Clean, key, prime and paint uPVC window frames or doors for a smooth, durable finish that won't peel.
PW-01Clear the area and protect surfacesMove furniture and lay dust sheets under the window or door. Take off handles and any removable hardware if you can, so you don't have to paint around them. Open the window or door fully so you can reach every edge.
PW-02Wash down the uPVCWash the whole frame with sugar soap and warm water to remove dirt, grease and any silicone residue. Rinse with clean water and leave to dry completely. Any grease left behind will stop the new paint sticking.
PW-03Mask up glass, wall and hardwareRun masking tape along the edge of the glass and along the surrounding wall or reveal. Cover the glass itself with masking film or paper. Mask off any hinges, locks or handles you couldn't remove. Careful masking here makes the finished job look sharp.
PW-04Key the surface with a light sandRub over the whole frame with fine abrasive, around 320-400 grit, or a fine abrasive pad. You only need to dull the shine, not remove the surface. Wipe away all dust with a dry cloth, then a tack cloth, before you paint.
PW-05Apply a specialist uPVC primerUse a primer made specifically for uPVC — ordinary wood or metal primer won't bond properly and will peel off later. Apply one thin, even coat with a brush or foam roller. Leave it to dry fully, following the time given on the tin.
PW-06Apply the first coat of uPVC paintUse paint made specifically for uPVC, in satin or gloss. Apply thin, even coats — thick coats run and take much longer to dry properly. Work in one direction along the frame and don't go back over paint that's starting to skin.
PW-07Apply a second coatOnce the first coat is touch-dry, check the tin for the recoat time, this is often a few hours. Apply a second thin, even coat, checking in good light for any thin patches or missed edges. Full curing can take several days even once it feels dry to touch.
PW-08Remove masking and refit hardwarePeel off the masking tape while the paint is still slightly soft, pulling it back on itself at a shallow angle so you don't tear the paint edge. Refit handles and any hardware you removed. Open and close the window or door to check everything still moves freely.
PW-09Clean up and check for touch-upsWash brushes and rollers as directed on the paint tin — some uPVC paints need white spirit rather than water. Fold up or wash dust sheets. Check the frame again in daylight after a day and touch up any thin spots.