Window Spraying: Complete Guide and How To Get A Free Quote

May 8, 2024
11:03 am

Introduction

What is window spraying and how do I go about it. Is that your question?

Sparkling windows are the eyes of your home, letting in light and showcasing your beautiful interior. But over time, grime, dust, and even stubborn stains can build up, dulling the shine of your once pristine windows.

Window spraying is a renovation technique that affords you the luxury of a brand new window without replacing your old one. The process involves applying a special type of paint using advanced spray equipment like a spray gun, resulting in a flawless, even finish that completely transforms your windows.

This technique has grown to become popular and widely accepted especially in UK homes because in addition to being efficient and time-saving, it offers a cost-effective alternative to complete window replacing. Plus unlike replacing, spraying grants you the freedom to choose from a vast colour palette, allowing you to achieve a truly customised look that perfectly complements your style and that of your home.

We offer thousands of colour options from the Full Farrow & Ball Range and RAL Colour Chart.

Here at Spray City, we understand your desire for luxury windows on a budget. That’s why this comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about window spraying, including the benefits, techniques, cost and how to get a free, no-obligation quote to get started.

For a free no-obligation quote, more information about your unique kitchen spraying need, about Spray City, and our different spraying services, you can reach out to us via our Contact page or contact us via Facebook, Whatsapp, Instagram, Call, or Email.

Also, you can read what our clients have to say on Google or visit our Youtube.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Window Spraying

In case you’re wondering if painting or spraying upvc windows is a good idea, you should read this. There are several advantages of spraying your uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) windows, the most common type in UK homes. They include:

Benefits Of Window Spraying

Speed and Efficiency: Compared to traditional brush painting, spraying allows for a quicker and more even application, saving you some valuable time.
Smoother Finish: Spray painting minimises the risk of brushstrokes and uneven coverage, resulting in a smooth, professional-looking finish.
Perfect for Hard-to-Reach Areas: Window spray easily reaches nooks, crannies, and intricate window frames, ensuring a thorough application.
Durable Protection: High-quality spray paints provide a long-lasting, weatherproof coating that shields your windows from the elements.
Cost-effective: Compared to replacing windows, spraying is a much cheaper way to upgrade the look of your home, especially for older windows that are still functional.
Customisation: With a wide variety of spray paint colours available, you can choose a colour that perfectly complements your home’s style.

Disadvantages Of Window Spraying

Despite its known efficiency however, spray painting also has some unique disadvantages depending on certain factors.

1. Durability:

While spray painting has been known for a durability of up to 8-15 years depending on maintenance and paint quality, paint adhesion can be an issue on some window materials leading to peeling and chipping over time. This may require repainting sooner than expected.

However, the good news is that spraying your windows with Spray City gives you ten years warranty, where we bear responsibility for whatever happens to the painting. We have not had complains from clients about services we have rendered yet in over ten years of our existence.

2. Preparation Time:

For a clean and professional outcome, spraying requires thorough preparation, including cleaning, masking surrounding areas, and potentially priming the window surface. This can be quite time-consuming compared to simply replacing the window.

However, if you are spraying your windows with Spray City, we are able to complete most jobs in one or two days and give you the same result as replacing at a cheaper cost to replacing – up to 90%.

3. Window Spraying Overspray:

Even with careful masking, there’s always a risk of getting paint overspray on unwanted surfaces. This requires extra cleanup time and effort.

This is why you need experts like Spray City. Our experts ensure to eliminate the occurrence of overspray and leave your environment properly cleaned up and sparkling.

4. Health Hazards Of Window Spraying:

Spray paint fumes can be irritating and harmful if not handled properly. Proper ventilation and wearing a respirator are crucial during spraying. This is why we advocate that you use professional sprayers because of your health. Our equipment are state-of-the-art and we ensure the safety of our technicians and those around on site.

5. DIY vs. Professional Window Spraying:

While window spraying can be a DIY project, for a guaranteed high-quality finish and to avoid mistakes, hiring a professional brand like Spray City is a better option. The results will definitely be clearly different.

Equipment Needed For Window Spraying

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Respirator: Protects you from inhaling paint fumes.
Safety glasses: This shields your eyes from paint splatter.
Gloves: Protects your hands from paint.
Drop cloths: Catches paint drips and splatters to protect your work area.

2. Spray Painting Equipment:

Paint sprayer: An HVLP (High Volume, Low Pressure) sprayer is generally recommended for window spraying as it provides a finer finish with less overspray compared to conventional sprayers.
Spray gun: Choose a spray gun with a tip size appropriate for the paint you’re using.
Air compressor (if not included with the sprayer): Provides pressurised air to the spray gun.
Paint container or cup: Holds the paint for spraying.

3. Preparation Materials:

Painter’s tape: Used for masking off areas you don’t want painted.
Sandpaper: For scuffing up the window surface to improve paint adhesion.
Cleaning cloths and tack cloths: For cleaning windows before painting.
Mineral spirits or degreaser: Helps remove any grease or grime on the window surface.
Utility knife: To cut painter’s tape and scrape off any paint drippings.

4. Optional But Helpful Items:

Ladder or scaffolding: For reaching high windows.
Heat lamp or shop light: Can aid in drying the paint faster, especially in cooler temperatures.

A Step-by-Step Process On How To Spray Paint Windows

On the surface it might look simple, but there are techniques to ensure a clean, even finish during and after spray painting. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, guiding you to achieving a professional and long-lasting finish.

1st Step: Safety First

Ventilation: Window spraying creates fumes that are harmful for breathing. Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows and doors. If possible, spray outdoors on a calm day.
Protection: Wear protective gloves, goggles, and a respirator to protect yourself from paint fumes and particles.
Drop cloths: Lay down drop cloths to protect surrounding areas from paint splatter and overspray.

2nd Step: Preparation For Window Spraying

Gather your supplies: This includes items like:
- Window cleaner (ammonia-free)
- Soft cloths/sponges
- Painter’s tape (different widths)
- Drop cloths/plastic sheeting
- Sandpaper (optional, for minor imperfections)
- Specialised window spray paint (chosen for your window material)
- Spray gun (consider renting a professional one)
- Mineral spirits (for cleaning the spray gun)
Clean the windows: Thorough wash your windows with a solution of warm water and washing-up liquid. Remove any dirt, grime, or cobwebs to ensure proper paint adhesion. Let the windows dry completely before spraying.
For stubborn stains or greasy films, use a degreaser specifically designed for UPVC surfaces.

3rd Step: Masking For Window Spraying

Use a wider painter’s tape to cover the glass completely. Overlap the edges slightly for a secure seal.
Use a thinner tape to mask off any trim, siding, or surfaces you don’t want painted.
Be meticulous with masking, as a clean line will define the final look.
Sanding: For minor imperfections or a very smooth surface, lightly sand the window frames. Wipe away dust with a damp cloth.

4th Step: Priming For Window Spraying

Begin by applying a primer that is specifically suited for surfaces to ensure a smoother paint adhesion.
Evenly spray the frame with the primer and allow it to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

5th Step: Window Spraying Painting Process

Shake well: Begin by thoroughly shaking the paint can for at least two minutes to ensure proper mixing.
Setting up the spray gun: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific spray gun. This will likely involve thinning the paint to the appropriate consistency and adjusting the spray pattern.
Test spraying: Before tackling the windows, practice on a piece of cardboard to get comfortable with the spray gun and ensure even paint application.
Begin spraying with smooth, even strokes, keeping the gun around 8-10 inches away from the surface and maintaining a steady spraying motion.
Apply thin, even coats for optimal coverage. Avoid drenching the surface, as this can lead to drips and runs.
Depending on the desired level of opacity, apply two or three thin coats, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next.
Cleaning the spray gun: Throughout the process, clean the spray gun with mineral spirits according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This prevents clogging and ensures consistent paint flow.

6th Step: Removing Masking Tape

As soon as the final coat is dried, remove all the masking tape and paper carefully from the surrounding areas.
Also ensure that no paint or other residue remains on the work surface.

7th Step: Resealing

After the tape and paper have been removed, you need to re-seal the windows to make them look complete and waterproof.

8th Step: Finishing Touches

Removing masking tape: Carefully peel off the masking tape while the paint is still slightly wet to avoid peeling the paint itself.
Touch-ups: If there are any minor imperfections, use a small brush and touch-up paint to address them.
Let it cure: Allow the paint to dry and cure completely according to the manufacturer’s recommended drying time.

Voila! You’ve successfully sprayed your windows and given them a fresh, good-as-new look.

After this stage, we carry out inspection and amend any necessary spots or areas before inviting you to inspect the finished result. We only consider a job done if you are satisfied.

How To Choose The Perfect Paint For Window Spraying

When choosing paint for window spraying, there are a few key factors to consider:

1. Window Material:

uPVC (unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride): A popular choice for windows, uPVC requires specific paint. Look for water-based acrylic paints specially formulated for uPVC. Avoid oil-based paints, as they can crack and peel.
Aluminium: Just like uPVC, choose a water-based acrylic paint with good adhesion properties. Ensure the paint is compatible with aluminium to avoid any peeling or cracking.
Wood: Here, you have more flexibility. Water-based acrylics are a good choice, but you can also consider oil-based paints. Oil-based paints offer a more durable finish, but require longer drying times and proper ventilation due to stronger fumes.

2. Durability

Exterior window paint needs to withstand harsh weather conditions so choose a paint specifically designed for exterior use. Look for paints with UV resistance to prevent fading and weatherproofing properties to withstand harsh weather conditions. Also ensure it has good moisture resistance to protect windows from rain, snow, and humidity.

3. Finish:

Gloss finishing creates a shiny, reflective finish that’s easy to clean and adds a touch of elegance. However, it can also highlight any imperfections on the window surface.

Satin finishing offers a subtle sheen that provides a good balance between easy cleaning and hiding minor flaws.

Matt finishing provides a low-sheen, almost chalky finish that hides imperfections well but might be slightly more difficult to clean.

4. Colour:

Consider your home’s overall style and existing colours. For a timeless look, neutral colours like white, black, or grey are popular choices. Bold colours can add personality, but ensure they complement your home’s exterior.

Additionally, lighter colours generally reflect heat better and may be suitable for hot climates. Darker colours add drama but can absorb more heat.

5. Brand Reputation:

Invest in a good quality paint from a reputable brand. While cheaper options might exist, they may not offer the same level of durability and could require more frequent repainting.

6. Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound):

Paints with low VOC content are eco-friendly and emit fewer fumes, making them ideal for indoor spraying.

Additional Tips For Window Spraying:

–Get paint samples and test them on a small, inconspicuous area of the window frame to see how the colour looks in natural light.

–Speak to paint professionals at your local hardware store. They can advise on the best paint type and brand for your specific window material and desired finish.

The Spray City Difference in Window Spraying

At Spray City, we are your trusted professionals for flawless window finishes. We offer high-quality spray paints, expert advice, and a team of experienced spray painters to deliver exceptional results.

Also, you can read what our clients have to say on Google or visit our Youtube.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to revive the look of your uPVC, alumunium, or wooden windows, window spraying provides a long-lasting solution that saves you money and time. It’s the perfect option if you’re seeking to refurbish your windows and enhance the overall aesthetic of your property.