdy Clearline - Degreaser

From €7.75

How to: paint the windows

How to paint windows on the inside

Step 1: Preparation

Step 2: Applying primer

Step 3: Lacquering

Checklist

How to paint windows on the outside

Step 1: Preparation

Step 2: Applying primer

Step 3: Lacquering

Checklist

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