Do Your Vinyl Windows Need Refreshing? Learn If You Can Paint Or If Window Replacement Is Necessary

If you ask any homeowner what they would change about their house, you better get ready to sit down. Even homeowners who built their house to their perfect specifications can likely think of one or two things they'd like to do to improve or change their house. If your home has vinyl windows and you don't love the look of them, consider painting them. However, before you tackle this project, make sure to use these tips that window companies want you to know.

Why Paint Vinyl Windows

Although these windows are quite popular, they are typically only available in a few specific colors, which means that some owners have to sacrifice looks for function if they're aiming for a specific decor. Most homeowners think that they're stuck with the color and are surprised to learn that it's possible to get a custom color with some paint and a little bit of effort.

Before you begin, make sure that you choose the right type of paint. Dark colors can absorb too much heat, which could eventually cause problems with vinyl windows. Lighter colors are better choices because they will reflect heat instead of absorbing it. Also, look for a paint that's labeled with a high LRV, known as the light-reflective value. A number higher than 55 will help reflect the light -- and the heat.

If your frames are already dark, it's possible to go lighter without worrying much about the LRV values.

The Painting Process

Now that you've selected your paint, you're ready to get started. First, sand your frames and then thoroughly clean off the dust with a damp rag. After everything is sanded and washed, it's time to prime. Don't skip this step or use a primer that's cheap -- it's vital to ensure that the paint has a surface it can stick to and priming helps this. Give your frames a lot of time to dry and then apply your paint carefully with a good quality paintbrush.

Why Window Companies And Homeowners Love Vinyl

Vinyl windows are incredibly popular and with good reason. They're affordable, durable and they can look great for many, many years. They don't require any regular maintenance and will never rot or split. Couple this with the fact that they're extremely energy efficient and can reduce your home's energy consumption and you have a winning combination that can make your home the haven you'll love for years to come.

If painting isn't the right choice or your windows aren't working properly, it may be time to consider window replacement. Window companies work with homeowners on a daily basis to ensure that they're finding the right kind of window for their home, whether it's vinyl, wood or fiberglass. Before you make the final decision, make sure to meet with a few different window companies to ensure that you're picking the right type for your home -- and your budget.