Painting wooden window frames: how it works
We explain how to sand and paint weathered wooden window frames, which types of paint are suitable, and how much it costs.
iStock/Zbynek Pospisil
1. Step-by-step instructions: painting wooden window frames
Wooden window frames add charm to your home, but need regular care. Painting wooden window frames requires some preparation and careful work. This is how to achieve results that last.
Preparation
Before you start painting your wooden window frames, you should prepare them properly. First, remove all dirt and dust. Then apply tape around the edge of the glass. Masking tape is good for this. It can then be removed easily once the painting is finished. Cover the pane of glass with a protective film.
Sanding down wooden window frames
Sand all surfaces that you want to paint. Just want to freshen up the colour? Then there’s no need to use coarse sandpaper.
If you paint very weathered wooden window frames, you should remove the old paint completely. The best way to do this is with paint stripper. Leave it on briefly and then remove the old paint with a spatula. A hair dryer can make things easier. It warms the paint, softens it and makes it easier to remove old layers.
Now coat the wooden frame with impregnation primer. In this way, you create an optimal surface for painting the wooden window frames.
Remember: when painting, wear a respirator mask and ventilate regularly. This protects you from toxic fumes and chemicals.
Painting wooden window frames: which paint is suitable?
You can use varnish or glaze to paint wooden window frames.
Lacquer
Are you looking for good coverage? Then lacquer is the right choice. Coloured lacquer has high opacity. The wood grain is no longer visible after painting.
Lacquer forms a closed, opaque layer on the wood. This is a good way to protect wooden window frames from moisture and weather. Lacquer is therefore particularly suited to the outsides of windows. Be sure to choose a paint that is suitable for outdoor use.
Varnish
Varnish is less opaque than lacquer. If you paint your wooden window frames with varnish, the wood grain remains visible. Use a thick-varnish, especially for exterior painting. This is the best way to protect wooden window frames from the elements.
Priming and painting
Have you decided to paint your wooden window frames with lacquer? Then you need to prime the wood first. If you varnish your windows, you can skip this step. Instead, simply apply the first layer of varnish. Allow the primer or varnish to dry completely. This typically takes between 12 and 24 hours.
Then, in both cases, use sandpaper on the primer or base varnish layer. This helps the subsequent layers of paint hold better.
When you paint your wooden window frames with lacquer, you now apply a first coat of paint. When varnishing, follow with a second layer of varnish. Always let each layer of paint dry completely before proceeding. Then sand the layer one last time. Finally, apply a last coat of paint to finish off your wooden window frames.
2. Painting wooden window frames: costs
The cost of painting wooden window frames varies depending on the condition and size of the window. The cost of materials for painting window frames is approximately 30 to 60 francs.
How much does it cost to have wooden window frames painted?
Professionals usually charge 70 to 150 francs per window. This price includes both materials and labour.
It can be worth hiring a professional painter. They ensure an even and durable coat of paint and use the appropriate materials.
3. Painting wooden window frames: advantages
Painting wooden window frames has many advantages.
Longer lifespan: regularly painted wooden window frames remain resistant to the elements and pests.
Protection from the elements: varnish and lacquer protect the wood from moisture, mould and UV radiation, especially on the outer facade.
Aesthetic enhancement: freshly painted windows look neat and give the house a new shine – both inside and out.
4. Summary
It’s crucial to regularly paint window frames to protect them from the effects of the weather and general wear and tear. With the right preparation and some craftsmanship, you can do the painting yourself and save costs. If you want to save yourself the effort, you can leave the painting to a specialist.